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Completed

NCT Number: NCT06759415

Investigation of the Effects of Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Techniques and Core Stabilization Exercises on Physical and Functional Parameters in Adolescents With Idiopathic Scoliosis

Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) is a prevalent three-dimensional torsional disorder, primarily affecting adolescents during puberty. Characterized by a lateral deviation of the spine greater than 10°, AIS can lead to physical and psychological issues, including back pain, cosmetic deformity, and reduced quality of life. This study aims to compare the effects of Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) techniques and Core Stabilization exercises on physical and functional parameters in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis. This randomized controlled trial was conducted with 52 adolescents aged 10-18 years, diagnosed with AIS (Cobb angle of 10-30°). Participants were randomly assigned to either the PNF group or the Core Stabilization group. Both groups underwent a 10-week supervised exercise program, supplemented by a home exercise regimen. Primary outcomes included changes in the Cobb angle and Angle of Trunk Rotation (ATR). Secondary outcomes assessed quality of life (SRS-22), perceived trunk appearance (WRVAS), and physical function (6MWT and STS).

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Key information

Conditions

Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

Age range

10 year–18 year

Sex eligibility

All sexes

Study type

Interventional

Phase

Not applicable

Primary location

Mehmet Hanifi KAYA

Kırşehir, 40100, Turkey (Türkiye)

About this study

Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) is a prevalent three-dimensional torsional disorder, primarily affecting adolescents during puberty. Characterized by a lateral deviation of the spine greater than 10°, AIS can lead to physical and psychological issues, including back pain, cosmetic deformity, and reduced quality of life. This study aims to compare the effects of Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) techniques and Core Stabilization exercises on physical and functional parameters in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis. This randomized controlled trial was conducted with 52 adolescents aged 10-18 years, diagnosed with AIS (Cobb angle of 10-30°). Participants were randomly assigned to either the PNF group or the Core Stabilization group. Both groups underwent a 10-week supervised exercise program, supplemented by a home exercise regimen. Primary outcomes included changes in the Cobb angle and Angle of Trunk Rotation (ATR). Secondary outcomes assessed quality of life (SRS-22), perceived trunk appearance (WRVAS), and physical function (6MWT and STS).

Who can participate

Healthy volunteers accepted: No

Only the study team can determine whether someone qualifies for participation.

Inclusion criteria

  • Aged between 10 and 18 years old,
  • First-time diagnosis of AIS,
  • Risser sign of 0-3 and a Cobb angle of 10-30°,
  • Sanders classification of 0-6,
  • Lenke curve Type 1 or Type 1A,
  • Volunteered to participate in the study.

Exclusion criteria

  • The presence of other types of scoliosis (e.g., congenital or neuromuscular scoliosis),
  • a history of spinal surgery,
  • use of a brace,
  • contraindications for exercise (e.g., cardiovascular or respiratory disorders),
  • previous AIS treatment,
  • rheumatological diseases, and/or other neuromuscular problems.

Treatment and study plan

Exercise

Other

Exercise therapy was applied to individuals in both groups.

Primary outcomes

  1. Cobb

    Time frame: 24 weeks

    The Cobb: Lines are drawn parallel to the upper edge of the superior vertebra and the lower edge of the inferior vertebra. Then, perpendicular lines are drawn to these parallel lines, and the angle between the two perpendiculars is measured. This angle, known as the Cobb angle, indicates the degree of scoliosis.

Secondary outcomes

  1. The Walter Reed Visual Assessment Scale

    Time frame: 24 weeks

    WRVAS: Perceived trunk appearance was evaluated using the Walter Reed Visual Assessment Scale (WRVAS), which assesses the cosmetic impact of scoliosis from the patient's perspective. The WRVAS consists of seven items, each scored from 1 (no deformity) to 5 (severe deformity), with a higher total score indicating a greater perceived deformity.

  2. Trunk Rotation Angle,

    Time frame: 24 weeks

    Trunk Rotation Angle: The ATR was evaluated using a scoliometer and Adam's forward bend test. Participants were asked to bend forward, and the ATR was measured at the apical vertebrae of the curve. This measurement is sensitive to changes in the rotational aspect of the scoliosis deformity.

  3. Scoliosis Research Society-22

    Time frame: 24 weeks

    Scoliosis Research Society-22: Quality of Life was assessed using the Scoliosis Research Society-22 (SRS-22) questionnaire, a validated self-report instrument that measures health-related QoL across five domains: function/activity, pain, self-image/appearance, mental health, and satisfaction with management. The total score is the average of the domain scores.

Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

Kirsehir Ahi Evran Universitesi

Other

Registry information

Important dates

Study start
2022
Primary completion
2022
Study completion
2023
First posted
Jan 6, 2025
Registry last updated
Jun 18, 2025

OpenTrials presents study information sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov. The official registry record should be consulted for the latest information.

View the official ClinicalTrials.gov record (opens in a new tab)

This listing is for discovery and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not guarantee that a study is recruiting, and does not determine eligibility. Contact the study team and a qualified healthcare professional when considering participation.

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