Evaluation of Thoracolumbar Fascia and Relationship With Low Back Pain in Individuals With Idiopathic Scoliosis

Evaluation of Thoracolumbar Fascia and Relationship With Low Back Pain in Individuals With Idiopathic Scoliosis

This observational study seeks to explore the potential association between thoracolumbar fascia characteristics and low back pain in individuals diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis.

This observational study aims to investigate the potential link between thoracolumbar fascia characteristics and low back pain in individuals with idiopathic scoliosis. The hypothesis underlying this study posits that alterations in thoracolumbar fascia thickness and properties contribute to changes in trunk flexibility and subsequently influence the occurrence and intensity of low back pain in patients with idiopathic scoliosis. The researchers believe that an increase in thoracolumbar fascia thickness may lead to reduced trunk flexibility, restricting the normal range of motion and potentially causing or exacerbating low back pain.

To explore this hypothesis, the study will include participants diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis. The researchers will measure thoracolumbar fascia thickness using ultrasound and assess trunk flexibility through various range of motion tests, including trunk flexion, extension, and lateral flexion using a goniometer, as well as the sit-and-reach test. To quantify the severity of the spinal curvature, the Cobb angle will be measured on anteroposterior standing radiographs.

Participants will also be asked to report their pain levels using the Visual Analog Scale, a simple tool where individuals rate their pain on a scale from 0 to 10. By analyzing the collected data, the researchers aim to establish potential correlations between thoracolumbar fascia thickness, trunk flexibility, and low back pain in individuals with idiopathic scoliosis.

Inclusion Criteria (with Scoliosis):

1. Being 10 years of age or older
2. Having a diagnosis of idiopathic scoliosis
3. Having a Cobb angle measurement above 15 degrees

Inclusion Criteria (for Healthy Individuals):

1. Being 10 years of age or older
2. Have no pathological spinal curvature.
3. Have no history of low back pain in the last 3 months (Visual Analog Scale score <3/10).

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Having any neurological, psychological, congenital, or rheumatological condition
2. Having a history of surgery or trauma involving the lower extremities or spinal region within the last 1 year
3. Having received any previous treatment related to scoliosis