
As spring blossoms yield autumn fruits, lifelong learning lights the path forward.
From March 25 to 29, 2026, the ISST Part Ⅱ International Certification Course for the German Schroth 3D Scoliosis Method, hosted by Jianheng Academy, concluded successfully in Zhengzhou.
During the five-day intensive training, physiotherapists and rehabilitation professionals from all over the country delved deeply into the century-old essence of the Schroth Method, under the guidance of international lead instructor Avis Leung and teaching assistant Meng Fanyuan.

The Century-Old Gold Standard
The Essence of 3D Scoliosis Correction
The Schroth Method, founded by Katharina Schroth in 1920, is recognised globally as the international gold standard for non-surgical scoliosis treatment, thanks to its unique three-dimensional corrective techniques.
This Part Ⅱ course offers in-depth mastery of this classic therapeutic system.
At the opening of the course, lead instructor Avis Leung emphasised that scoliosis is a three-dimensional spinal deformity involving coronal plane lateral flexion, transverse plane vertebral rotation, and abnormal sagittal plane curvature. Based on this framework, the ISST method employs scoliosis-specific breathing exercises, postural awareness training and 3D self-correction techniques to help patients restore symmetrical posture and a normal breathing pattern.
Over five days, the course strictly followed the official German curriculum. From advanced radiographic assessment to complex manual adjunct techniques, the training progressed step by step, guiding participants to grasp the core principles of scoliosis management.

A Complete Clinical Loop from Assessment to Practice
This course follows the time-tested Schroth method framework, structured around six core modules: precise assessment, scientific classification, manual correction, therapeutic exercise intervention, bracing coordination, and real-case application. Participants master the core techniques through an integrated cycle of lectures, demonstrations, hands-on practice, and feedback reviews.
Day 1: Build Foundations & Master Advanced Radiological Assessment
Analyze sagittal plane assessment and additional terminology to gain an in-depth understanding of the pathological features of adult degenerative scoliosis
Receive hands-on guidance for radiological measurement, enabling accurate interpretation of X-rays to lay a solid foundation for subsequent treatment planning
Conduct group discussions to exchange clinical thinking and integrate foundational knowledge with advanced assessment techniques
(△Participants practice in groups.)
Day 2: Classification & Decision-Making, Establishing Individualised Treatment Frameworks
Systematically learn the Schroth scoliosis classification system and understand the key differences among various scoliosis patterns
Break down the process of treatment planning step-by-step, including medical and physical examinations and the creation of treatment charts
Case study workshops simulate real clinical scenarios to strengthen participants’ clinical reasoning skills from assessment to treatment formulation

Day 3: Refine Manual Therapy & Master Core 3D Correction Techniques
Step-by-step instruction on auxiliary manual techniques for thoracic curves and lumbar curves, with live instructor demonstrations of force application details and correction angles
One-on-one feedback and corrections by instructors during group practical sessions, ensuring all participants master the essentials of proper manual force application
Integrated auxiliary technique training, enabling participants to flexibly combine methods according to individual patient conditions for precise 3D correction

Day 4: Therapeutic Exercise & Bracing, Establish Long-Term Management Plans
Advanced Schroth exercise training focusing on active 3D spinal stabilization and postural control
In-brace exercise practice, teaching patients to perform effective corrective exercises while wearing braces
Discussion of interdisciplinary approaches to help participants understand collaborative workflows among therapists, orthotists and physicians
Day 5: Outcome Presentation, Course Certification & Knowledge Consolidation
Evidence-based practice review to reinforce treatment principles with scientific evidence
Participant case presentations for sharing clinical experience and mutual learning
Comprehensive final practical assessment. Qualified participants receive official ISST international certification to boost professional development

Faculty & Classroom
Immersive Training by a Top-Tier Faculty Team
This course is led by Dr. Avis Leung, the first certified North American Schroth instructor, alongside senior Chinese rehabilitation expert Teacher Meng Fanyuan, forming an elite instructor and teaching assistant team.
Small-class format: Limited to only 15 participants, ensuring everyone receives one-on-one guidance from instructors with full coverage of hands-on practice sessions
Evidence-based teaching approach: Drawing on over 30 years of clinical experience, Dr. Avis integrates the latest international research with the clinical realities of Chinese patients to bridge the gap between theory and practice
Interactive learning environment: The whole course includes group discussions, case simulations and peer reviews during practical work, helping participants internalize knowledge through exchange and refine skills through repeated practice
Live patient training: Four eligible scoliosis patients were specially recruited for the course, allowing participants to apply their techniques directly through real clinical practice

Participants reported tremendous gains. They have not only acquired comprehensive knowledge of conservative scoliosis treatment, but also improved their clinical skills through hands-on practice.
Closing Remarks
Though the five-day course was brief, the intensive structured learning cycle of lectures, demonstrations, practice and reviews ensured every participant left with valuable knowledge and skills. Those who passed the final assessment received official ISST international certification. This credential is far more than a certificate; it serves as globally recognised proof of professional competence.
We sincerely thank Instructor Avis Leung, who generously shared cutting-edge North American clinical reasoning and core manual techniques based on over 30 years of experience in orthopaedics and scoliosis physical therapy.
We also thank Teacher Meng Fanyuan, who drew on her extensive domestic teaching and clinical experience to answer participants’ questions and build a bridge integrating Western and Chinese rehabilitation approaches.
Finally, thank all participants for their dedicated commitment over these five days, continuously refining their skills to improve the care of scoliosis patients.

While the formal course has ended, Jianheng Academy will continue to stand firmly behind all participants, providing ongoing technical support and an academic exchange platform.
We hope all participants will apply what they have learned in their daily practice, helping more scoliosis patients straighten their spines and regain confidence in life.
Jianheng Academy – Dedicated to rehabilitation education, connecting you with world-leading international courses!
Looking forward to seeing you again!