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Writer's pictureMOVE PHYSIO TEAM

ISST Schroth Method: A Comprehensive Approach to Scoliosis Care

Updated: Oct 24


Scoliosis, a complex spinal condition, demands a holistic and proactive approach to treatment. The International Schroth 3-dimensional scoliosis treatment (ISST) represents a remarkable paradigm shift in managing scoliosis.


In this post, we'll explore the fundamental elements of ISST training according to Asklepios – Katharina Schroth, its core principles, goals, and the compelling results that support its efficacy. Let's embark on a journey to understand how ISST empowers scoliosis patients.



Key Elements of ISST Training


Empowering scoliosis patients begins with knowledge. Understanding the condition and its risks enables individuals to develop proactive coping strategies. Information includes calculating the risk of progression, even for children with mild scoliosis (<25° Cobb). Early intervention is essential to interrupt the cycle of progression.


The backbone of ISST is a team of trained and experienced experts, including physical therapists (PTs) and physicians. They possess in-depth knowledge of radiological and clinical assessment, the pathomechanism of scoliosis, documentation, and scoliosis management. Building trustful patient-therapist relationships is crucial. A standardized teaching process leads to individualized therapy plans and follow-up evaluations.



ISST focuses on specific scoliosis treatment, often individualized for out-patient care by certified Schroth therapists or group sessions at clinics like MOVE PHYSIO. The primary goal is deceleration or prevention of progression to avoid bracing or surgery. Treatment includes teaching scoliosis-specific exercises and breathing techniques following Schroth Posture Variations. Patients are empowered to continue exercises at home, promoting postural changes in daily activities. Therapy intensity is tailored to individual exercise capacity and risk of progression.


ISST aims to achieve several critical objectives, including avoidance of surgery, deceleration or prevention of progression, stabilization of spinal corrections in three dimensions, increased chest mobility and respiratory function, trunk symmetry for cosmetic improvements, postural awareness, and pain relief.


The home exercise program (HEP) plays a pivotal role in achieving these goals, allowing patients to take control of their progress.


Core Principles and Techniques

ISST employs specific principles and techniques:


- Positioning: Passive corrections for each Schroth "Body Block" up to structural limits.

- Corrective Breathing: Mobilization of concavities by intrinsic forces.

- In-brace exercises: Improving the starting position for Schroth home-exercise programs.

- Specific Mobilization: Focusing on apical segments of curves or soft tissues within concavities.

- 3D Exercises: Striving for three-dimensional corrections.

- Home Exercise Program: Vital for affecting activities of daily living and prolonging correction effects.




ISST Schroth Results: Evidence-Based Success


ISST Schroth therapy boasts an impressive body of research supporting its efficacy. Multiple studies have demonstrated its positive impact, including:

- Reduction in curve progression.

- Improved quality of life and muscle endurance.

- Enhanced cosmetic outcomes.

- Pain relief.

- Increased respiratory function.

- Long-term postural changes.


ISST Schroth Method represents a transformational approach to scoliosis care. It's about giving patients the tools they need to take control. If you or a loved one are facing the challenges of scoliosis, remember that you don't have to walk this path alone. The ISST Schroth Method offers hope, empowerment, and the promise of a better tomorrow. To make the most of this transformative approach, it's crucial to seek care from certified Schroth therapists who truly understand the method.


At MOVE PHYSIO's Linear - Scoliosis Program, we take pride in being your trusted partners on this journey. Our team of Certified Schroth therapists is here to support you every step of the way. Discover the power of ISST Schroth Method and take control of your scoliosis journey.

Contact us today to embark on a path to greater stability and well-being. Your future begins now, and we're here to walk it with you.

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