Knowledge and Management of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: A Survey Among Brazilian Physiotherapists

Purpose: In accordance with the International Society of Scoliosis Orthopedics and Rehabilitation Treatment (SOSORT), conservative management, including exercise therapy, should be the first step to treat adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). For moderate scoliosis, bracing is often indicated in conjunction with exercise therapy to reduce curve progression. Surgical intervention is typically reserved for severe cases (Cobb angle > 45°-50°). While previous research has examined Physical therapy students’ knowledge of AIS, limited research has focused on the knowledge and practices of practicing physical therapists. This study aimed to address this gap by assessing Brazilian physical therapists’ knowledge and management of AIS. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study, and we used an internet-based survey with questions about knowledge and management of AIS. We analyzed the responses in relation to the best available evidence on this topic. We recruited Brazilian registered physical therapists from different regions in Brazil. Participants’ demographics and survey responses were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: A total of 65 Brazilian physical therapists from the 5 regions of the country participated in the study. Physical therapists with specific training to treat scoliosis (STTS) were more assertive compared to physical therapists without STTS in indicating brace in AIS with angles between 26° and 45° ( P = .008) and in not indicating surgical evaluation between 26° and 46° Cobb angle ( P = .002). Conclusion: Brazilian physical therapists generally possess a good understanding of evidence-based AIS treatment approaches, aligning with SOSORT recommendations. Physical therapists with STTS demonstrated superior knowledge and practice patterns, suggesting that STTS is essential for optimal AIS management.