The Effect of Schroth Exercises on Cerebral Cortical Thickness and Motor and Proprioceptive Fibres

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS): It is a type of structural scoliosis of unknown aetiology and most commonly seen in girls aged 10-18 years. In addition to spinal deformity, postural asymmetry, proprioceptive sensory, vestibular and vestibulospinal system dysfunctions may be observed in AIS. The Schroth method is a scoliosis-specific exercise approach that uses postural, scoliosis-specific sensorimotor and breathing exercises and is widely used in scoliosis rehabilitation. The treatment programme consists of correction of scoliotic posture with the help of exteroceptive and proprioceptive stimulation and mirrors, isometrics and other exercises to lengthen or strengthen asymmetric muscles, and maintaining a specific breathing pattern. Several studies have shown that the Schroth method improves Cobb angles, slows curve progression, reduces the need for surgery, increases back muscle strength and improves respiratory function. However, although the Schroth method is widely used in AIS rehabilitation, no study has investigated the effects of Schroth exercises on cerebral cortical thickness, proprioceptive sensation and corticospinal pathways.

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of Schroth and traditional exercises on cortical thickness, proprioceptive sensation and corticospinal tracts in individuals with AIS.