A randomized controlled trial was conducted on 72 patients diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis at the University of Lahore Teaching Hospital. The study aimed to explore the synergistic effects of the Schroth method with and without core stabilization exercises. Participants were randomly allocated into two groups: Group A, which received both the Schroth method and core stabilization exercises, and Group B, which received only the Schroth method. The intervention lasted for 10 weeks, with assessments conducted at baseline, the 5th week, and the 10th week. Outcome measures included Cobb angle (spinal curvature), lumbar extensor endurance (Sorensen test), chest mobility, and quality of life (SRS-22 questionnaire). The study found significant improvements in all outcome measures for both groups, with Group A showing superior results. The addition of core stabilization exercises to the Schroth method resulted in better reductions in Cobb angle, enhanced lumbar extensor endurance, and improved chest mobility and quality of life, indicating a synergistic effect of the combined approach. The findings suggest that incorporating core stabilization exercises into scoliosis treatment protocols can lead to superior clinical outcomes.
A randomized controlled trial will be conducted at the University of Lahore Teaching Hospital. Thirty patients diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis, aged 10 to 18 years, will be randomly divided into two groups: Group A will receive the Schroth method in combination with core stabilization exercises, while Group B will receive only the Schroth method. Both interventions will be delivered three times weekly for ten weeks. Outcome measures, including Cobb angle (curve magnitude), lumbar extensor endurance (Sorensen test), chest mobility, and quality of life (SRS-22), will be assessed at baseline, week 5, and week 10.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
72
The Schroth method will focus on postural correction techniques aimed at improving spinal alignment, reducing the curvature of the spine, and enhancing trunk control. Key exercises will include spinal elongation, de-rotation, and specific breathing techniques to help reduce the scoliotic curve. Core stabilization exercises will target the deep trunk muscles, such as the transversus abdominis and multifidus, to improve spinal stability. These exercises will involve bodyweight exercises, resistance bands, and stability balls, aimed at increasing muscle endurance and promoting better posture. The interventions will be performed three times a week for 10 weeks, with each session lasting 60 minutes
The control group will receive the Schroth method alone, focusing solely on postural correction exercises. These exercises will aim to improve spinal alignment, reduce curvature, and enhance postural control through spinal elongation, de-rotation, and specific breathing techniques designed to address the scoliosis. The control group will not receive any core stabilization exercises in addition to the Schroth method. This intervention will also be performed three times a week for 10 weeks, with each session lasting 60 minutes
UOL Teaching Hospital
Lahore, Punjab Province, Pakistan
RECRUITINGChange in Cobb Angle(Curve Magnitude)
The Cobb angle will be used to measure the reduction in spinal curvature. The Cobb angle is the standard method for assessing the severity of scoliosis. A decrease in the Cobb angle indicates improvement in spinal alignment
Time frame: Change from Pre-Intervention to the 10th week
Change in Lumbar Extensor Endurance (Sorensen Test)
The Sorensen test will assess lumbar extensor muscle endurance, measuring the ability to hold an isometric contraction for as long as possible. Improvements in endurance indicate better trunk stability
Time frame: Change from pre-intervention to 10th week
Change in Chest Mobility (measured by chest expansion)
Chest mobility will be measured using a non-stretch measuring tape at the xiphoid level, both at rest and during maximal inhalation and exhalation. An increase in chest mobility is an indicator of improved thoracic flexibility and lung function.
Time frame: Change from pre-intervention to 10th week
Change in Quality of Life (SRS-22 Questionnaire)
The Scoliosis Research Society (SRS-22) questionnaire will be used to assess the quality of life, including function, pain, mental health, self-image, and satisfaction with treatment. Improvements in scores reflect enhanced functional outcomes and psychosocial well-being. Each item is rated on a 5-point Likert scale (1 = worst, 5 = best). Total score ranges from 22 to 110. Higher scores indicate better quality of life and treatment satisfaction.
Time frame: Change from pre-intervention to 10th week
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