The Level 1 Rigo Concept PSSE course recently concluded in Lexington, MA, bringing together nine therapists from four states for an immersive scoliosis specific physical therapy scoliosis treatment learning experience led by Amy Sbihli, PT and Cori Reynolds, PT. Over six days, participants engaged in a dynamic blend of theoretical lessons and hands-on practical labs, deepening their understanding of physical therapy for scoliosis as a complex, three-dimensional condition and how spinal torsion drives changes in the spine and trunk.  The course integration of radiological imaging assessment and clinical assessment helps the student better understand the impact of coronal and sagittal spinal changes that arise with the diagnosis of scolisis. Understanding and applying the Rigo Concept Classification sets the foundation for learning how to manage scoliosis with physical therapy. Rigo Concept Barcelona Scoliosis Physical Therapy School (BSPTS) Treatment Principles for Correction guide how to treat idiopathic scoliosis and sagittal plane conditions. Participants were also introduced to how the physical therapist can support the medical team by understanding the latest advances in 3D Rigo Concept scoliosis bracing, designed to address the torsional forces that drive curve progression. Beyond the lecture format of education, observed real-world applications of the Rigo Concept PSSE as an Advanced Rigo Concept L3 therapist and teacher worked with three volunteers living with severe curvatures and bonded as they took theory into collaborative lab practice and discussion about shared clinical case experiences.
These therapists now join the global Rigo Concept PSSE international community, equipped with new skills and insights to support their patients. Many are eager to return for the Level 2 course next year, continuing their journey as vital members of the interdisciplinary scoliosis treatment team.

Our recent Rigo Concept BSPTS 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.

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Success! This Rigo Concept–Barcelona Scoliosis Physical Therapy School (BSPTS) Level 2 Course was full of nine smart and curious physical therapists. This six-day training transitioned these therapists from knowledge and basic practice of the Rigo Concept Theory into a deep understanding about the management of scoliosis, scoliosis assessment (clinically and radiologically), prognosis, plan of care development using SOSORT Guidelines for Non-Surgical Treatment of scoliosis, exercise selection, and increased skill in the use of physiotherapy for scoliosis. The Rigo Concept-BSPTS Principles of correction were described, demonstrated, and practiced for advanced physiotherapy exercise starting positions. The therapists took part in lectures and interactive labs that showed how to use exercises for scoliosis with patients of all ages. This course highlights how important it is to individualize care, explaining that “how to treat scoliosis” depends on the patient’s age, the type of curve, and the expected scoliosis prognosis.
During the course the students shared patient case examples of their work. These students were able to self-critic their work and scoliosis exercise positions based on the learning that was acquired during their Rigo Concept-BSPTS L2 week of training. At the end of each case presentation, discussions with their peers gave the therapists a chance to compare different ways of approaching scoliosis assessment, Rigo Classification, and scoliosis treatment options. Participants left with a stronger understanding of their role in offering effective, evidence-based non-operative scoliosis treatment.

​Twelve dedicated physical therapists recently completed the USA Rigo Concept–Barcelona Scoliosis Physical Therapy School (BSPTS) Level 1 Course. This six-day training introduced participants to the basics of physiotherapy for scoliosis and taught them the principles of physiotherapy exercises designed to help improve spinal alignment. Rooted in European tradition and based on the original Schroth Method Principles, the course focused on both understanding the condition and practicing hands-on skills. The therapists took part in lectures and interactive labs that showed how to use exercises for scoliosis with patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.
Case discussions gave the therapists a chance to compare different ways of approaching scoliosis diagnosis, while group labs presented practical examples of scoliosis treatment options. In the hands-on sessions, students practiced Rigo Concept exercise techniques that can be used alone or in combination with a scoliosis brace for more complete care. They also talked through situations where scoliosis treatment without surgery could be most effective, building their confidence in applying non-surgical scoliosis treatment in the clinic. The instructor highlighted how important it is to individualize care, explaining that “how to treat scoliosis” depends on the patient’s age, the type of curve, and the expected scoliosis prognosis.
By the end of the course, therapists had gained not only classroom knowledge but also practical strategies to use back in their clinics. They were prepared to teach patients and families about the benefits of physiotherapy-based care and to provide corrective tools that go beyond the treatment room. Participants left with a stronger understanding of their role in offering effective, evidence-based scoliosis treatment.

​Another L1 completed by 10 physical therapists in Lexington, MA. This class worked well together to learn Rigo Concept PSSE over our 6-day course.  We began with discussing the highlights of the Base Course; SOSORT treatment Guidelines, Rigo Concept Classification, and Rigo Concept General Principles of the BSPTS, then dove deeper into clinical and radiological assessment.  Once prepared with this strong foundation we transitioned to General and Specific treatment principles in both theory and practice. Lab practice is where it all comes together.    Now this group of Rigo Concept L1 PSSE therapists will travel home to support their local population.  They are now part of the Rigo Concept team and have access to mentoring and case support as they prepare for Rigo Concept L2. Congratulations Lexington March 2025 L1 Class!    

This is the second 2025 Rigo Concept Bridging Course, but the first in the USA! Therapists with years of BSPTS experience came to learn the updates and evolutions to Rigo Concept PSSE from our most experienced school therapists and teachers Nuria Puigdevall Coderch, PT and Monica Villagrasa Escudero.  

First USA Rigo Concept BSPTS Level 3 Certified Physical Therapists.  Go spread your knowledge and do good work!  We are so proud of you.