A multifaceted approach to treating scoliosis.
Southwest General’s Scoliosis Treatment Program is provided through the Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Department. The program uses a multifaceted approach to treatment that enables patients to take charge of their scoliosis.A Team Approach to Individualized Care
Scoliosis treatment is provided by a special team of physical therapists and physical therapist assistants with years of experience in spine, orthopedic and pediatric treatments. Additionally, team members have been trained in a three-dimensional approach to treatment based on the Schroth Method, which has been used successfully in Europe.
Treatment Individually Tailored to Each Patient’s Needs
After an initial evaluation of the patient, a trained scoliosis therapist will develop an individualized plan of care. The recommended treatment, based on the outcome of this evaluation process, will focus on correcting the patient’s posture based on the degree of the patient’s spinal curvature, corrective breathing and muscle strengthening.
Specific treatment techniques include:
- Myofascial Release: A gentle technique that lengthens the connective tissue between the skin, muscles, bones, and blood vessels. With scoliosis, the respiratory diaphragm is often restricted along with the ribs and spine. By releasing the constriction, breathing capacity can be increased and postural alignment changed.
- Kinesiotaping: The application of elastic tape to help patients perform a specific motion, stop an unwanted movement, or maintain a postural correction.
- Biofeedback: Use of a small, non-invasive device that gives the patient auditory or visual feedback about active muscle movement.
- Manual Therapy: Techniques focusing on soft tissue and joint mobility that help to prepare the surrounding muscles, tendons, tissue and joints for postural changes and strengthening.
Benefits of Scoliosis Treatment
For many residents in the Greater Cleveland area, Southwest General’s Scoliosis Treatment Program has resulted in:
- Reduced pain
- Improved cardiopulmonary function
- Improved physical appearance and self image
- Correction of scoliosis posture
- Stabilization of corrected posture
- Improved balance
Insurance Information
A prescription from a physician requesting “Physical Therapy Evaluate and Treat for Scoliosis” is required to take part in the Scoliosis program. An X-ray assessment of the entire spine is often ordered by the physician and is helpful to the therapist. Most major insurance providers cover Scoliosis treatment.