Investigation of gait and sagittal plane arm swing in individuals with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis

The aim of this study was to investigate time-distance characteristics of gait, sagittal plane arm swing angles and energy consumption during gait in individuals with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). The study included 26 individuals (14,9 ± 2,6 years) aged 10-18 who were diagnosed with AIS and 21 healthy individuals to match with this group in terms of age, gender, height and body mass index. Curve types of individuals with AIS were determined and recorded according to Scoliosis Research Society criteria and Lenke classification. Cobb angles and pelvic asymmetry values were measured using frontal spine X-ray graphs. Trunk rotation angles was measured with scoliometer, asymmetries of the body was measured with Anterior and Posterior Trunk Asymmetry indexes, thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis angles measured with with flexiruler. Gait was examined with GAITRite device. Kinovea software was used for the analysis of arm swing angles in sagittal plane from video camera recordings taken during gait. A Physiological Cost Index was used to evaluate energy consumption during gait. Based on findings, cadence, velocity, step lengths, stride lengths, single support times, left side double support time, base of support, foot angles, right side step time were not different during gait. On the other hand, left side step time (p <0.05) and right side double support time were found to be more in the scoliosis group (p <0.05). When sagittal arm swing angles and energy consumption compared between groups; there was no difference in left-side arm swing angles (p>0.05). But the right-side maximum flexion and extension and the right-side total arm swing angle were decreased in the scoliosis group compared to the control group (p<0.05), and energy consumption were greater in the scoliosis group than in the control group (p<0.05). Our study showed that, energy consumption increased while arm swing decreased in individuals with AIS, when compared to healthy controls. Step time and double support time was found to be affected by AİS. The results of our study show that changes in gait parameters, sagittal plane arm swing and energy consumption should be taken into account when determining rehabilitation programs for individuals with AIS.