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

NCT ID: NCT06759415

Last Updated: 2025-06-18

Basic Information

• Recruitment Status: COMPLETED
• Clinical Phase: NA
• Total Enrollment: 52 participants
• Study Classification: INTERVENTIONAL
• Study Start Date: 2022-01-12
• Study Completion Date: 2023-02-10

Brief Summary

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).

Detailed Description

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).

Conditions

Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

Study Design

• Allocation Method: RANDOMIZED
• Intervention Model: PARALLEL
• Primary Study Purpose: TREATMENT
• Blinding Strategy: SINGLE

Study Groups

PNF group

Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Group: The Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) PNF exercises focused on enhancing neuromuscular control, flexibility, and strength of the spinal and core muscles. The exercise regimen included spiral and diagonal movement patterns, rhythmic stabilization, and contract-relax techniques. Participants were instructed on the activation of the transverse abdominus (TrA) muscle, starting with palpation techniques to feel the muscle contraction. Exercises progressed from supine positions to more challenging postures, incorporating breathing control to avoid the Valsalva maneuver.

Group Type: ACTIVE_COMPARATOR

Exercise

Intervention Type: OTHER

Exercise therapy was applied to individuals in both groups.

core stabilization group

Core Stabilization Group: The core stabilization exercises aimed to improve the stability and strength of the core muscles, which are crucial for maintaining spinal alignment and posture. The exercise regimen included static and dynamic postural control exercises, balance training, and functional movement patterns. The core stabilization exercises focused on strengthening the deep trunk muscles, including the transverse abdominis, multifidus, and pelvic floor muscles.

Group Type: ACTIVE_COMPARATOR

Exercise

Intervention Type: OTHER

Exercise therapy was applied to individuals in both groups.

Interventions

Exercise

Exercise therapy was applied to individuals in both groups.

Intervention Type: OTHER

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusion Criteria

1. Aged between 10 and 18 years old,

2. First-time diagnosis of AIS,

3. Risser sign of 0-3 and a Cobb angle of 10-30°,

4. Sanders classification of 0-6,

5. Lenke curve Type 1 or Type 1A,

6. Volunteered to participate in the study.

Exclusion Criteria

1. The presence of other types of scoliosis (e.g., congenital or neuromuscular scoliosis),

2. a history of spinal surgery,

3. use of a brace,

4. contraindications for exercise (e.g., cardiovascular or respiratory disorders),

5. previous AIS treatment,

6. rheumatological diseases, and/or other neuromuscular problems.

• Minimum Eligible Age: 10 Years
• Maximum Eligible Age: 18 Years
• Eligible Sex: ALL
• Accepts Healthy Volunteers: No

Sponsors

Kirsehir Ahi Evran Universitesi

OTHER

Sponsor Role: lead

Responsible Party

Mehmet Hanifi Kaya

Pilot Project Manager Lecturer Doctor.

Responsibility Role: PRINCIPAL_INVESTIGATOR

Locations

Mehmet Hanifi KAYA

Kırşehir, Kırşehir, Turkey (Türkiye)

Countries

Turkey (Türkiye)

Other Identifiers

55485

Identifier Type: -

Identifier Source: org_study_id