Schroth exercises to improve shoulder-blade muscle activity in children with thoracic hyperkyphosis
The Effect of Schroth Exercises on Scapular Muscle Activation in Children With Thoracic Hyperkyphosis
This study tests whether an 8-week supervised Schroth exercise program can improve scapular (shoulder-blade) muscle activation in children aged 7–18 with thoracic hyperkyphosis.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 56 (estimated) |
| Ages | 7 Years to 18 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Istanbul University - Cerrahpasa Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Istanbul, Istanbul) |
| Trial ID | NCT06907914 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
In this randomized controlled trial 56 children with postural thoracic hyperkyphosis (Cobb 40°–<70°) will be assigned to either an 8-week supervised Schroth exercise program or a control group receiving postural education. The Schroth program uses individualized three-dimensional postural correction, rotational breathing, and targeted scapular control during functional activities. Primary outcome is scapular muscle activation measured by surface electromyography (sEMG); secondary outcomes include muscle strength, scapular endurance, kyphotic appearance, posture, and pain. Results aim to inform non‑surgical physiotherapy approaches for improving scapular function and posture in this age group.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are children aged 7–18 with postural thoracic kyphosis (Cobb angle 40° to <70°) and ongoing skeletal development (Risser 0–5) who can attend supervised therapy and meet the study's exclusion criteria.
Not a fit: Children with congenital or rigid spinal deformities, recent major spinal surgery, current brace use, high BMI (≥30), frequent upper-extremity sports, sensory or cognitive impairments, systemic or neurological disease, or other exclusion criteria are unlikely to benefit from this protocol.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the program could strengthen scapular stabilizers, improve posture and appearance, reduce pain, and guide preventive and rehabilitation care for children with thoracic hyperkyphosis.
How similar studies have performed: Schroth exercises are commonly used and have shown benefits for spinal alignment and function in scoliosis and kyphosis, but their specific effect on scapular muscle activation is not well studied.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Thoracic kyphosis angle (Cobb) between ≥40° and \<70° on lateral radiographs * Aged 7-18 years * Risser stage 0-5, indicating ongoing skeletal development Exclusion Criteria: * Congenital or rigid spinal deformities/anomalies * Major musculoskeletal surgery or trauma, especially involving the spine * Physiotherapeutic intervention for the spine in the last 6 months * Current brace use * BMI ≥ 30 * Regular upper extremity sports involvement (e.g., swimming, volleyball) at least twice a week for one year * More than 60 minutes of moderate-to-high intensity physical activity per week * Visual impairments or light sensitivity * Positive vestibular (Unterberger) test * Hearing impairments * Cognitive difficulties affecting comprehension * Systemic diseases (diabetes, hypothyroidism, infection, malignancy) * Neurological disorders * Active rheumatic diseases
Where this trial is running
Istanbul, Istanbul
- Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa — Istanbul, Istanbul, Turkey (Türkiye) (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Ayşe Zengin Alpözgen, Assoc Prof. — Istanbul University - Cerrahpasa
- Study coordinator: Kübra Kardeş, PhD
- Email: kubra.koce@istinye.edu.tr
- Phone: 905387115631
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.