This study evaluates the effectiveness of face-to-face versus telerehabilitation programs for children aged 9-12 with thoracic hyperkyphosis, a condition caused by poor posture that leads to excessive forward curvature of the spine. Twenty children participated in a six-week corrective exercise program, either in person or through an online platform. Both approaches significantly improved spinal posture, back muscle strength, and pain levels, with no notable differences in outcomes between the two methods. The findings suggest that telerehabilitation is as effective as face-to-face rehabilitation, offering a flexible option for managing thoracic hyperkyphosis in children.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
20
The Face-to-Face Rehabilitation Program is a structured rehabilitation regimen designed to improve posture, reduce pain, and strengthen back extensor muscles in children with thoracic hyperkyphosis. Participants in this group engaged in the Thoracic Corrective Exercise Program, which included four specific exercises targeting thoracic spine correction. The exercises were performed three times per week over six weeks, under the direct supervision of a trained therapist. This setup ensured real-time feedback, personalized adjustments, and guidance during each session, optimizing the effectiveness of the rehabilitation process.
The Telerehabilitation Program is a structured rehabilitation regimen designed to improve posture, reduce pain, and strengthen back extensor muscles in children with thoracic hyperkyphosis. Participants in this group followed the Thoracic Corrective Exercise Program, which included four specific exercises targeting thoracic spine correction, performed three times per week over six weeks. The program was delivered remotely through the Fiziu platform, allowing therapists to provide virtual guidance, feedback, and monitoring during the sessions. This approach offered flexibility for families and ensured accessibility to rehabilitation services from the comfort of their homes.
Istanbul Medipol University
Istanbul, Kavacık, Turkey (Türkiye)
Thoracic Kyphosis Angle (TKA)
It was measured using a flexicurve ruler to assess the curvature of the thoracic spine before and after the intervention. \>45° is considered hyperkyphosis
Time frame: 6 weeks
Manual Muscle Test (MMT)
Evaluates back muscle strength before and after the intervention. Minimum = 0 (no muscle contraction), Maximum = 5 (normal muscle strength).
Time frame: 6 weeks
Visual Analog Scale (VAS)
Assesses pain levels before and after the intervention. Minimum = 0 (no pain), Maximum = 10 (worst possible pain)
Time frame: 6 weeks
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.