Comparative Effects of Schroth and Core Stabilization Exercises in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

OBJECTIVE: To compare the effects of Schroth and core stabilization exercises on Cobb angle, angle of trunk rotation (ATR), trunk and hip muscle strength, muscle stiffness, respiratory muscle strength, and perceived cosmetic deformity in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). DESIGN: This randomized controlled trial included 38 adolescents with AIS who were randomly allocated to either the Schroth exercise group or the core stabilization exercise group. Both groups participated in a 12-week exercise program. Cobb angle, ATR, trunk and hip muscle strength, muscle stiffness, respiratory muscle strength, and perceived cosmetic deformity were assessed at baseline and post-intervention. RESULTS: Both groups demonstrated significant improvements in trunk and hip muscle strength, with no significant differences between groups. No significant within- or between-group changes were observed in muscle stiffness. The Schroth exercise group showed significantly greater improvements in Cobb angle, ATR, respiratory muscle strength, and perceived cosmetic deformity compared with the core stabilization exercise group (P <0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Schroth exercises were more effective than core stabilization exercises in reducing Cobb angle and ATR, and in improving respiratory muscle strength and perceived cosmetic deformity in AIS.