Supervised vs. Home Schroth Exercise in AIS

Comparative Effectiveness of Supervised vs. Home-Based Schroth Exercises in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: A Randomized Controlled Trial

This study aims to compare the effectiveness of supervised Schroth exercises versus a home-based exercise program in adolescents with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS).

Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) is a three-dimensional spinal deformity that develops in children aged 10-18, affecting approximately 0.47% to 12% of this population. If left untreated, curves between 10° and 45° may progress, leading to pain, breathing difficulties, postural problems, and reduced quality of life. Although bracing and surgery are traditional options, they have limitations. Physiotherapeutic scoliosis-specific exercises (PSSE), particularly the Schroth method, are increasingly recommended as a first-line conservative treatment.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (idiopathic etiology)
• Age between 10 and 18 years
• Cobb angle between 10° and 45°
• Able to participate in a 5-day/week exercise program (supervised or home-based)
• Patient and parent/guardian provide written informed consent
• Sufficient cooperation to comply with the study protocol and complete assessments

Exclusion Criteria:

• Non-idiopathic scoliosis (neuromuscular, congenital, functional, etc.)
• Prior or planned spinal surgery
• Neurological, rheumatological, metabolic, or cardiopulmonary disease that would interfere with participation
• Brace treatment within the last 6 months or planned during the study
• Regular scoliosis-specific exercise (more than 2 days/week) within the last 6 months