Schroth and Scapular Muscle Activation in Hyperkyphosis

Launched by ISTANBUL UNIVERSITY - CERRAHPASA · Mar 26, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying how a specific type of exercise called Schroth exercises can help improve muscle activation in the shoulders of children with a condition known as thoracic hyperkyphosis, which causes a hunchback appearance. The trial will involve 56 children aged 7 to 18 years who have a certain level of spinal curvature. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a group that practices these Schroth exercises for 8 weeks or a control group that will receive education on good posture. The researchers want to see if the exercises help strengthen the muscles around the shoulders and improve posture and comfort.

To be eligible for the trial, participants must have a spinal curvature between 40° and 70° and should be in a stage of skeletal development that allows for growth. However, children with certain conditions like severe spinal deformities, recent surgeries, or specific health issues won't be able to participate. Those who join can expect to learn exercises that focus on better posture and breathing while being monitored by instructors. The findings from this trial could help doctors develop better ways to manage and prevent issues related to thoracic hyperkyphosis in children.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Thoracic kyphosis angle (Cobb) between ≥40° and \<70° on lateral radiographs
• • Aged 7-18 years
• • Risser stage 0-5, indicating ongoing skeletal development
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Congenital or rigid spinal deformities/anomalies
• • Major musculoskeletal surgery or trauma, especially involving the spine
• • Physiotherapeutic intervention for the spine in the last 6 months
• • Current brace use
• • BMI ≥ 30
• • Regular upper extremity sports involvement (e.g., swimming, volleyball) at least twice a week for one year
• • More than 60 minutes of moderate-to-high intensity physical activity per week
• • Visual impairments or light sensitivity
• • Positive vestibular (Unterberger) test
• • Hearing impairments
• • Cognitive difficulties affecting comprehension
• • Systemic diseases (diabetes, hypothyroidism, infection, malignancy)
• • Neurological disorders
• • Active rheumatic diseases