Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Physiotherapeutic Scoliosis-Specific Exercise in Improving Spinal Deformity in Scoliosis Using Dynamic X-ray

Objective: This study evaluated the direct effects of Physiotherapeutic Scoliosis-Specific Exercise (PSSE) on spinal deformities using dynamic X-ray imaging during the exercise process. Real-time changes in spinal alignment and deformities were quantitatively analyzed to provide evidence for the therapeutic utility of PSSE. Design: A single-subject pilot study Methods: A 6-month PSSE program was conducted under the supervision of a physical therapist with over 10 years of experience in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) management. The program comprised three phases: in the first month, participants attended three weekly clinic sessions; in the second month, two clinic sessions and one home session; and in the remaining months, one clinic and two home sessions weekly. Dynamic X-ray imaging measured spinal deformities, comparing alignment during PSSE (During PSSE) and in a normal standing posture (Post). Key parameters such as Cobb angle, vertebral rotation, and Angle of Trunk Rotation were analyzed before, during, and after the intervention. Results: Significant improvements were observed in all measured parameters. During PSSE, Cobb angle and vertebral rotation were reduced by 67.66% and 66.67%, respectively, demonstrating PSSE's impact on lateral curvature and vertebral rotation in scoliosis. Improvements persisted post-intervention, further supporting PSSE's effectiveness. Conclusions: This study confirmed PSSE's direct and positive effects on spinal alignment and deformity improvement in AIS patients. The findings emphasize the importance of ongoing education and consistent practice to sustain these improvements in daily life. As a single-subject pilot study, these results warrant further research with larger cohorts to validate these outcomes.