Evaluating physiotherapy for treating scoliosis in adolescents
Official title: Planning grant for a randomized controlled trial of scoliosis-specific physiotherapy for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11013433 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special type of exercise called the Schroth method can help teenagers with scoliosis by slowing down or preventing their spinal curve from getting worse, and it's designed just for young people dealing with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $87,372 |
| NIH project number | 5R34AR083625-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11013433 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis who are experiencing mild to moderate curvature of the spine.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with severe scoliosis requiring immediate surgical intervention may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), a common spinal deformity in teenagers that can lead to physical and psychological challenges. The study aims to assess the effectiveness of scoliosis-specific physiotherapy, particularly the Schroth method, in slowing down or preventing the progression of this condition. By conducting a randomized controlled trial, the researchers will gather evidence on how these specialized exercises can improve outcomes for adolescents with scoliosis. Patients participating in this trial will receive tailored physiotherapy interventions designed to address their specific needs.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a non-invasive treatment option that may reduce the need for surgery in adolescents with scoliosis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results for physiotherapy approaches in managing scoliosis, indicating that this research builds on existing evidence.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Somers, Emily Catherine — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Somers, Emily Catherine
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.