I am certified through the Schroth-Barcelona Institute and Isico (the SEAS method) to manage and treat spinal deformities (scoliosis and kyphosis). Yes, I treat kyphosis too!
The Schroth Method is a three-dimensional non-surgical treatment using scoliosis-specific exercises based on your curve pattern. This method also addresses sagittal plane disorders such as kyphosis. The Schroth Method includes manual and auto correction of spinal curves through elongation of the spine and expansion of the trunk from the inside out. The emphasis in treatment is to teach you how to expand your concavities (“weak side” or “weak point”) and reduce your prominences through breath, body awareness and stabilization strategies. The goal is for you to learn how to integrate your optimal corrected posture into your daily life.
The SEAS method stands for “Scientific Exercises Approach to Scoliosis”. The principles of SEAS are based on a specific form of auto-correction (termed active self-correction) that is customized for each person. Once a client learns their unique way of self correcting, we incorporate stabilizing exercises, neuromotor control and proprioceptive training balance. The exercises are also incorporated into daily living activities. The SEAS approach is also characterized by a cognitive-behavioural approach towards the patient and his family to maximize compliance to treatment.
While adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and adult-onset scoliosis are entirely different, both approaches can help to manage both conditions. The Schroth Method uses props and scoliosis specific exercises to activate and engage muscles that may have become inefficient through deformity. The SEAS method is less about props and more about holding a correction with movement. Both have their advantages. Both approaches can be quite effective in managing pain, reducing dysfunction, and preventing surgery in many cases.