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What is SSOL Schroth?

SSOL Schroth was founded by Dr. Hagit Berdishevsky and Andrea Lebel, two of the most prominent world experts in the conservative management of scoliosis and spinal asymmetries.  Dr. Berdishevsky and Ms. Lebel received direct, personal training from Christa L. Schroth as well as Dr. Manuel Rigo and were personally appointed by Dr. Rigo as teachers of his method. For nearly a decade they continued in depth study, practice and teaching both independently, and alongside Dr. Rigo as International Teachers with BSPTS.

In 2021, Dr. Berdishevsky and Ms. Lebel saw a need to make the information in this life changing approach to spine health accessible to more health professionals.  While the material remains solidly founded in the original principles of Schroth, the SSOL Schroth Method has evolved as research and knowledge in the field have evolved, and strives to provide the highest quality education that is as practical, as it is engaging, and as personal as it is global. The SSOL Schroth Method features:

• A comprehensive, online introduction to scoliosis and spinal pathologies. The Foundations Course, while serving as an introduction to the science and field of human spinal asymmetry, sets the foundation for understanding and working with patients with spinal pathology. This comprehensive foundational program is divided into 8 modules, each one approximately 3 hours in length and can be completed anytime and anywhere. Each module focuses on a specific aspect in the science of scoliosis and spinal conditions, including etiology, pathogenesis, pathomechanism, progression factors, as well as educating students on optimal performance of clinical and radiological assessment techniques. The foundational course also introduces students to strategies and key considerations when working with the adult with spinal imbalances, and addresses modifications for sport and activities of daily living, as well as an overview of bracing and surgery.

• Successful completion of the Online Foundational Course prepares the student for Practical Part 1 and Practical Part 2, which are the live, in-person, and hands-on courses during which exercises and skills are learned in even greater detail and perfected. 

• SSOL Schroth is proud to offer P1 and P2 to Physical Therapists as well as Physical Therapy Assistants for certification. This offering to PTAs is novel, as previously, such courses have only been available to PTs. Students attending P1 and P2 are required to pass a written and practical examination to be eligible for certification.

• SSOL Schroth believes the beauty is in the details. Scoliosis and spinal asymmetries are delicate and detailed in nature, and thus require thoughtful, detailed approach in evaluation and treatment. Our teachers are passionate about ensuring students’ skills are perfected to help them achieve the best outcomes possible and inspire confidence and clarity in their work.

• SSOL Schroth courses are advanced-level education that thoughtfully address the comprehensive biopsychosocial needs of patients presenting with all spinal conditions, with a particular focus on scoliosis and sagittal plane conditions.
• manual therapy techniques specific to the patient with spinal asymmetry
• education on the care and management of adults with spinal pathology

  SSOL Schroth Practical 1 (P1) focuses on Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) while Practical 2 (P2) expands on foundational material to include:

  • education on post-operative care and current protocols
  • hands on experience to refine and perfect evaluation and treatment skills with real patients every day of this advanced course.
  • SSOL Schroth includes a robust and personal mentorship program following each certification course training. This mentorship is a key element to facilitate and expand therapists’ understanding and mastery of the beautiful, but complex nature of scoliosis. The first 1-5 years of clinical practice are a time of significant growth for the new therapist, and we want our therapists to be the BEST, so that they enjoy their work, and their patients enjoy the most successful outcomes possible.
  • SSOL Schroth provides a 24/7 online platform to facilitate and enhance learning opportunities with other global world leaders in this field on topics that provide a comprehensive approach to education of spinal conditions. Webinars are both live and on-demand, and address current concepts in topics such as bracing, current surgical techniques, hip and shoulder issues in scoliosis, yoga and Pilates adaptation for people with scoliosis, in-depth radiological assessment and analysis, conditions such as pectus excavatum, sway-back, thoracolumbar kyphosis, early onset scoliosis, psychological support and more.
  • Therapists who successfully complete SSOL Schroth Certification are included on an international online directory for potential clients to find and connect with certified therapists. This is one of the best ways for patients to find you!
  • SSOL Schroth encourages a truly collaborative approach in the care and treatment for patients in the field of spinal pathology, scoliosis and postural imbalances and has cultivated a global community to optimize success in this exciting and important field.

P1 (Practical 1) Course Description and Objectives

Prerequisites:

• Successful completion SSOL-Schroth Online Foundations Course, (24 contact hours) and obtaining the Certificate of Completion.
• Licensed Physical Therapist or Physical Therapy Assistant.

Description:

P1 and P2 are the practical, in-person and hands-on component of SSOL Schroth Certification courses. These live practical courses give students the opportunity to learn and practice the Principles of Correction and PSSE (Physiotherapeutic Scoliosis Specific Exercise) according to the original Schroth Method and guided by the experience and most up-to-date evidenced-based research. PSSE emphasizes exercises that address the 3D nature of spinal imbalances, with different modifications for different curve patterns to promote the most 3D balanced posture possible for optimal sensorimotor, kinesthetic and neutral spine core stability as well as diaphragmatic function. The goals of PSSE are numerous, and include, but are not limited to: 

• Stabilizing a scoliosis or hyperkyphosis and reducing risk of curve progression
• Improving neutral spine core stability 
• Improving respiratory function
• Improving independence with ADLs
• Reducing pain 
• Improving fluid and stable movement via optimizing 3D postural balance and joint congruency 
• Improving knowledge base of both the practitioner and the patient to empower safe and independent participation in recreational exercise and appropriate modifications with respect to the patient’s unique curve pattern
• Improving knowledge base of the practitioner to be able to offer appropriate resources to the patient with spinal pathology (bracing, surgical consult, psychological)

P1 is a total of 6 days (48 live contact hours) and unravels the complexity of scoliosis and spinal imbalances via detailed, evidenced based information to help therapists appreciate and optimally address the 3 dimensional nature of these conditions.  Therapists learn how to recognize, assess, and treat patients of all curve patterns. Additionally, therapists learn comprehensive radiological evaluation and are introduced to other professionals (orthotists, psychologists, spine surgeons) to best understand the complete and unique biopsychosocial needs of each patient.

Course format includes lectures, labs, and live patient demonstration.  Day 6 includes a written examination, with a passing score required for P1 certification. Following P1 certification, therapists must practice theory and exercise for a minimum of 1 year before applying for P2. In order to maintain SSOL Schroth certification, therapists must successfully complete P2 certification course within 1-3 years of completing P1. 

P1 Course Objectives: 

By the end of this course the student will be able to:

• Describe the 3D Principles of Correction as originally developed by K Schroth.
• Apply Principles of Correction to treat scoliosis and kyphosis in accordance with Physiotherapy Scoliosis Specific Exercise (PSSE)  guidelines set by SOSORT (The International Society on Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment).
• Define correction strategies for each specific scoliosis and kyphosis case type in all treatment positions.
• Develop a treatment plan based on clinical and radiological patient profiles.
• Treat patients using 3D correction principles appropriate for each case type.
• Educate patients and families on optimal 3D spinal mechanics during ADLs to minimize risk of curve progression and promote optimal spine health in ADLs and  recreational exercise choices. 
• Educate patients and families on how PSSE differs in its treatment approach than traditional physical therapy. 
• Perform radiological and clinical assessments on patients with spinal asymmetries for correct curve classification.
• Demonstrate appropriate tactile and verbal cueing with patients when performing PSSE related assessments and treatment.
• Develop a collaborative team approach for patients with spinal asymmetries that includes the referring physician and/or surgeon, the patient/family, and if appropriate, orthotist and/or psychologist.
• Describe the biopsychosocial qualities and needs of this unique patient population.

P2 (Practical 2) Course Description and Objectives

Description:

P2 advances the knowledge, techniques, and skills as introduced in Practical 1 (P1). While P1 focuses on the Principles of Correction as related to AIS (Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis), P2 expands on application and mastery of the PSSE (Physiotherapeutic Scoliosis Specific Exercise) therapist’s skills in treating patients of all ages, with specific emphasis on the adult population and small group classes.  P2 also addresses current concepts in bracing as well as surgical strategies and post operative protocols.  One of the key goals of P2 is refining and excelling student’s confidence in their ability to accurately and effectively conduct clinical and radiological evaluation and treatments for the patient with scoliosis, hyperkyphosis, or other 3D spinal asymmetry.  

Course format includes lectures, student labs for evaluation and exercise, and live patient demonstration. On the final day, participants will perform a practical certification exam in order to obtain P2 certification. All participating physical therapists and physical therapy assistants are required to abide by SSOL Schroth practice ethics and must sign an Ethics of Practice Agreement when applying to P2. 

Prerequisites:

Applications are required for P2 participation.  This is an in-person, live course. 

If you are already P2 certified in SSOL-Schroth and would like to attend as an observer (course audit), please inquire directly with the course instructor to learn if virtual or in person audits are available. You may view the calendar of events here 

P2 is open to licensed physical therapists and physical therapy assistants who have successfully completed SSOL-Schroth P1 (Practical 1) course within the past 1-3 years, and have a minimum of 1 year of clinical practice treating clients with PSSE as taught in the SSOL Schroth Method.  P2 requires students to present a case study during the live course.  Case study presentations must be submitted no less than 30 days prior to the course. Please refer to P2 Case Review Guidelines for more details. 

P2 Course Objectives

By the end of P2, the student will be able to: 

• Demonstrate confidence and competency in performing clinical and radiological evaluations and curve classification specific to the patient with scoliosis or spinal asymmetry and complex cases of spinal pathology.
• Effectively apply SSOL Schroth principles with respect to the biopsychosocial features of juveniles, adolescents, and adults with scoliosis and spinal pathologies.
• Demonstrate appropriate and effective tactile and verbal cueing with patients when performing 3-D principles of correction according to the original principles as taught by Katharina and Christa Schroth, and Dr. Manuel Rigo. 
• Describe the goals and features of PSSE group classes to effectively conduct PSSE group classes. 
• Describe the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to the conservative management of scoliosis, appropriate team members and scope of practice. 
• Advance clinical skills, treatment strategies, and patient/family education according to current evidenced-based research and SOSORT updates.
• Develop appropriate and effective PSSE treatment plans and goals based on the unique biospsychosocial needs of each patient. 
• Describe the role of physical therapy with respect to bracing for scoliosis, Scheuermann’s Kyphosis, and osteoporosis.
• Demonstrate and describe PSSE modifications for post-operative care.
• Professionally present a case study specific to PSSE, integrating the exercises, education, and principles as taught in SSOL Schroth and PSSE. 

What Students Are Saying

“This course has inspired the rest of my life and has set the wheels in motion for what I want in life and practice. I would highly recommend this course to anyone who is interested in improving their treatment techniques and wants to provide the best outcomes for their patients.”

Christine Martin, PT, DPT, OCS
Fort Myers, Florida

“Thank you, Meredith for an amazing week! I had a huge slice of humble pie while expanding my skills in the assessment and treatment of scoliosis and spine conditions. Proud to be part of the SSOL Global community and can’t wait to keep expanding, lengthening and growing tall!”

Cassie Chonko, PT, DPT, OCS
Austin, Texas

“This course exceeded my expectations. I loved the thorough nature of the concepts and foundational explanations. Meredith was inspiring, thoughtful, enthusiastic, vibrant, and she allowed space to learn.”

Lena Ebron, PT, DPT
Atlanta, Georgia

“I came to this course looking for ways to use Schroth to help my current ortho patients improve even more. Those goals were definitely met. Meredith is incredible at taking very complicated and abundant information and making it as concise as possible. This course has inspired me to further my knowledge and ability to help patients to the next level!”

Kristen Hicks, PT, MPT
Richmond, Virginia

“Meredith explains difficult concepts in a way that makes it very easy to digest. If it’s not understood initially, she is able to explain in multiple different ways so that it will click! This course helped to refine scoliosis concepts and treatment so that I can better understand why I am selecting certain interventions for one curve type and not the other…. It confirmed how life-changing 3 dimensional work is for our patients with scoliosis. It is truly remarkable and I can’t wait to apply all that I’ve learned!

Meghan Teed, PT, DPT
South Carolina

“Best learning I have had since PT school. I would love to have Meredith teach P2 because I can understand her multimodal education.

Christine Martin, PT, DPT, OCS
Fort Myers, Florida