Posture analysis and dynamic balance in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis

Scoliosis is a spinal deviation that is frequently diagnosed during and after the pubertal growth period. The posture analysis systems assess the subjects in standing position and detect the key postural deviations. The dynamic balance offers information related to postural stability, fitness performance and injury prevention. The main objective of our study was to identify the abnormal deviations from optimal alignment in anterior, posterior and lateral views in adolescents diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis. Other aim was to analyze the correlation of the postural data anomalies with the dynamic balance test parameters. We included in our study children over the age of 10 years, diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis. All patients were assessed at the beginning of the rehabilitation program for scoliosis correction. GaitON postural system assesses the subjects from multiple views, offering a detailed report of abnormal deviations: anterior (lateral head tilt, shoulder drop, lateral trunk sway, lateral pelvic drop, Q-angle), posterior (rear foot eversion or inversion), right and left lateral (forward head angle, shoulder protraction, genu recurvatum). The Modified Bass Test was used for the assessment of the dynamic balance. The study patients had different degrees of abnormal deviations in the anterior view (shoulder drop, lateral trunk sway, lateral pelvic drop) depending on the type of scoliosis (thoracic or thoraco-lumbar type). They also had deviations in the posterior or/and lateral views (most of them minor or medium) as they presented associated spinal or lower limb misalignment (for example, kyphosis or valgus foot). The Modified Bass Test showed a variety of scores. Adolescents who practiced regular recreational or sport activities had better scores. The assessment of posture in the three views (anterior, posterior and lateral) brings relevant data for an adolescent development. Early detection and correction of abnormal deviations is envisaged. Moreover, the increase in dynamic balance is imperative for a population that should be engaged in various physical and sport activities.