Level 3 with Núria Puigdevall and Amy Sbihli in Boston, MA, USA

Our recent Rigo Concept scoliosis education course brought together dedicated physical therapists committed to advancing their clinical expertise in the conservative management of spinal deformities. Over the duration of the program, participants immersed themselves in a comprehensive, evidence‑informed curriculum designed to elevate their clinical reasoning, technical skill, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Key Learning Highlights

🔹 PSSE (Physiotherapeutic Scoliosis‑Specific Exercises)
Participants gained a deeper understanding of PSSE principles and how to apply them within the Rigo Concept framework. Emphasis was placed on three‑dimensional correction, postural re‑education, and functional integration.

🔹 Advanced Exercise Techniques
Students developed high‑level proficiency in managing postural correction and spine stabilization using Rigo Concept Principles for Correction. Through targeted lab sessions, they learned how to integrate the theory of general strategies into individualized patient care and exercise programs for patients across the lifespan.

🔹 Pre‑ and Post‑Surgical Management
The course emphasized the continuum of care surrounding scoliosis surgery. Therapists learned about support needed for patients before and after surgical correction, ensuring safe progression and optimal functional outcomes.

🔹 Bracing Concepts & Correction Principles

The curriculum explored the relationship between brace design, corrective forces, and the Rigo Concept Classification. Students learned how to interpret brace mechanics, collaborate with orthotists, and integrate bracing strategies with exercise‑based treatment.

🔹 Group Treatment Strategies
Participants practiced designing and leading effective group‑based scoliosis sessions, learning how to maintain individualized correction goals while fostering peer support and efficiency in clinical settings.

🔹 Adult Scoliosis Management
The course addressed the unique needs of adults with scoliosis, including pain management, degenerative changes, functional limitations, and long‑term self‑management strategies.

🔹 Complex Case Management with Case Study Collaboration
Through case studies and clinical reasoning workshops, students worked through integrating classification, bracing knowledge, exercise progression, and psychosocial considerations.

🔹 Building a Collaborative Care Team
A central theme of the course was the importance of interdisciplinary teamwork. Participants explored strategies for building strong partnerships among therapists, orthotists, physicians, surgeons, and families to ensure comprehensive, patient‑centered care.

This cohort demonstrated exceptional engagement, curiosity, and commitment to advancing scoliosis care. Their newly refined skills will directly enhance the quality of life for individuals living with spinal deformities.