IS PHYSIOTHERAPY SCOLIOSIS-SPECIFIC EXERCISE (PSSE) AN EFFECTIVE NON-SURGICAL TREATMENT FOR ADOLESCENT IDIOPATHIC SCOLIOSIS (AIS)? A COMPARISON BETWEEN AN INTENSIVE FOUR-WEEK COURSE AND TWO FORTNIGHTLY COURSES

Abstract

Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) patients were subjected to four weeks of Physiotherapy Scoliosis Specific Exercise (PSSE). 124 (Exclusion = 3) Patients were enrolled and assigned to either complete their treatment in one 4-week bout (4WC) (63 patients, M_age = 14.52), or to complete their treatment in two separate fortnightly bouts (2X2WC) (63 patients, M_age = 14.26). Clinical exam, surface topography and Scoliometer readings were compared. The SRS-30 questionnaire before and after treatment was conducted at 6, 12, 18 and 24 months.

Group 1 (4WC) showed significant improvements from baseline (Pre-3.73 – Post 3.9; p=0.026) after the course of treatment, and showed significant improvements at 12 months follow up in Mental Health (p=0.006), Aggregate score (p= 0.005) and Satisfaction score (p=0.011). Satisfaction score remained statistically significant at 18 months follow up (p=0.016). Group 2 (2X2WC) did not record a significant improvement from baseline (p=0.058); however, showed significant improvements in self-image (p=0.013). There was no statically significant difference in SRS scores with respect to follow up time.

We conclude that Physiotherapy Scoliosis Specific Exercise (PSSE) is a successful non-invasive therapy for AIS. The modified Schroth technique (ScolioGold) shows significant improvement in SRS30 scores with the 4-week intensive course that are sustained at a 2 year follow up.