The mobility capabilities of persons with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

STUDY

DESIGN

An analysis of differences among healthy elementary school children and those with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), and between groups of individuals with AIS with different Cobb angles.

OBJECTIVES

To research the differences in dynamic balance among adolescents with a variety of postural statuses and verify the sensitivity value of the Cobb angle.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Assuming the biomechanical and functional particularities of the children with AIS, there is a need for an earlier diagnosis.

METHODS

The participants' balance (left and right step test) was estimated using electromyography and the reaction of base power on the platform.

RESULTS

Discriminant analysis confirmed a significant difference between the participants with AIS and healthy persons on the left step test. The values of the lumbal erector muscles, right gluteus, and side-to-side reaction of the force platform are more pronounced than the other variables. There is no significant difference among the participants with various Cobb angles.

CONCLUSIONS

The dynamic balance tests contribute to the AIS screening process. The pathologic form of AIS and lateralization highly affect dynamic balance. The study confirmed the neurophysicians' claims of the neuroplasticity of the central nervous system. In addition, the research illustrated the compensational functioning of mobility, especially when there is a lack of normal mobility forms, and there are weak postural control mechanisms and proprioception. There was no proof of the value of the Cobb angle as a clinical method and a measurement of the functional capabilities of the participants in the screening process.