Not Yet RecruitingNot Applicable

Three-Dimensional Scoliosis Exercises and Diaphragmatic Manual Techniques in Adolescents With Idiopathic Scoliosis

Turkey (Türkiye)24 participantsStarted 2026-08-01

Plain-language summary

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a three-dimensional deformity of the spine that emerges during growth and is characterized by lateral curvature, vertebral rotation, and trunk asymmetry. AIS can negatively affect not only the spinal structure but also postural control, trunk stability, muscle activation patterns, respiratory function, and the quality of life of individuals. Particularly in thoracic curvatures, decreased rib cage mobility and impaired functional effectiveness of the diaphragm and intercostal muscles can lead to reduced respiratory capacity and respiratory muscle strength. Therefore, in scoliosis rehabilitation, it is important to evaluate not only spinal alignment but also respiratory mechanics and diaphragmatic function. Currently, among conservative treatment approaches, Three-Dimensional Scoliosis Exercises (Schroth method) are widely used and reported to be effective in reducing curvature progression. However, scientific evidence regarding the effects of supporting Schroth exercises with diaphragmatic manual techniques on muscle activation, trunk derotation, and respiratory function is limited. Since the diaphragm is both a primary respiratory muscle and an important postural muscle involved in spinal stabilization, it is thought that improving diaphragmatic function may contribute to scoliosis rehabilitation. In this randomized controlled trial, 24 individuals aged 10-18 years diagnosed with AIS will be divided into two groups. The study group will receive Schroth exercises supported by diaphragmatic manual techniques, while the control group will receive only Schroth exercises. Participants will be evaluated before and after treatment in terms of superficial muscle activity, Cobb angle, trunk rotation angle, perception of cosmetic deformity, respiratory functions, respiratory muscle strength, and quality of life. The unique value of this research is that it is one of the limited number of studies that multidimensionally examine the effects of diaphragmatic manual techniques combined with Schroth exercises on electromyographic muscle activation, derotation, and respiratory functions. It is expected that the results will contribute to the development of new rehabilitation approaches in the conservative treatment of AIS, strengthen evidence-based physiotherapy practices, and improve the quality of life of individuals with scoliosis.

Who can participate

Age range

10 Years – 18 Years

Sex

ALL

See this in plain English?

AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.

Inclusion Criteria: * Individuals aged 10-18 years, in adolescence. * Scoliosis curvature in the thoracic region. * Individuals and their parents (those who have signed the informed consent form) who agree to participate in regular follow-up and exercise programs throughout the study period. * Diagnosis of AIS by a physician. * Patients with idiopathic scoliosis diagnosed radiologically and with a Cobb angle less than 30°. * The child and family agree to participate in and adhere to the 12-week treatment process. * Ability to understand and speak Turkish. * Not being in another treatment program. Individuals without any systemic disease that prevents participation in the physical exercise program. Exclusion Criteria: * Individuals who report that they cannot participate regularly during the exercise period or who will not adhere to the study schedule. * Individuals who have not previously undergone surgery for scoliosis * Those with accompanying neuromuscular or rheumatic diseases * Those receiving other scoliosis-related treatment during the study * Malignancy * Those using braces * Individuals with cognitive impairment that prevents them from understanding and performing the exercises mentally or physically. * Those with respiratory and cardiovascular system diseases requiring regular medication

Questions worth asking your doctor

Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.

1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?

Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.

Questions for the trial coordinator

The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.

1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?

A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.

What they're measuring

Change of Ossification of the Iliac Apophysis

Timeframe: Changes from baseline Ossification of the Iliac Apophysis at 12 weeks.

Change of Severity of Scoliosis

Timeframe: Change from baseline severity of scoliosis at 12 weeks.

Change of Trunk Rotation Angle

Timeframe: Change from baseline trunk rotation angle at 12 weeks.

Change of Cosmetic Deformity Perception

Timeframe: Changes from baseline Cosmetic Deformity Perception at 12 weeks.

Change of Quality of Life

Timeframe: Change from Baseline Quality of Life at 12 weeks.

Change of Electromyographic Activity of Muscles

Timeframe: Change from Baseline Electromyographic Activities of Muscles at 12 weeks.

Change of Pulmonary Function

Timeframe: Change from Baseline Pulmonary Function at 8 weeks.

Trial details

NCT IDNCT07683533

SponsorAkdeniz University

Sponsor typeOTHER

Study typeINTERVENTIONAL

Primary completion2027-02-01

Contact for this trial

Neriman Temel Aksu

+905052973906 nerimantemelaksu@akdeniz.edu.tr

View on ClinicalTrials.gov More Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis trials