This study was planned to compare the trunk sense (light touch, vibration and two-point discrimination), muscle endurance, muscle strength and balance of individuals with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) with healthy individuals of similar age and gender.
Thirty-five individuals with AIS with a mean age of 14.52 ± 2.53 years and 35 healthy subjects with a mean age of 14.13 ± 2.65 years were included in the study. The socio-demographic and physical characteristics of the individuals were recorded. While performing trunk sensory evaluations of the individuals in the control group, C7, T12 and L5 vertebrae were determined as reference points, if the individuals in the AIS group had one main curve, the vertebra with the apex, and if there were two main curves, the vertebrae with both apex were determined as reference points. The senses of light touch, vibration and two-point discrimination were evaluated with Semmes-Weinstein Monofilamet Kit, 128 Hertz frequency tuning fork and esthesiometer, respectively. Biering-Sorenson and Kraus-Weber tests were used to examine trunk muscle endurance. Trunk muscle strength was measured by manual muscle testing. Balance was assessed with the Fullerton Advanced Balance Scale.
The mean Cobb angle was found to be 35.12° ± 8.93°, according to the orthoroentgenogram results of individuals with AIS. When the AIS group and healthy individuals were compared, there was a statistical difference in trunk sense (light touch, vibration and two-point discrimination) between the two groups (p10.001, p2=0.015 and p3=0.001; p0.05, respectively). There was a statistically significant difference in trunk muscle endurance in favor of the control group (p0.001). Trunk muscle strength showed a statistically significant difference in favor of healthy individuals in anterior, lateral and oblique trunk flexor muscle groups, except for the back extensors (p=0.538; p>0.05) (p10.001, p2=0.003 and p3=0.028, respectively; p 0.05). Balance showed a significant difference in favor of the control group (p0.001).
These findings reveal that individuals with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) experience significant somatosensory deficits, reduced trunk muscle endurance and strength, as well as impaired balance. These impairments highlight the broader functional challenges faced by AIS patients, emphasizing the importance of targeted interventions to improve their overall motor function and stability.
The findings of this study suggest that individuals with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) experience significant deficits in trunk sensory perception, muscle strength, endurance, and balance compared to healthy individuals. These impairments may contribute to functional limitations and increase the risk of further musculoskeletal complications. Clinically, these results highlight the need for targeted rehabilitation programs focusing on improving trunk muscle strength, endurance, and balance while addressing somatosensory deficits in AIS patients. Early intervention may help prevent the progression of functional limitations and improve the quality of life in this population.
Trunk Sense
Endurance
