NCT06907914

Schroth and Scapular Muscle Activation in Hyperkyphosis

The Effect of Schroth Exercises on Scapular Muscle Activation in Children With Thoracic Hyperkyphosis

• Status: Recruiting
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 56 (estimated)
• Sponsor: Istanbul University - Cerrahpasa · Academic / Other
• Sex: All
• Age: 7 Years – 18 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

This randomized controlled trial aims to investigate the effects of Schroth exercises on scapular muscle activation in children with thoracic hyperkyphosis. A total of 56 participants will be randomly assigned to either the Schroth exercise group or the control group receiving postural education. The intervention group will complete an 8-week supervised Schroth program focusing on three-dimensional correction, rotational breathing, and postural awareness. Primary outcome is scapular muscle activation measured by surface EMG. Secondary outcomes include muscle strength, scapular endurance, kyphotic appearance, posture, and pain. The results will guide clinical management and preventive strategies for children with postural thoracic hyperkyphosis.

Detailed description

This prospective, randomized controlled trial aims to investigate the effects of Schroth-based three-dimensional exercises on scapular muscle activation in children with postural thoracic hyperkyphosis. Thoracic hyperkyphosis, commonly observed during childhood and adolescence, not only leads to spinal deformity but also negatively impacts scapular positioning, upper extremity function, and overall posture. Weakness and poor activation of scapular stabilizing muscles may contribute to the progression of kyphosis and functional limitations. The Schroth method is a scoliosis-specific exercise approach designed to improve spinal alignment through three-dimensional postural correction, rotational breathing, and muscle stabilization techniques. Although widely used for spinal deformities such as scoliosis and kyphosis, its specific effects on scapular muscle activation remain insufficiently studied. This study will explore the potential of Schroth exercises to enhance scapular muscle function, which may contribute to improved posture, increased muscle strength and endurance, better scapular performance, reduced kyphotic appearance, and alleviation of pain. The intervention group will participate in an 8-week supervised exercise program consisting of individualized Schroth exercises, focusing on postural awareness and scapular control during functional activities. By targeting scapular muscle activation, the study seeks to determine whether integrating Schroth exercises into physiotherapy practice can improve clinical outcomes and inform evidence-based approaches for managing postural thoracic hyperkyphosis in the pediatric population. Findings from this study may also contribute to developing preventive health strategies to protect musculoskeletal health in children and adolescents.

Conditions

• Hyperkyphosis, Adolescent
• Muscle Activation
• Scapula; Deformity, Acquired
• Exercise Therapy

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
OTHER	Schroth	The Schroth intervention consists of a structured, three-dimensional exercise program based on scoliosis-specific principles. It incorporates corrective postural alignment, rotational breathing techniques, and targeted activation of spinal and scapular stabilizing muscles. The exercises are designed to improve postural control, enhance muscle endurance, and promote neuromuscular re-education for better functional alignment during daily activities.

Timeline

• Start date: 2025-06-15
• Primary completion: 2026-05-01
• Completion: 2026-08-01
• First posted: 2025-04-02
• Last updated: 2025-10-01

Locations

1 site across 1 country: Turkey (Türkiye)