Investigation of effects of schroth method on thoracic kyphosis, quality of life and body image in adolescents with postural kyphosis; a randomized controlled study

Objective: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of the Schroth method and conventional exercises on thoracic kyphosis angle, quality of life, and body image in adolescents with postural kyphosis. Materials and Methods: The study included 30 patients aged between 10–17 years with a thoracic kyphosis angle ≥45°. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups: the conventional exercise group (CE, n=15) and the Schroth exercise group (SE, n=15). Both groups participated in supervised exercise programs three times per week for 12 weeks under the guidance of a physiotherapist. Assessments were conducted at baseline (T0), immediately after the intervention (T1) and at 12th weeks post-intervention (T2). Thoracic kyphosis index was measured using a flexible ruler; shoulder range of motion was evaluated with a goniometer and pain intensity was assessed with the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Self-Perceived Body Image Scale was used to evaluate body image and Scoliosis Research Society-22 Quality of Life Questionnaire (SRS-22) was used to assessed quality of life. Results: It was found a significant decrease in kyphotic angles and pain scores after intervention and at follow-up (p<0.05). There is a significant difference in kyphotic angles between groups in favour of SE group (p<0.05), while no significant difference was found in pain scores (p>0.05). Flexion and external rotation movements at shoulder were increased significantly after intervention in both groups, and abduction was improved at follow-up (p<0.05). At follow-up, shoulder abduction and external rotation were significantly increased further in SE group (p<0.05). Body image scores were improved significantly in both groups after intervention and follow-up compared to baseline (p<0.05). Quality of life was improved significantly in both groups (p<0.05), with the SE group demonstrating significantly higher scores than the CE group after intervention and follow-up (p<0.05). Conclusion: This study contributes to the limited literature on exercise-based approaches aimed at maintaining thoracic kyphosis angle, body image, and quality of life in individuals with postural kyphosis. The Schroth method supports the sustainability of postural alignment and functional well-being through three-dimensional exercise principles. Keywords: Body image; Quality of life; Postural kyphosis; Schroth; Upper limb.