Efficacy of specific SEAS exercises for hyperkyphosis: end-growth results of a controlled prospective study

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this prospective controlled study is to present end-growth results of different exercise for Hyperkyphosis. Background: In scientific literature there are not available papers on exercise in the treatment of adolescent hyperkiphosis. It's possible to find only papers on exercise to avoid progression of kiphosis and risk of fall in elderly age. Nevertheless, this is a diffuse approach to this pathology especially in Europe and Japan. Methods: Study design Controlled prospective study Population 40 adolescent outpatient (19 male, 21 female) with hyperkiphosis were divided into 2 exercise groups and treated with exercise until end-growth. SEAS Groups (18 subjects) treated with specific SEAS exercises at our centres. CONTROL Group (22 subjects) treated with " classical " exercise at different facilities. Outcome criteria -Difference in the number of braces prescribed. -Mean plumbline distances at C7 and L3. -Number of patients clinically changed. According to a previous study we consider clinically significant a change of at least 10 mm. Statistics Anova, t-test, Chi square Results: Three patients in the control group had a brace prescription versus none in the SEAS. No significant statistical differences between pre treatment values in two groups. No significant statistical differences between post treatment values in two groups. Statistically significant Improvement of plumbline distance measures after treatment in both groups. The number of improved patients was significantly higher in the SEAS Group (p<0.05) while the number of worsened patients significantly higher in Controls. Conclusion: Physical exercises to improve hyperkyiphosis in adolescents are effective. The quality of exercises seems to be relevant to reduce brace prescription and to achieve a better result.