The Effect of Three-Dimensional Exercises ( Schroth Method ) on Trunk Muscle Endurance, Sleep Quality, and Quality of Life in Adolescents With Hyperkyphosis

Summary

Adolescence is a critical period for spinal growth, and progression of thoracic hyperkyphosis may lead to pain, weak trunk muscles, sleep disturbances, and reduced quality of life. This study aims to investigate the effects of three-dimensional exercise program based on the Schroth Method on trunk muscle endurance, thoracic kyphosis angle, pain, sleep quality and quality of life in adolescents aged 12-18 years with hyperkyphosis.

Conditions

• Spine Deformity
• Kyphosis
• Adolescent
• Sleep Quality
• Trunk Muscle Endurance

Interventions

DIAGNOSTIC_TEST

Kyphosis Study Form

Kyphosis study form consisting of clinical and radiological measurements of patients aged 12-18 years who applied to the outpatient clinic with spine deformity will be filled in detail.

DIAGNOSTIC_TEST

Scoliosis X-ray (Orthoroentgenogram)

Adolescents aged 12-18 years presenting to the scoliosis outpatient clinic will undergo a standardized physical examination. Posture will be assessed in standing position from both anterior and lateral views in front of a posture chart. In patients where thoracic kyphosis is clinically suspected, a standing orthoroentgenogram (whole-spine radiograph) will be requested. On these radiographs, thoracic kyphosis angles will be measured to confirm the diagnosis and establish baseline values. Clinical and radiological data will be recorded in detail before study group allocation.

DIAGNOSTIC_TEST

Inclinometer Measurement

Thoracic kyphosis angle will also be assessed using a bubble inclinometer during physical examination. The participant will stand in a relaxed upright position, and the inclinometer will be placed over the spinous processes from T3 to T12 to measure the sagittal alignment of the thoracic spine. Three consecutive measurements will be taken for each participant, and the mean value will be recorded for analysis. This provides a reliable clinical estimate of thoracic kyphosis in addition to radiographic assessment.

DIAGNOSTIC_TEST

Biering-Sorensen Test (Back Extensor Endurance Test)

The Biering-Sorensen test is a standardized clinical assessment used to evaluate the isometric endurance of the trunk extensor muscles. During the test, the participant lies prone on an examination table with the upper edge of the iliac crests aligned with the edge of the table. The lower body (pelvis, knees, and ankles) is stabilized using straps or manual fixation. The upper body is extended horizontally beyond the edge of the table, with the arms crossed over the chest. The participant is instructed to maintain the unsupported horizontal trunk position for as long as possible without assistance. The outcome is recorded as the duration, in seconds, that the participant can hold the trunk in a straight horizontal alignment before fatigue, deviation from the position, or voluntary termination occurs.

Sponsors & Collaborators

• Gaziosmanpasa Research and Education Hospital

  lead OTHER_GOV

Principal Investigators

• Ebru Yılmaz Yalçınkaya, MD,Professor · Gaziosmanpaşa Training and Research Hospital Physical Rehabilitation Department

Study Design

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

TREATMENT

Masking

DOUBLE

Model

PARALLEL

Eligibility

Min Age

12 Years

Max Age

18 Years

Sex

ALL

Healthy Volunteers

No

Timeline & Regulatory

Start

2025-10-06

Primary Completion

2026-03-29

Completion

2026-05-01

Countries

• Turkey (Türkiye)

Study Locations