Investigation of the effects of two different exercise methods on the scoliosis severity, gait, physical, functional parameters and quality of life in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of two different exercise methods on scoliosis severity, gait, physical, functional parameters, and quality of life in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). In the study, 28 individuals with AIS Lenke type 1 curvature were participated and randomly divided into two groups: Schroth group (n = 14) and Core stabilization group (n = 14). A 10-week exercise program was applied to both groups 3 days a week under the control of a physiotherapist. Before and after treatment; Cobb angles of curves with anterior-posterior radiography, trunk rotations with scoliometer in forward bending test, perception of cosmetic deformity with Walter Reed Visual Assessment Scale (WRVAS), upper and lower extremity muscle strength with Biodex System 4-Pro®, spinal mobility with Spinal Mouse®, pedobarographic gait parameters with the DIASU Digital Analysis System®, and quality of life with the SRS-22 questionnaire were assessed. After the treatment, a decrease in Cobb angles and trunk rotation angles, improvement in the perception of cosmetic deformity, spinal mobility, muscle strength, pedobarographic gait parameters, and quality of life were observed in both groups (p<0.05). Reduction in Cobb angles, thoracic trunk rotation angle, cosmetic body deformity, and improvement in spinal mobility and quality of life were found to be higher in the Schroth group compared to the Core stabilization group (p<0.05). It was observed that the increase in upper and lower extremity muscle strength was higher in the Core group compared to the Schroth group (p<0.05). In the plantar surface contact area, a greater increase was observed in both the static state and gait in the Schroth group compared to the Core stabilization group (p<0.05). There was no difference between the two groups in the decrease in cervicothoracic and lumbar trunk rotation (p>0.05). In conclusion, Schroth exercises were found to be more effective than core stabilization exercises in reducing the severity of scoliosis, correcting scoliosis-related problems, and improving the quality of life. Also, Core stabilization exercises were found to be more effective than Schroth exercises in improving upper and lower extremity muscle strength. Considering the purpose of treatment, both exercise methods can be used in the conservative treatment of AIS. Keywords: Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, exercise, Schroth method, Core stabilization, scoliosis