Innovations in Scoliosis Treatment: A Schroth Physical Therapy Success Story

Scoliosis is a condition in which the spine develops an abnormal curve, most commonly diagnosed in adolescents. It affects approximately 3–5% of people worldwide, with many cases first detected during routine school screenings. While not all cases require treatment, moderate to severe scoliosis can progress over time and may eventually require surgery if left unmanaged. Early intervention, the right physician, and a tailored treatment plan are crucial to caring for your child and keeping them active and healthy.

At Seaview Orthopaedics, we are committed to providing innovative treatment options to help our patients maintain an active, pain-free lifestyle. One of these approaches is Schroth Physical Therapy, a specialized form of physical therapy designed to correct and stabilize the spine. We are proud to have Schroth-certified physical therapists at our Ocean, Brick, and Barnegat New Jersey locations, helping patients manage scoliosis effectively.

The Schroth Method uses 3D postural corrections and targeted exercises to improve spinal alignment and reduce the progression of scoliosis. It also aids patients in postural awareness- an essential part in correcting posture and slowing the development of the curve. Studies have shown that patients who combine bracing with Schroth therapy have better outcomes than those who use bracing alone.

Below are x-rays of an adolescent patient of Dr. Christopher Collins, Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon at Seaview Orthopaedics.

• March 2024: Patient was diagnosed with a 25-degree lumbar curve. Dr. Collins prescribed a nighttime brace and recommended Schroth physical therapy to help slow the progression of his scoliosis.
• April–May 2024: Patient attended Schroth therapy at Seaview Orthopaedics twice a week for two months.
• August 2024: After consistent therapy and nightly bracing, his follow-up X-ray showed an improvement to a 16-degree lumbar curve.
• February 2025: By continuing his Schroth exercises at home and wearing the brace nightly, the patient’s lumbar curve further improved to 13 degrees.

Overall, Dr. Collins treatment plan of bracing and Schroth Physical Therapy, reduced the patient’s curve a total of 12 degrees in just one year.

Dr. Christopher Collins, a fellowship-trained pediatric orthopedic surgeon with expertise in spinal deformities and musculoskeletal disorders, brings years of specialized experience in treating scoliosis in children and adolescents. He emphasizes the importance of combining bracing with Schroth therapy for patients with moderate scoliosis:

“In recent years, multiple clinical trials have shown that adolescents who underwent brace treatment combined with Schroth physical therapy experienced less progression of their scoliosis compared to those who used bracing alone.
At Seaview Orthopaedics, we believe Schroth therapy is essential for scoliosis management, especially when the curve has progressed to the point of bracing. That’s why we’ve invested in training many of our physical therapists in Schroth therapy, and we plan to expand access to all of our physical therapy locations in the near future.”

If your child has been diagnosed with scoliosis, Schroth therapy may be a valuable part of their treatment plan. Contact Seaview Orthopaedics at 732-660-6200 or schedule an appointment online with one of our Pediatric Orthopedic Specialists to learn more about your options.