Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Bone Health
Q.
What is The Schroth Method of Three-Dimensional Scoliosis Treatment
A.
The Schroth Method is a specialized physical therapy approach for treating scoliosis, a condition characterized by an abnormal curvature of the spine. Developed by Katharina Schroth in the 1920s, it focuses on correcting spinal alignment and posture through three-dimensional exercises tailored to each individual's curve pattern.
The method incorporates specific breathing techniques, corrective exercises, and postural awareness to help elongate the spine, de-rotate the vertebrae, and stabilize the curvature. It aims to address the asymmetrical muscle imbalances associated with scoliosis and improve overall spinal function and alignment.
The Schroth Method is typically taught by certified practitioners and is often used alongside other treatment modalities such as bracing or surgery, depending on the severity of the scoliosis. It emphasizes active participation from the patient, empowering them to take an active role in managing their condition and improving their quality of life.
Q.
What is scoliosis?
A.
Scoliosis (also called curvature of the spine) is a lateral (sideways) curve to the normally straight vertebrae of the spine. In most cases, the spine is also rotated slightly in the same direction. There are several types of scoliosis: Congenital--caused by a bone abnormality at birth; Neuromuscular--seen in spinabifida and cerebral palsy; Degenerative--from a traumatic injury, surgery or osteoporosis; and the most common, Idiopathic--unknown cause, believed hereditary.
Q.
Who gets scoliosis?
A.
Overall, girls are more likely to be affected than boys. Idiopathic scoliosis is most commonly a condition of adolescence, between 10 to 16 years old. The curve usually progresses during the "growth spurt" years but will not usually progress during adulthood.
Q.
Can physical therapy prevent scoliosis from getting worse?
A.
While physical therapy cannot reverse the curvature of the spine, it can help slow down the progression of scoliosis, improve function, and reduce pain and discomfort.
Q.
How is scoliosis diagnosed?
A.
Most scoliosis curves are found through a screening, either by a pediatrician or in school. Some clues that a child may have scoliosis are uneven shoulders, an uneven waist, one prominent shoulder or leaning to one side. The diagnosis and type of scoliosis are determined by careful examination, and x-rays are taken to evaluate the magnitude of the curve.
Q.
What are the treatments for Scoliosis like?
A.
Traditionally, the treatment for scoliosis has consisted of bracing and surgery. Bracing is recommended for adolescents who have a spinal curve between 25 and 40 degrees, although when the brace is removed, the curve often returns. Surgery is the next step, for those with curves greater than 40 to 50 degrees. Surgery involves fusion of the vertebrae through the use of metal implants.
Q.
How often do I need to attend physical therapy sessions for scoliosis?
A.
The frequency of physical therapy sessions depends on various factors, including the severity of the scoliosis, individual goals, and treatment plan. Typically, sessions may range from once or twice a week to several times per month.
Q.
Does anyone at your clinic specialize in Scoliosis treatment?
A.
Yes, Samana Lake, PT, CYT, dip.MDT specializes in The Schroth Method of Three-Dimensional Scoliosis Treatment. She incorporates her training, pilates, reformer work, and yoga into her specialized treatments. The combination of specialized exercise, breathwork, and core strengthening will create postural awareness to help elongate the spine, de-rotate the vertebrae, and stabilize the curvature of the spine. Call today to schedule 585-482-5060
Q.
What is osteoporosis?
A.
Osteoporosis is the breakdown of bone tissue which causes bones to become weak and brittle. Bone breakdown is a normal body function, and it is typically replaced at a steady rate that matches the breakdown process. As we age, bone breakdown can exceed bone replacement causing these bones to become weak since they are not being replaced as quickly as they are being broken down. This can increase the risk for fractures in common areas, including the spine, hip, and wrist. Twisting and bending forward can increase the risk for fractures with osteoporosis and are movements that should be avoided. A healthy diet, medications, and weight-bearing exercise are all ways to improve bone strength and prevent breakdown.
Q.
How can exercise improve osteoporosis?
A.
Strength training, especially with weight-bearing exercise, is one of the most beneficial ways to strengthen your bones and decrease the risk of fractures with osteoporosis. Weight-bearing exercise is any exercise where you are putting weight through the bones. For example, weight-bearing exercises for the legs can be squats, whereas weight-bearing exercises for the arms would be push-ups, planks, etc. Balance exercises and exercises that improve posture are equally crucial to those with an Osteoporosis diagnosis. A fall risk can cause a severe fracture or break of the bone. Here at Wellness 360 we have classes tailored for osteoporosis. Check out the webpage for more information: https://www.wellness360fitness.com/osteoporosis
A.
Multiple movements should be avoided with an osteoporosis diagnosis. Those movements include forward bending and big rotational motions. Any type of core exercise like crunches, should be avoided. These exercises can put your bones at a greater risk of fracture. Keeping with neutral spine exercises is the best to provide stability to your spine and decrease the risk of fracture Any balancing exercise should be done with caution to avoid falls.
Q.
Is all types of exercise good for your bone health?
A.
No, unfortunately, riding your bike and swimming does not have any effect on building one density. The only thing that has been shown to improve bone density is a weight-bearing exercise, including resistance bands, dumbbells, and body weight.
Q.
Is exercise all I have to do to keep my bones healthy?
A.
Exercise is only part of keeping your bones healthy and building bone density. It takes a balance of appropriate exercise, diet, and healthy lifestyle modifications. For appropriate diet modifications, please click here. Lifestyle modifications include, but are not limited to, decreasing your alcohol and caffeine intake, decreasing your stress level, and quitting smoking.
Q.
What does my DEXA-scan mean?
A.
A Dexascan is a medical imaging tool for measuring your bone density. Typical places to lose bone density are your spine, hips, and wrist. You can have an Osteoporosis diagnosis in one part of the body and not the other. For example, you can have a -2.5 in your right hip but -1.0 in your Left hip. There are two types of scores, a T-score and a Z-score. A T-score compares your bone density to the bone density of a healthy young adult of the same sex. A Z-Score measures the amount of bone a person has, compared with others of the same size, age, and sex.
Here is what your T-score means.
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A T-score of -1.0 or higher is normal bone density.
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A T-score of -1.1 to -2.4 indicates osteopenia or low bone density.
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A T-score of -2.5 or lower indicates osteoporosis.
Q.
Should I receive PT for my bone health?
A.
Yes, physical therapy is a great way to improve your functional strength, posture and decrease fall risk. Starting with Physical therapy will ensure you complete the appropriate exercises based on your individualized needs.