Effect of short-term spinal orthosis and insoles application on cobb angle, plantar pressure and balance in individuals with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

BACKGROUND

Spinal orthosis applications are preferred for conservative treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, and holistic biomechanical approaches are recommended.

METHODS

This was single-blind, prospective, randomized, controlled study. It included 42 patients (29 females/13 males) aged 10-18 years with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, Cobb angle of 20°-45°, who were deemed suitable for spinal orthosis use. Patients were randomly divided into two groups: control, spinal orthosis group (n = 21), and insoles and spinal orthosis group (n = 21). All participants used spinal orthoses for 3 months. This study evaluated the functional capacities, quality of life, balance, and plantar pressures of the participants. The evaluations were repeated after 1 week, and 3 months following spinal orthosis application.

FINDINGS: Statistically significant difference and positive effect were observed in Cobb angle (p = 0.008; p = 0.878, respectively), right total (p = 0.037; p = 0.193, respectively), left total (p = 0.037; p = 0.193, respectively), left rearfoot (p = 0.002; p = 0.708, respectively), and right forefoot plantar pressure (p = 0.001; p = 0.739, respectively) in participants in insoles and spinal orthosis group compared with those in the control group. Statistically significant differences and positive effects were observed in swing length (p = 0.001; p = 0.053, respectively) and functional capacity (p = 0.005; p = 0.220, respectively), which are parameters related to postural balance. No change was found in quality of life of either group (p > 0.05).

INTERPRETATION: Insoles may have positive impact on functional capacity, balance, and plantar pressure during long-term follow-up in individuals with scoliosis. Therefore, the evaluation of foot plantar pressure in individuals with scoliosis is recommended, and personalized insoles may be a beneficial option.