The German methodology of Katharina Schroth.
Scoliosis or curvature of the spine is a fairly common pathology. Usually, the curvature is to the right and left relative to the axis of the spine. When this happens, the ribs and shoulder blades move to the side, causing health problems.
Scoliosis classifications are numerous. Most often, thoracic and lumbar scoliosis are distinguished. In addition, the form of curvature is indicated: C-shaped, S-shaped and Z-shaped. The severity of scoliosis is determined by the size of the angle of the arc of curvature. The initial manifestations of the disease are amenable to conservative methods of treatment.
A widespread technique in the fight against scoliosis is the treatment in Germany according to the method of Katharina Schroth. Katharina Schroth suffered from scoliosis. According to the remaining photos of Katharina it was noted that the disease was not very pronounced, however, she used her method for the first time on herself, showing significant positive results of gymnastics.
After that, Katharina Schroth started using the technique on patients with severe forms of scoliosis with amazing results. Katarina published her positive results in various scientific journals. The first clinic was opened in 1921.
Katharina Schroth’s clinics are located in many cities, but her main building is in Germany. Today her business is run by her son H.-R. Weisse. The clinic has modern equipment and a highly professional team to carry out the exercises, but the methodology itself has not changed much. Katharina’s son has supplemented the method with the introduction of corset treatment, which, together with traditional exercises, makes it possible to achieve significant results.
The main principle of gymnastics is correct breathing. Scoliosis causes a shift in the axis of the spine, which leads to a shift in the structures of the thorax. This usually leads to a decrease in the intercostal spaces on one side and an increase on the other. This has an effect on the lungs. Where the gaps are reduced, the lung is more constricted, so the air volume is half as much. On the other side the lung volume is greater. Thus, gas exchange is disturbed on both sides, as both smaller and larger respiratory volumes affect the functioning of tissues and cells in the body.
To correct this curvature, Katharina has developed a special breathing technique. It allows you to take more breaths with the receding parts of the chest. The breathing will differ depending on the type, degree and side of the lesion. Special pouches are used for these exercises, which prevent you from inhaling more air than necessary when breathing.
Breathing peculiarities
When familiarizing with this technique, some doubts appear, as it is not clear how one can voluntarily breathe with one half of the lungs?
In order to implement this technology, all classes are conducted according to an individual methodology. The movement of the ribs involves the transverse striated muscles, which are also part of the arm and leg muscles, so it is possible to control their activity to a certain extent. When performing the exercises, the patient lies on the stomach. Before performing controlled breathing, the doctor performs massage movements in the chest area, which is sunken. At this time, the patient focuses his or her attention on this part of the rib cage. Next, the physician places the palm of his hand on the chest area that has fallen and asks the patient to inhale from that area. When the patient begins to do this quite consciously and well, then the practitioner removes his hand and the patient breathes unassisted from the receding part of the chest.
The training involves several stages. First, the lumbar crease is corrected, then the sunken part of the chest and the upper chest.
The exhalation also has its own characteristics:
- The exhalation should be long enough.
- The lips should be half compressed.
During exhalation, the doctor also places a hand or pressure on the part of the chest that needs to be engaged.
In addition to the exercises, the physician fully explains to the patient the specifics of his or her condition prior to exercise. Explanations include anatomical and physiological features, description of axes and disorders in each specific case. Such knowledge allows the patient to understand the essence of training, what is required of him and how to perform the exercises in detail. Without an understanding of the problem and a detailed explanation of the solution, success will be doubtful.
In this method, all exercises are static. They do not form a muscular frame, but affect the problem in all directions and planes.
To perform the exercises successfully, the first thing you need to do is to assume the correct position. This will allow a qualitative effect on the curvature and a better feeling of the necessary muscles. Then exercises are performed to stretch the muscles of the whole body. Exercises will allow you to increase the intercostal spaces, which will facilitate the next stage — the direct performance of breathing, which is described above. The last stage involves active exercises that are performed during exhalation and affect the opposite side of the chest by contracting the intercostal spaces.
All these stages are performed in a hall equipped with mirrors on all sides. This makes it possible to correct inaccuracies at all stages of training. After performing the exercises under the doctor’s supervision, the patient begins to work independently. It is necessary to perform exercises 30 times under your own control and the doctor’s supervision. During training, it is necessary to drink water, since a lot of effort is applied.
The purpose of the exercises is to prevent further development of scoliosis. These exercises do not cure scoliosis, but they can prevent complications.
The purpose of the exercises is to prevent further development of scoliosis. These exercises do not cure scoliosis, but they can prevent complications.
In addition to people with , these exercises should be performed by adults and children without any disorders (children — once a year, adults — once every 2-3 years).
In addition, there are contraindications to the use of such gymnastics:
- Acute infectious diseases.
- Oncology.
- Diseases of the cardiovascular system.
- Osteoporosis.
Performing exercises according to the method of Katharina Schroth leads to tremendous results. The therapeutic effect is even greater when combined with other physical therapy methods.
Make an appointment at a specialized center for scoliosis treatment without surgery.