Exploring the Impact of Spinal Mobilization in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

Abstract

Background: Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a prevalent musculoskeletal condition in adolescents, characterized by a complex etiology and significant impact on health. The condition is typically managed through various physical therapies, but the effectiveness of combining different therapeutic approaches, particularly the integration of spinal mobilization with conventional exercises, is not well established. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of combining Schroth exercises with spinal mobilization in improving Cobb's angle in patients with AIS, compared to Schroth exercises alone. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted at Mubarak Hospital, Sargodha, involving 12 patients aged 10-20 years with diagnosed AIS. Participants were divided into two groups: a Control Group (n=6) receiving Schroth exercises and an Experimental Group (n=6) receiving Schroth exercises plus spinal mobilization. The treatment duration was four weeks. Pre- and post-intervention Cobb's angles were measured using radiographs. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 25. Results: Both groups demonstrated a significant reduction in Cobb's angle post-intervention. The Control Group showed a decrease from a mean ± SD of 20 ± 3.46 degrees to 17.5 ± 3.61 degrees (P < 0.001). The Experimental Group exhibited a more pronounced reduction, from 20.3 ± 2.80 degrees to 15.5 ± 3.08 degrees (P < 0.001). Conclusion: The study concluded that the integration of spinal mobilization with Schroth exercises is more effective in reducing Cobb's angle in patients with AIS compared to Schroth exercises alone. This combination therapy may represent a more potent approach for the management of AIS.