The Effect of Three-Dimensional Exercises ( Schroth Method ) on Trunk Muscle Endurance, Sleep Quality, and Quality of Life in Adolescents With Hyperkyphosis
Kyphosis Study FormScoliosis X-ray (Orthoroentgenogram)Inclinometer MeasurementBiering-Sorensen Test (Back Extensor Endurance 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.
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.
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.
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.
Study 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.
Eligibility
Sex
ALL
Min age
12 Years
Max age
18 Years
Healthy volunteers
No
Inclusion Criteria:
* Adolescents between 12 and 18 years of age
* Presence of thoracic kyphosis with a T3-T12 Cobb angle ≥45° measured on a lateral thoracic radiograph
* Sufficient physical and cognitive ability to actively participate in the exercise protocol for at least 3 months
* Adequate communication and cognitive capacity to understand the educational materials provided
* Ability and willingness to regularly complete the exercise log throughout the study period
Exclusion Criteria:
* Scoliosis with a Cobb angle \>10° in the coronal plane
* Presence of structural spinal deformities such as vertebral fracture, spondylolisthesis
* History of previous spinal surgery
* Neuromuscular disorders that may affect the spine (e.g., cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy)
* Structural or functional pathologies involving the spine, pelvic complex, or shoulder girdle
* Balance disorders such as vestibular dysfunction, vertigo, or other conditions affecting postural control
* Inability to comply with the exercise protocol due to intellectual disability, severe behavioral disorders, or significant communication impairments
* Participation in professional-level sports activities that may influence exercise capacity or musculoskeletal function
* Presence of serious cardiopulmonary diseases (e.g., congenital heart disease, pulmonary hypertension)
Primary outcome measure(s)
Biering-Sorensen Test (Back Extensor Endurance Test) — Assessments will be performed at baseline (one day before the exercise program ), at 1 month and at 3 months after the initiation of exercises. 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.
Thoracic Kyphosis Angle (Inclinometer Measurement) — Assessments will be performed at baseline (one day before the exercise program), at 1 month and at 3 months after the initiation of exercises. Thoracic sagittal alignment will be assessed using a bubble inclinometer placed over the spinous processes from T3 to T12 while the participant stands in a relaxed upright position. Three consecutive measurements will be performed for each participant, and the mean value will be recorded for analysis. This clinical method provides a reliable and non-invasive estimate of thoracic kyphosis angle in adolescents.
Trial sites (1)
Facility
City
Region
Status
Gazisomanpasa Training and Research Hospital
Istanbul
Turkey (Türkiye)
Recruiting
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This page summarises publicly available registry data for informational purposes — not medical advice. Eligibility is determined by each study team; patients should discuss participation with their clinician.
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