Effects of Physical Activity Counseling in Patients With Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

Effects of Physical Activity Counseling in Addition to Scoliosis-Specific Corrective Exercises in Patients With Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a three-dimensional deformity of the spine of unknown etiology and is clinically defined as 10° or more lateral curvature of the spine. Although there are different types of scoliosis, the most common type is adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), which starts at the age of 10. AIS can affect body alignment, spine and soft tissues and cause physical problems such as postural disorder, cosmetic trunk deformity, decreased flexibility of the spinal column, changes in spinal muscle characteristics, and back pain. The aim of our study is to examine the effects of physical activity counseling on physical activity level and posture, perception of deformity and quality of life in patients with AIS.

AIS is the most common spinal deformity seen by primary care physicians, pediatricians, and spinal surgeons. The primary goal in the conservative treatment of scoliosis in adolescents is to prevent the progression of the curvature and secondary problems associated with spinal deformity and ultimately to eliminate the need for surgery. For this reason, scoliosis-specific corrective exercise therapy given by a physiotherapist is recommended for patients with AIS. However, while this treatment is effective to the gold standard on spine and posture, its effect on physical activity is not known exactly. The aim of this study is to examine the effect of physical activity counseling on physical activity level and posture, perception of deformity and quality of life in individuals with AIS who are given physical activity counseling in addition to scoliosis-specific corrective exercises. Individuals with AIS in both groups, in accordance with the Schroth classification, individually planned exercise program aimed at correcting and stabilizing the spine in three dimensions, in the form of 45-60 minutes sessions, 2 days a week for 8 weeks, a total of 16 sessions. Group 1 will be given physical activity counseling as well as scoliosis-specific corrective exercises. Physical activity counseling will be done face-to-face, and one-on-one interviews will be provided with each participant. Each meeting will last approximately 20-30 minutes and individuals will be encouraged to participate in more physical activity by providing alternative solutions on their physical activity habits, what they like to do or how they can access activities.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Being diagnosed with Idiopathic Scoliosis by an orthopedic specialist
• Cobb angle determined on anteroposterior radiograph is 10 - 45 degrees

Exclusion Criteria:

• Having mental problem, rheumatological, neuromuscular, cardiovascular, pulmonary disease
• Any treatment approach for scoliosis in the last six months
• Having any orthopedic problems that may affect their participation in exercise and/or physical activity
• Having a regular exercise habit