Ep. 3: What Is Scoliosis-Specific PT?

Welcome back to ScoliPod — the show rewriting the rules about living with a curved spine.

Join Dr. Laura and Dr. Beth as they dive into the path to becoming a physical therapist and how some PTs go on to specialize specifically in scoliosis care.

This episode is for you if you’ve ever wondered:

• What kind of training physical therapists go through

• How scoliosis-specific certification works or

• What to look for when choosing a PT for scoliosis or spinal fusion recovery

What We Cover:

• The journey to becoming a physical therapist in the U.S.
  → What a Doctorate of Physical Therapy (DPT) includes
  → Licensure and specialization options

• What makes a scoliosis-specific therapist different
  → The main international training schools (Rigo Concept, SEAS, SSOL, and more)
  → What a Level 1 scoliosis-specific course looks like
  → Why case studies and continued education matter

• How scoliosis research continues to evolve
  → The latest findings on exercise, sports participation, and curve management
  → Why it’s essential to work with practitioners who stay current with research

• A preview of the upcoming SOSORT Conference, where Dr. Beth and Dr. Laura will bring back the latest scoliosis research updates

Key Takeaways:

• Not all physical therapists have scoliosis-specific training — and that’s okay, but it’s important to know the difference.

• Scoliosis-specific schools require hands-on experience, case studies, and ongoing education.

• Current research supports activity and movement — there’s no single “bad” sport for scoliosis.

• The field is growing rapidly, and staying connected to research keeps care up to date and effective.

Finally, don't forget to subscribe to ScoliPod on your favorite pod catcher so you never miss an episode!

• Listen on Apple Podcasts

• Listen on Spotify

Click on the image to go directly to the episode website!

 Resources Mentioned:

• Find a local scoliosis specialist here: 

  • Rigo Concept - Spanish school of scoliosis

  • ISICO/ SEAS - (Scientific Exercise Approach to Scoliosis)

  • SSOL - Scoliosis and Spine Online Learning

  • PSSE-Schroth - Greek based training

• SOSORT (International Society on Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment)

• Dr. Laura's website

• Dr. Beth’s website