Virtual Reality-Based Assessment of Perception of Trunk Symmetry in a Non-Clinical Sample of Adolescent Females: A Pilot Exploratory Study

Background: Assessment of body-related perceptual disturbances is important in adolescent girls. Objective: This pilot exploratory study investigates distortion and dissatisfaction related to trunk symmetry perception in a non-clinical sample of female adolescents using Scoliosis 3D, a virtual reality-based tool. Methods: Entry criteria were females aged 12–18 years with no scoliosis or other spinal deformities confirmed by clinical examination. Thirty participants (mean age 15.03 ± 1.30 years; mean Body Mass Index [BMI] 22.88 ± 4.68 kg/m2) were evaluated using the virtual reality application, the Body Esteem Scale, and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire–25. Virtual reality-based indicators were derived from participants’ selections of perceived and desired trunk symmetry and their comparison with actual clinically assessed trunk alignment. Results: The difference between estimated current and actual body shape (trunk symmetry distortion) was significant (p = 0.001), as was the difference between estimated current and desired body shape (trunk symmetry dissatisfaction, p = 0.001). Conclusions: These findings provide preliminary evidence supporting the feasibility of Scoliosis 3D for exploratory assessment of perceptual discrepancies related to trunk symmetry in healthy adolescent females. Participants frequently misperceived their current trunk symmetry and experienced dissatisfaction with it, with higher distortion and dissatisfaction associated with a less positive attitude toward physical condition.