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Schroth Method for Scoliosis Treatment in Bergen County, NJ

Safe, Proven & Non-Surgical
Discover the Schroth Method for scoliosis treatment in Closter, Park Ridge, and Montvale, NJ. The Spine & Health Center of New Jersey offers personalized, non-surgical scoliosis therapy led by certified Schroth practitioners.
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What Is the Schroth Method?

The Schroth Method is a specialized, evidence-based physical therapy approach designed to treat scoliosis without surgery. Developed by Katharina Schroth in Germany in the early 1900s, this method focuses on correcting spinal curvature through three-dimensional exercises that address rotation, alignment, and posture.

Unlike traditional exercise programs, the Schroth Method is tailored to each patient’s specific spinal curve pattern. It combines breathing techniques, muscle activation, and postural correction to help re-align the spine and improve overall function.

At The Spine & Health Center of New Jersey, Schroth therapy is directed by James Gamrat, PT, DPT, BSPTS Ll, a certified Schroth practitioner trained through the Barcelona Scoliosis Physical Therapy School (BSPTS). Under his guidance, patients receive personalized, movement-based care designed to restore balance, reduce pain, and improve quality of life.

We proudly provide Schroth-based scoliosis care in our Park Ridge, Closter, and Montvale locations, serving patients across Bergen County, NJ.

How the Schroth Method Works

The Schroth Method uses Physiotherapeutic Scoliosis-Specific Exercises (PSSE) that retrain the body to move and function with improved symmetry. These exercises help:

  • De-rotate The spine to correct curvature and imbalance.
  • Lengthen and Stabilize The spine to restore alignment.
  • Improve Ribcage Mobility And breathing function.
  • Rebuild Neuromuscular Control Through posture retraining.
Each session involves a customized combination of stretching, strengthening, and rotational breathing to target the unique curve of your spine. The result is improved alignment, reduced discomfort, and greater confidence in daily movement.

What Is PSSE (Physiotherapeutic Scoliosis-Specific Exercise)?

PSSE is the foundation of Schroth therapy—a series of exercises customized to your spinal curve, age, and mobility. These movements teach your body how to actively correct posture and maintain spinal balance throughout your daily life.

This approach is non-invasive, low-impact, and appropriate for all age groups—from children and teens with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis to adults managing degenerative or postural scoliosis.

What Are the Goals of Schroth Treatment?

The primary goals of Schroth therapy include:

  • Improving postural alignment and control
  • Reducing spinal curvature progression
  • Enhancing core and spinal strength
  • Relieving pain and tension
  • Increasing lung capacity and ribcage mobility
  • Teaching long-term self-correction strategies
Patients learn to integrate corrective postures and breathing techniques into everyday activities—sitting, standing, sleeping, and even exercising—to support lasting improvements.

Who Can Benefit from the Schroth Method?

Schroth therapy can help children, adolescents, and adults with:

  • Idiopathic scoliosis (most common in teens during growth spurts)
  • Degenerative or adult-onset scoliosis
  • Congenital scoliosis
  • Postural imbalances
  • Post-surgical rehabilitation for spinal fusion or instrumentation

It’s especially beneficial for individuals looking to avoid or delay surgery and for those seeking natural, movement-based ways to manage spinal alignment.

Benefits of the Schroth Method

Greater Confidence and Quality of Life

Improved mobility, alignment, and body awareness help patients feel stronger and more confident in daily life.

Improved Spinal Alignment

Three-dimensional exercises address the root cause of curvature to promote symmetry and balance.

Reduced Pain and Fatigue

Targeted muscle activation reduces tension and stiffness, making movement easier and more comfortable.

Non-Surgical Scoliosis Management

Provides a safe, conservative alternative to surgery by using corrective exercises and postural retraining.

Long-Term Postural Control

Patients learn self-correction strategies to maintain results and prevent curve progression.

Enhanced Breathing and Rib Mobility

Rotational breathing expands the chest wall and improves lung function.

Meet Our Schroth-Certified Specialist

James Gamrat, PT, DPT, BSPTS Ll, is a certified Schroth therapist through the Barcelona Scoliosis Physical Therapy School (BSPTS). He has advanced training in the Rigo Concept, a modern evolution of the Schroth Method developed by Dr. Manuel Rigo.

Through this program, James provides highly individualized care that considers:
  • Curve type and stage of progression
  • Skeletal maturity and growth potential
  • Pain levels, flexibility, and activity goals

His compassionate, patient-first approach empowers individuals to actively participate in their recovery—combining hands-on therapy, movement training, and education for lasting results.

Why Choose The Spine & Health Center of New Jersey?

At The Spine & Health Center of NJ, our scoliosis specialists integrate the Schroth Method into comprehensive care plans that may also include physical therapy, chiropractic care, and sports performance training.

What Sets Us Apart:
  • Certified BSPTS-trained Schroth therapist (James Gamrat, PT, DPT, BSPTS Ll)
  • Individualized, curve-specific scoliosis exercise programs
  • Non-surgical, evidence-based care focused on function and alignment
  • Integration with advanced rehabilitation services for total support
  • Convenient offices in Closter, Park Ridge, and Montvale, NJ

Our mission is to help you move with confidence, improve your posture, and manage scoliosis with natural, effective care.

Schedule An Appointment!

If you or your child has been diagnosed with scoliosis, you don’t have to face it alone. Discover how the Schroth Method can help you improve alignment, reduce pain, and restore confidence in your movement.

📍 Visit us at one of our Bergen County locations:

  • Closter: 31 Vervalen St, Closter, NJ 07624

  • Park Ridge: 146 Kinderkamack Rd, Park Ridge, NJ 07656

  • Montvale: 32 Philips Pkwy, Montvale, NJ 07645

Schedule your appointment online or call today to start your personalized scoliosis program.
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FAQs About the Schroth Method

No. The exercises are gentle and customized to your comfort level, focusing on controlled breathing, stretching, and muscle activation.
Many patients notice improved posture, balance, and breathing within a few weeks. Long-term improvement continues with consistent practice.
In some cases, Schroth exercises may complement or reduce the need for bracing. Your therapist will coordinate with your doctor for an optimal plan.
Yes. While results vary, adults often experience improved pain relief, posture, and mobility through regular Schroth sessions.
In most cases, no referral is required. However, our team can coordinate care with your physician if needed.
Schroth therapy is typically billed as physical therapy, and most insurance plans provide coverage. Our staff will verify your benefits before treatment begins.

External Resource

Learn more about the Schroth Method and BSPTS certification from the Barcelona Scoliosis Physical Therapy School (BSPTS).

Service Areas

We proudly serve patients from Closter, Park Ridge, and Montvale, and throughout Bergen County, NJ, including Westwood, Hillsdale, Woodcliff Lake, Alpine, Englewood, Dumont, and Hackensack.

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