U.S. Schroth Method Expert Speaks on Non Surgical Scoliosis Treatment
Boston, MA (PRWEB) February 12, 2015 -- Dr. Moramarco discussed the goals of three-dimensional treatment for scoliosis according to the newest Schroth Method protocols at the XIX Russian National Congress of “People and Health,” in St. Petersburg, Russia on orthopedics, rehabilitation and prosthetics. Goals of Schroth methodology include improving spinal function, vital capacity and postural appearance, educating and empowering the scoliotic patient, and decreasing pain – if present. Dr. Moramarco also presented the growing evidence in support of scoliosis bracing–specifically the benefits of asymmetric bracing, and of scoliosis-specific exercise as a treatment option for adolescents and adults. Components of the multi-faceted, Schroth Best Practice program® were highlighted. The program includes add-ons to the ‘original Schroth method’ exercises for the sagittal (side-view) plane. These new exercises promote mobilization of the spine and concur with recent evidence (van Loon et al. 2008) which shows that correction forces initiated in the sagittal plane help promote improvement of scoliosis in the frontal plane.
Dr. Moramarco also reviewed new Level I evidence regarding the efficacy of scoliosis rehabilitation therapy from a randomized control study validating the use of self-correction (Monticone et al. 2014). Three-dimensional self-correction is an essential element of Schroth Best Practice® scoliosis exercises. This approach helps promote pelvic recompensation, addresses thoracic and lumbar rib prominences and helps restore the sagittal profile. Dr. Moramarco became the first U.S. physician to be certified in the original Schroth Method, 2007, and is currently the only U.S. Schroth Best Practice® Advanced Instructor.
The presentation highlighted recent evidence on the efficacy of scoliosis bracing, including the benefits of asymmetric (Cheneau) braces versus symmetric braces. The latter, which includes the widely used Boston Brace, have been found to be ‘satisfactory’ at halting curve progression. In contrast, the Chêneau-Gensingen® brace raises the bar when it comes to scoliosis bracing because the asymmetric brace attempts to improve curvature and postural appearance via overcorrection. The scoliosis brace, created by Dr. Hans-Rudolf Weiss (grandson of Schroth Method originator, Katharina Schroth), has a high rate of success, is Schroth compatible, addresses the sagittal profile, and is front-closing and lighter weight for improved comfort and independence. The brace has strategically placed voids which allow for corrective rotational breathing. In the U.S., Dr. Moramarco is the exclusive provider of the Chêneau-Gensingen® brace.
While abroad, Dr. Moramarco also spent four days in Germany, working with Dr. Weiss, and meeting with Christa Lehnert-Schroth, PT, author of Three-Dimensional Treatment for Scoliosis. The three discussed the upcoming publication of Schroth Therapy: Advancements in Conservative Scoliosis Treatment, a book the three spent the past year collaborating on. This new Schroth Method book is an updated guidebook for professionals about the cutting-edge Schroth developments by Weiss. These updated protocols use fewer props than the original Schroth exercises which results in easier learning. Drs. Moramarco and Weiss also assessed 3D scanning systems to be utilized in brace measurement for use with the CAD/CAM system used to custom-design each Gensingen brace®.
Dr. Marc Moramarco, Scoliosis 3DC, http://www.scoliosis3dc.com, +1 781-938-8558, [email protected]
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