A preliminary report on applying the Schroth method principle after surgical fusion for scoliosis in a 23-year-old female with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a case report

Methods During an evaluation in December 2011, one month after spinal fusion (T10-Pelvic), the patient’s clinical sagittal profile demonstrated a significant forward trunk inclination of 5 cm. Angle of Trunk Rotation (ATR) was 5° in the thoracic and 4° in the lumbar. Quality-of-life score was 3.3 (SRS 22 questionnaire). Body image was 3 (Trunk Appearance Perception Scale (TAPS)). Pain score was 4 using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Force vital capacity (FVC) was 2.1 liters. Chest expansion was 1.9 cm in the subaxillary, 2.2 cm in the nipple line and -2.0 cm around the waist. Positive bilateral Thomas Test for hip flexors and knee extensors. Gluteus maximus and medius strength -4/5 bilateral, quadratus lumbarum -3/5 bilaterally. Decreased abdominal and trunk extensor strength. Singleleg stance was 5 seconds right and 6 seconds left. The physical therapy regimen included modified application of the Schroth exercises for patient with spinal fusion. The patient trained three 1-hour sessions per week for a duration of 10 weeks at an outpatient clinic, and was instructed to apply the learned principles during her daily activities and home exercise program, which consisted of 30-minute sessions five days per week. The patient is currently in treatment.