EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (September 29, 2020) — People who suffer from chronic pain due to scoliosis have a new treatment option in Rhode Island. University Orthopedics’ Stephen Cinquegrana DPT, OCS recently became the only therapist in Rhode Island who is C2 certified in Schroth Therapy.
“As the leader of comprehensive spine care in the region, UOI is committed to providing enhanced outcomes for all patients experiencing acute and chronic pain and injury, including those suffering from scoliosis,” said Alan Daniels, M.D., Chief, Division of Spine at University Orthopedics. “An experienced and skilled physical therapist, Stephen Cinquegrana has always demonstrated a dedication to higher-level care. We are thrilled he is now able to offer this potentially life-changing treatment to UOI patients.”
What is Schroth Therapy?
Schroth Therapy is a non-surgical option for scoliosis treatment consisting of three-dimensional, curve-specific exercise customized for each patient to return the curved spine to a more natural position.
“Schroth has given my patients with postural concerns a means of managing their conditions,” Cinquegrana said. “There is promising research that shows that this technique can improve patients’ pain, healthcare-related quality of life measures, strength, and postural measurements.”
Schroth Therapy has proven effective in helping patients achieve several goals, including:
- Reducing chronic pain associated with scoliosis
- Reducing the progression of spine curvature
- Providing patients with their most optimal posture
- Improving the patient’s breathing capability
- Improving the patient’s self-image and quality of life
- Educating the patient, as well as parents of younger patients, about their condition and giving them tools to manage their condition.
Who is a candidate for Schroth Therapy?
Cinquegrana said Schroth is a viable treatment option for several different populations including children and adolescents with progressive scoliosis; children or adolescents with Scheuermann’s Kyphosis; adults and adolescents in need of post-operative therapy following scoliosis fusion; children, adults, and adolescents who are scheduled for scoliosis fusion and would like to learn more about their condition and prepare for their surgery; as well as adults, adolescents, and children with scoliosis who have pain and/or are concerned with their posture and would like to learn how to improve it and manage their symptoms.
“For children with a progressive scoliosis, Schroth has given my patients and their families tools to better navigate a difficult situation,” Cinquegrana said. “Whether their path ultimately leads to conservative care or surgery, families are better equipped to make decisions and learn about the options that are available to achieve their best outcome.”
What training is required for Schroth therapists?
Physical therapists are required to pass intensive coursework to become certified Schroth Therapists. C2 is currently the highest level of certification offered from the Schroth Barcelona Institute. Certification requires that participants pass a course that has a total of 45 contact hours and an intensive laboratory exam. This requires passing the C1 Certification which has a total of 62 contact hours with a written examination. To qualify for the C2 Certification, students are required to practice Schroth Therapy for a year before being allowed to take the course.