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

NCT06759415 | Completed

• 1 other identifier: 55485
• Study Type: interventional
• Target: 52
• Locations: 1 country
• Sites: 1

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).

Conditions

Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

Outcome Measures

Primary Outcomes (1)

• Cobb

  The Cobb: Lines are drawn parallel to the upper edge of the superior vertebra and the lower edge of the inferior vertebra. Then, perpendicular lines are drawn to these parallel lines, and the angle between the two perpendiculars is measured. This angle, known as the Cobb angle, indicates the degree of scoliosis.

  24 weeks

Secondary Outcomes (3)

• The Walter Reed Visual Assessment Scale

  24 weeks

• Trunk Rotation Angle,

  24 weeks

• Scoliosis Research Society-22

  24 weeks

Study Arms (2)

PNF group

ACTIVE COMPARATOR

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.

Other: Exercise

core stabilization group

ACTIVE COMPARATOR

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.

Other: Exercise

Interventions

Exercise OTHER

Exercise therapy was applied to individuals in both groups.

PNF group; core stabilization group

Eligibility Criteria

• Age: 10 Years - 18 Years
• Sex: all
• Healthy Volunteers: No
• Age Groups: Child (0-17), Adult (18-64)

You may qualify if:

• Aged between 10 and 18 years old,
• First-time diagnosis of AIS,
• Risser sign of 0-3 and a Cobb angle of 10-30°,
• Sanders classification of 0-6,
• Lenke curve Type 1 or Type 1A,
• Volunteered to participate in the study.

You may not qualify if:

• The presence of other types of scoliosis (e.g., congenital or neuromuscular scoliosis),
• a history of spinal surgery,
• use of a brace,
• contraindications for exercise (e.g., cardiovascular or respiratory disorders),
• previous AIS treatment,
• rheumatological diseases, and/or other neuromuscular problems.

Sponsors & Collaborators

• Kirsehir Ahi Evran Universitesi: lead

Study Sites (1)

Mehmet Hanifi KAYA

Kırşehir, Kırşehir, 40100, Turkey (Türkiye)

Location

MeSH Terms

Interventions

Exercise

Intervention Hierarchy (Ancestors)

Motor Activity; Movement; Musculoskeletal Physiological Phenomena; Musculoskeletal and Neural Physiological Phenomena

Study Design

• Study Type: interventional
• Phase: not applicable
• Allocation: RANDOMIZED
• Masking: SINGLE
• Who Masked: OUTCOMES ASSESSOR
• Masking Details: The outcome assessor did not know which group the participants were in.
• Purpose: TREATMENT
• Intervention Model: PARALLEL
• Sponsor Type: OTHER
• Responsible Party: PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR
• PI Title: Pilot Project Manager Lecturer Doctor.

Model Details: Participants were randomly assigned to either the PNF group or the core stabilization group using a computer-generated randomization list to ensure equal distribution of participants across the two groups.

Study Record Dates

• First Submitted: June 5, 2024
• First Posted: January 6, 2025
• Study Start: January 12, 2022
• Primary Completion: December 15, 2022
• Study Completion: February 10, 2023
• Last Updated: June 18, 2025

Record last verified: 2025-06

Data Sharing

• IPD Sharing: Will not share

Locations

TU (1)