İdiyopatik Skolyozlu Adolesanlarda Temel Beden Farkındalığı Eğitimi’nin Postür, Gövde Propriosepsiyonu, Skolyozun Klinik Parametreleri ve Beden Farkındalığı Üzerine Etkisi

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of Basic Body Awareness Therapy (BBAT), applied in addition to scoliosis-specific scientific exercises (SEAS), on posture, trunk proprioception, scoliosis-specific parameters, body awareness, and quality of life in individuals with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). A total of 28 individuals with AIS were included in the study, with a mean age of 14.14±2.74 years in the SEAS group and 14.36±2.24 years in the BBAT group. 14 participants in the SEAS group received 60 minutes of SEAS once a week in the clinic, while 14 participants in the BBAT group underwent the same SEAS program along with an additional 30-minute BBAT session, totaling 60 minutes per session for 16 weeks. Curve patterns, Cobb angles, and trunk rotations were assessed using a scoliometer. The Spinal Appearance Questionnaire (SAQ) was completed by the individual, parent, and physiotherapist. Posterior Trunk Symmetry Index (POTSI) and Anterior Trunk Symmetry Index (ATSI) measurements were conducted through photographic analysis. Trunk proprioception was evaluated using the Trunk Repositioning Test at 15° and 30° and the Lumbar Neutral Positioning Test. The Body Awareness Questionnaire and Awareness of Body Chart (ABC) were applied. Spatial orientation was assessed using the Fukuda Stepping Test. Quality of life was evaluated using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) and the Japanese Scoliosis Questionnaire-27. The results were compared between the two treatment groups. Intergroup comparisons of treatment-induced changes revealed statistically significant differences in favor of the BBAT group in trunk proprioception at 15° (p=0.003), 30° (p=0.041), and neutral

positions (p=0.030); in the total score of the ABC questionnaire (p=0.004), particularly in the neck- lumbar (p=0.000), back (p=0.002), thigh-hip (p=0.006), knee (p=0.009), and foot (p=0.001) regions;

and in the physical health parameter of the PedsQL (p=0.038). However, no statistically significant differences were found between the two groups regarding scoliosis-specific assessments, spatial orientation, SAQ, ATSI, POTSI, the Body Awareness Questionnaire, and the Japanese Scoliosis Questionnaire-27 (p>0.05). This study demonstrated that BBAT, when added to scoliosis-specific exercises in the rehabilitation of individuals with AIS, has positive effects on trunk proprioception, body awareness, and general physical health. Given the identified beneficial effects of BBAT, we recommend incorporating it into AIS rehabilitation programs with the goals of improving proprioception, body awareness, and physical health.