Schroth Best Practice®
Schroth Best Practice® (SBP) is an evolution of the original Schroth method, developed by Dr. Hans-Rudolf Weiss, the grandson of Katharina Schroth. At the time, he was the director of the Katharina Schroth Clinic in Bad Sobernheim. His goal with this advancement was to simplify scoliosis treatment for patients—reducing the reliance on equipment while making the approach more efficient and time-saving.
To provide specialized physiotherapy for scoliosis, it is essential to classify the patient’s scoliosis. We use the Augmented Lehnert-Schroth classification, which is internationally recognized.
A core element of the SBP approach is patient education—understanding scoliosis classification, posture, and pain management. The goal is to empower patients to become self-reliant and eventually independent of the treatment system.
The second key element is integration into daily life. The more posture corrections and exercises can be incorporated into everyday activities, the easier it is to maintain results. Adopting new habits in standing, sitting, and lying down, as well as gait rehabilitation, are crucial parts of the SBP method.
The third element is maximal correction during Schroth exercises, with a reduced number of exercises in the program. Over time, the original Schroth method had become quite complex and difficult to replicate and maintain at home.
By incorporating all these elements into the patient-centered approach, the treatment becomes more effective and less time-consuming. SBP is currently one of the most effective methods for treating scoliosis. In research articles and presentations, you may also come across the term PSSR—Pattern Specific Scoliosis Rehabilitation—which refers to this type of specialized scoliosis treatment.
The first research articles on the effectiveness of Schroth Best Practice were published in 2006. In 2015, the first Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) on the method was published by Tugba Kuru from Turkey. Other publications are available on PubMed, including those by Borysov (2012), Lee (2014), and Dr. Weiss.
With Best Practice, the Schroth method is made simpler, more accessible, yet still highly effective and results-oriented. The concept emphasizes making the method an integrated part of daily life.
Key elements of the method include:
- Corrected everyday postures based on classification, with mobilization exercises tailored to daily situations.
- All Schroth exercises are performed with maximum correction (end-range) in all three anatomical planes.
- Exercises are asymmetrical, three-dimensional, corrective, and stabilizing.
- All exercises are performed standing or sitting to engage postural muscles.
- Schroth-specific breathing (RAB – Rotational Angular Breathing) is a critical element for training effectiveness.
- Training can be done at home, integrated into regular fitness routines, or in small groups with specialized physiotherapists.
- It is essential that a specialized physiotherapist guides the scoliosis training, as exercises vary significantly depending on the classification—and it’s important to address all spinal curves and planes.