Abstract
Background The FED method (Fixation, Elongation, Derotation) is a treatment method approach
to Patients with scoliosis. The FED method is especially established in Spain and
Poland, whereby in Germany it is less well-known. Nevertheless the FED method is within
the scope of a research project (Project Number: 19200 BR/3). The purpose of the paper
is to characterize the FED method and to highlight the specificities in contrast to
the Schroth method, which is international established and especially in Germany.
Methods This systematic literature research was conducted in Nov 2017–Jan 2018. Therefore
common medical and physiotherapeutic databases were used. Furthermore there was a
hand search in selected scientific journals. Only a small number of relevant references
were identified. That is why the respective authors were asked to provide the full-texts
of their papers and to recommend further references.
Results A total of 378 references were identified. After removing duplicates and the content-related
selection, 19 references were deemed to be relevant. Based on the analysis of this
relevant literature, the FED method was comprehensively characterized. First of all
the general structure of the FED method and the scientific evidence for its effectiveness
was described. And as a result of the literature research, the operating principles
of the FED method were pointed out. Then these operating principles were discussed
in comparison with the Schroth method. The Schroth method based on sensomotoric and
kinesthetic principles and the correction of the pathologic posture was performed
by selective muscle activation and breathing-pattern. Thus, the posture correction
will be performed by the patients (auto correction). Compared to the Schroth method,
the FED method implements the posture correction by the FED-device. This correction
is influenced by mechanical forces with a comparatively high strength and intensity.
The repetitive mechanical correction stimulates the sensomotoric system. And due to
trophic/biochemical adaptations, the physiological bone growth will be stimulated.
Conclusion In total the authors want to clarify, that both treatment methods (Schroth method,
FED method) supposed to be applied in consideration of the preconditions of the patients
and the pursue of the different treatment goals. Thus, the implementation of treatment
methods should be used according to the individual treatment demand and on different
stages in the treatment process.
Key words
adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) - scoliosis specific physiotherapy - conservative
treatment - FED method