Proven Techniques to Improve Scoliosis: An Evidence-Based Approach

Evidence-Based Practice to Improve Scoliosis
Physiotherapeutic Scoliosis-Specific Exercise (PSSE)

Understanding Scoliosis: Beyond the Curve

Scoliosis is more than just a curve in the spine—it’s a condition that can reshape lives, affecting posture, mobility, and self-confidence. With its characteristic lateral spinal curvature, scoliosis often appears during the rapid growth of adolescence, a time when early detection and treatment are crucial. While bracing and surgical interventions have long dominated the conversation, a new wave of evidence-based physiotherapy is transforming how we manage scoliosis. But how do these therapies work, and what does the science say about their effectiveness?

This article dives into the realm of Physiotherapeutic Scoliosis-Specific Exercises (PSSE), a cutting-edge approach that’s offering hope for those living with scoliosis.

The Prevalence of Scoliosis

The International Society on Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment (SOSORT) estimates that the global incidence of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) in the pediatric population ranges from 0.93% to 12% (Negrini, 2018). With such a wide prevalence range, early diagnosis and effective intervention become imperative.

What is PSSE?

Physiotherapeutic Scoliosis-Specific Exercises (PSSE) encompass a range of methodologies designed to address scoliosis non-surgically. Popular approaches include Schroth, Scientific Exercise Approach to Scoliosis (SEAS), and Barcelona Scoliosis Physical Therapy School (BSPTS). These methodologies share several common goals:

• Correcting spinal misalignment in three planes.
• Enhancing stability and balance.
• Incorporating breathing techniques to optimize lung function.
• Promoting posture awareness and long-term spinal health.

Effectiveness of PSSE

Statistical evidence suggests that PSSE can lead to significant improvements in scoliosis outcomes. For instance, studies have demonstrated statistically significant reductions in Cobb angle—a key measure of scoliosis severity—when PSSE methods are employed (Kuru, 2016).

Importantly, PSSE physiotherapy is highly individualized. Exercises are tailored to the specific type and severity of scoliosis, and their success hinges on the expertise of professionally trained instructors.

Spotlight on Schroth: The Most Studied Method

Among the PSSE methodologies, the Schroth method has garnered the most attention in scientific research. This approach not only stabilizes spinal deformities but also enhances the patient’s quality of life (Seleviciene, 2022). While other methodologies like SEAS and BSPTS also stabilize and occasionally reduce the Cobb angle, only Schroth has been proven to significantly reduce the angle of trunk rotation.

The Role of Bracing in Scoliosis Management

Bracing remains a cornerstone of scoliosis treatment. Full compliance with in-brace correction (IBC) often yields superior outcomes. However, recent studies highlight the synergistic effects of combining bracing with PSSE. For instance, one study found that a combination of bracing and PSSE prevented progression greater than 5˚ in 88.5% of patients (Karavidas, 2022).

The Takeaway

For patients and healthcare providers, the evolving landscape of scoliosis treatment offers renewed hope. Evidence shows that PSSE, particularly when paired with bracing, is an effective, non-invasive option for managing adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. As research continues to refine these techniques, the path to straighter spines and improved quality of life becomes clearer.

Conclusion

Scoliosis should be treated as early as possible to prevent further deterioration and improve overall quality of life. Our expert physiotherapists specialize in utilizing the evidence-based Schroth method. However, due to the nature of scoliosis, which varies greatly in type and severity.

Therefore, in maximizing the effectiveness of this method, it is crucial to seek guidance from experienced professionals who can customize the exercises for your unique requirements. Our team is here to provide the expertise you need to achieve optimal results.

Your CARE IS OUR PROMISE!

Reference:

Negrini S., Donzelli S., Aulisa A.G., Czaprowski D., Schreiber S., De Mauroy J.C., Diers H., Grivas T.B., Knott P., Kotwicki T., et al. 2016 SOSORT Guidelines: Orthopaedic and rehabilitation treatment of idiopathic scoliosis during growth. Scoliosis Spinal Disord. 2018;13:3. doi: 10.1186/s13013-017-0145-8.

Kuru T, Yeldan I, Dereli EE, Ozdincler AR, Dikici F, Colak I. The efficacy of three-dimensional Schroth exercises in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a randomised controlled clinical trial. Clin Rehabil. 2016;30(2):181-90.

Seleviciene V, Cesnaviciute A, Strukcinskiene B, Marcinowicz L, Strazdiene N, Genowska A. Physiotherapeutic Scoliosis-Specific Exercise Methodologies Used for Conservative Treatment of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis, and Their Effectiveness: An Extended Literature Review of Current Research and Practice. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022 Jul 28;19(15):9240. doi: 10.3390/ijerph19159240. PMID: 35954620; PMCID: PMC9368145.

Karavidas, N., Tzatzaliaris, D. Brace and Physiotherapeutic Scoliosis Specific Exercises (PSSE) for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) treatment: a prospective study following Scoliosis Research Society (SRS) criteria. Arch Physiother 12, 22 (2022).