Effects of the diaphragm mobilization on respiratory capacity in adolescent with idiopatic thoracal scoliosis

Berrak Varhan, Hatice Karabulut, Gözde Alev Kömür, Beyza Dal Koyuncuoglu
Purpose:

This study aimed to examine the effect of diaphragm mobilization on respiratory functions, thoracic morphology, and mobility posterior muscle chain flexibility in individuals with Adolescents Idiopathic Thoracic Scoliosis (AITS). 

Methods:

Forty individuals aged 10-18 participated in the study. The participants were divided into: the control group (CT), which performed exercises, and the manual therapy group (MT), which received diaphragm and rib cage derotation mobilization in addition to the exercises with the Schroth therapist. Individuals were followed for four weeks (6 sessions). Individuals' rotation measurements were measured with a scoliometer, and respiratory functions were measured with a spirometer before and at the end of treatment. Surface topography was evaluated with a 3D- software-program, and mobility was assessed with an inclinometer and chest circumference measurement. 

Results:

As a result of the analyses, all respiratory parameters in both groups, more in the MT group; Rib cage circumference values showed a statistically significant increase at the end of treatment (p0.05). Thoracic rotation decreased statistically significantly in both groups at the end of treatment (p0.01). The decrease in rotation was greater in the MT group (p0.01). In thoracic mobility, inclinometer measurements increased statistically significantly in the MT group (p0.05), while no statistically significant difference was observed in the CT (p>0.05).

Conclusion(s):

The effectiveness of MT has been shown to increase the decreased respiratory parameters in individuals with AITS. Since it has been observed that MT increases the effectiveness of Schroth exercises in individuals with AITS, its inclusion in the treatment program may provide better results from treatment programs.

Implications:

Manual therapy techniques applied in addition to Schroth exercises in individuals with AITS may be an effective treatment method in cases where respiratory capacity is reduced. The results obtained may shed light on the development of targeted rehabilitation strategies, improving the quality of life of individuals affected by scoliosis, and providing valuable insights to clinicians in the management of respiratory complications associated with this condition.

Funding acknowledgements:
The study was not funded by any institution or individual.
Keywords:
Adolescents
Manual Therapy
Respiratory Functions
Primary topic:
Cardiorespiratory
Second topic:
Paediatrics
Third topic:
Other
Did this work require ethics approval?:
Yes
Name the institution and ethics committee that approved your work:
Istinye University Human Research Ethics Committee
Provide the ethics approval number:
22-43
Has any of this material been/due to be published or presented at another national or international conference prior to the World Physiotherapy Congress 2025?:
No

Back to the listing