Body Image and Quality-of-Life in Untreated Versus Brace-Treated Females With Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

Pelvic rotation correction combined with Schroth exercises for pelvic and spinal deformities in mild adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: A randomized controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Individualized treatment of spinal deformity is needed for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), and the integration of pelvic rotation correction based on proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) into regular physiotherapy may be a promising approach. However, few high-quality studies have investigated its effects. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of pelvic rotation correction combined with Schroth exercises in the treatment of mild AIS.

METHODS

This was a randomized controlled trial. Forty-two AIS patients were randomly divided into experimental and control groups. Both groups underwent 20 therapeutic sessions over 24 weeks. All patients (n = 42) performed Schroth exercises at each session. In addition, the experimental group (n = 21) also participated in a pelvic rotation correction program based on PNF at each session. The primary outcome was the concave/convex ratio of hipbone widths, and the secondary outcomes included the Cobb angle, trunk rotation angle, self-perception, apical vertebral translation, and apical vertebral rotation. Patients were evaluated before and after 24 weeks of intervention.

RESULTS

There was a significant between-group difference in the change from baseline between the experimental and control groups for the following parameters: concave/convex ratio 2.89% (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.58 to 4.20, P<0.001), trunk rotation angle -1.26° (95% CI, -2.20 to -0.32; P = 0.01), and apical vertebral rotation improved by at least one class from baseline in 3 patients (14.3%) in the control group and 9 patients (42.9%) in the experimental group (P = 0.04). While Cobb angle -1.60° (95% CI, -7.75 to 0.54; P = 0.14), self-image 0.149 (95% CI, 0.001 to 0.297; P = 0.049), apical vertebral translation -0.58 mm (95% CI, -3.83 to 2.67; P = 0.72), and pelvic obliquity 0.10° (95% CI, -0.21 to 0.41; P = 0.52) did not differ significantly.

CONCLUSIONS

Pelvic rotation correction combined with Schroth exercises more effectively improved pelvic axial rotation and other spinal deformities, including trunk rotation and apical vertebral rotation, than Schroth exercises alone in the treatment of mild AIS.

The effect of spinal range of motion on functional balance, quality of life, and perception of appearance in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis after posterior spinal fusion surgery

OBJECTIVE

Spinal fusion, which is widely used in the surgical treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), limits the movements of the vertebral column. In this study, it was aimed to investigate the relationship between spinal mobility in the postoperative period with functional balance, quality of life, and perception of appearance in individuals with AIS.

METHODS

Thirty patients with AIS who underwent posterior spinal fusion surgery 1 to 3 years ago were included in the study. A universal goniometer was used to measure a spinal range of motion (ROM), functional reach test for functional balance, Scoliosis Research Society-30 (SRS-30) for quality of life, and Spinal Appearance Questionnaire (SAQ) for perception of appearance.

RESULTS

Surgical fusion length was significantly correlated with movements in the sagittal and transverse planes (r =  - 0.383-[- 0.608]; p =  < 0.001-0.037). Except for spinal left rotation, there was a significant positive correlation between functional balance level and ROM results (r = 0.374-0.523; p = 0.003-0.42). The SRS-30 total score correlated significantly with all other ROM measures except for rotations (r = 0.434-0.574; p = 0.00-0.016). SAQ total data correlated significantly with all ROM measurements (r =  - 0.553-[- 0.395]; p = 0.002-0.031).

CONCLUSIONS

In AIS, limitation of movement in the coronal, sagittal, and transverse planes is observed after fusion surgery. Spinal ROM is affected by the level of fusion performed at surgery. Postoperative spinal limitation of motion adversely affected functional balance, quality of life, and perception of appearance. We believe that comprehensive rehabilitation approaches that improve postoperative range of motion and increase functionality are important for optimal postoperative recovery.

Translation, Transcultural Adaptation, and Validation of the Brazilian Portuguese Version of the Body Image Disturbance Questionnaire for Scoliosis (BR-BIDQ-S)

Objective  The Body Image Disturbance Questionnaire for Scoliosis (BIDQ-S) for scoliosis derives from the Body Image Disturbance Questionnaire (BIDQ) with specific adaptation for scoliosis patients. Despite its significance and applicability, this instrument has never been translated into Brazilian Portuguese. The current study aimed to translate, transculturally adapt, and validate the BIDQ-S into Brazilian Portuguese. Methods  BIDQ-S was translated and culturally adapted into Brazilian Portuguese using the American Association of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) criteria. The questionnaire validation relied on internal consistency and comparison with the Cobb angle, Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL), and Scoliosis Research Society (SRS-22). The Brazilian version (BR-)BIDQ-S validation occurred in a sample of 35 adolescents with scoliosis waiting for specialized treatment. Results  Internal consistency of the BR-BIDQ-S was 0.899 according to the Cronbach's index (i.e., virtually perfect). Although BR-BIDQ-S did not correlate with the Cobb angle, it presented correlations with the Physical, Emotional, and Social domains from the PedsQL and the Function/Activity domain from the SRS-22. Conclusion  BR-BIDQ-S was reliable in evaluating the body image of adolescents with scoliosis, presenting an internal consistency of 0,899 (virtually perfect). Moreover, similar to the original instrument, it correlated with PedsQL and SRS-22.

Association of Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

Numerous adolescents diagnosed with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) often manifest symptoms indicative of functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs). However, the precise connection between FGIDs and AIS remains unclear. The study involved adolescents drawn from sample datasets provided by the Korean Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service spanning from 2012 to 2016, with a median dataset size of 1,446,632 patients. The AIS group consisted of individuals aged 10 to 19 with diagnostic codes for AIS, while the control group consisted of those without AIS diagnostic codes. The median prevalence of FGIDs in adolescents with AIS from 2012 to 2016 was 24%. When accounting for confounding factors, the analysis revealed that adolescents with AIS were consistently more prone to experiencing FGIDs each year (2012: adjusted odds ratio (aOR), 1.21 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.10-1.35], p < 0.001; 2013: aOR, 1.31 [95% CI, 1.18-1.46], p < 0.001; 2014: aOR, 1.24 [95% CI, 1.12-1.38], p < 0.001; 2015: aOR, 1.34 [95% CI, 1.21-1.49], p < 0.001; and 2016: aOR, 1.35 [95% CI, 1.21-1.50], p < 0.001). These findings suggest that AIS is correlated with an elevated likelihood of FGIDs, indicating that AIS may function as a potential risk factor for these gastrointestinal issues. Consequently, it is recommended to provide counseling to adolescents with AIS, alerting them to the heightened probability of experiencing chronic gastrointestinal symptoms.

Psychosocial Effect of Brace Treatment in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: A Study Using EQ-5D

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate psychosocial effect of brace treatment in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) using EuroQoL 5-dimension (EQ-5D) depression and anxiety category.

BACKGROUND

AIS is a structural abnormality of the spine often affecting patients during the puberty, a critical period of developing psychosocial problems. Many questionnaires had been adapted to evaluate mental health and health-related quality of life of AIS patients. However, these questionnaires are often time consuming and difficult to obtain. Therefore, a simpler substitute-EQ-5D-was evaluated.

METHODS

This is a single-center retrospective cohort analysis of adult idiopathic scoliosis patients aged between 8 and 19, visiting outpatient's clinic. Beck's depression inventory, EQ-5D and EuroQoL visual assessment scale, and Objectified Body Consciousness Scale for Youth were compared between brace group and non-brace group of AIS patients. Furthermore, difference between male and female were evaluated within brace group.

RESULTS

None of the questionnaire showed significant difference between brace and non-brace group. However, when male and female patients were compared within brace group, female patients were significantly more susceptible to depression and anxiety based on EQ-5D and body consciousness. Furthermore, depression and anxiety according to both BDI and EQ-5D were significantly correlated to health-related quality of life.

CONCLUSION

During brace treatment of female AIS patients, psychosocial status played a significant role in health-related quality of life. EQ-5D is a simple way to monitor the mental health status.

Gender-Related Factors Influence the Subjective Perception of Deformity in Patients Undergoing Surgery for Idiopathic Scoliosis

The present study aims to depict the importance of gender-related factors in the subjective perception of spine deformity in adolescents undergoing posterior instrumented fusion for scoliosis. Patients undergoing posterior spinal instrumentation and fusion (PSF) for idiopathic adolescent scoliosis (AIS) were recruited. The following data were recorded: gender, age, parents' civil status, Tegner Activity Scale (TAS), body mass index (BMI), concomitant diseases, and history of neuropsychological disorders. Each patient underwent clinical and radiological evaluations according to the protocol used at our institution. All the patients were assessed before surgery using the following Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs): the Italian version of the revised Scoliosis Research Society-22 patient questionnaire (SRS-22R), the Quality-of-Life Profile for Spinal Deformities (QLPSDs) questionnaire, and the Spinal Appearance Questionnaire (SAQ). The present study recruited 80 patients (male: 19, female: 61). A significant correlation was observed between BMI, TAS, and subjective perception scores. A worse deformity perception was observed in female patients and patients with divorced parents. Gender-related factors impact the subjective perception of spine deformity in patients undergoing PSF for AIS. Specific assessment and correction are needed to improve postoperative outcomes in these patients.

Outcome of bracing vs. surgical treatment in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis based on device measured daily physical activity: a prospective pilot study

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) can be treated with bracing or surgery, which may affect patient's physical activity (PA). However, there are limited objective assessments of PA in patients with AIS. This study aims to compare the outcome of spinal bracing vs. surgery in patients with AIS based on a device that measured daily PA. In total 24 patients with AIS participated, including 12 patients treated with bracing and 12 with spinal surgery. Daily PA was measured throughout 4 consecutive days using four tri-axial accelerometers and patient-reported functional status was reported using the SRS-22 questionnaire. The participants were assessed both before the treatment and after treatment at a 12-month follow-up. Patients with AIS had no significant change in their PA levels at the 12-month follow-up after surgical correction. On the contrary, patients with AIS following a year-long bracing treatment had significantly reduced time spent active ( P  = 0.04) with an average reduction in walking steps by 2137 steps/day ( P  = 0.005). There was no significant difference in function, pain, self-image and mental health domains following both treatments, as reported by the SRS-22. There was a significant improvement in satisfaction for both treatment groups ( P  ≤ 0.02). Significantly reduced PA and increased sedentary time are reported in patients with AIS following bracing treatment. An objective PA assessment is recommended to track the effect of scoliosis treatment on PA. Patients with AIS should be actively encouraged to achieve and maintain their recommended daily PA levels irrespective of the type of treatment. Level of evidence: Level II.

The effect of brace on apical vertebral derotation in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis

PURPOSE

The current study aims to evaluate the effect of Boston brace treatment on apical vertebral derotation in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients receiving conservative treatment.

METHODS

The study included 51 AIS patients, consisting of 8 males and 43 females, with Cobb angles between 25° and 45° and Risser's findings ranging from 0 to 4. The mean age of the participants was 12.20 ± 1.34 years. All patients were treated with the Boston brace for a minimum of 2 years and evaluated before the brace, during early brace use, and at the last follow-up. Radiographs were assessed to measure apical vertebral rotation (AVR) and vertebral translation (AVT). The SRS-22 questionnaire was used to evaluate patient outcomes.

RESULTS

The radiographs of patients were evaluated over a mean follow-up period of 32.42 ± 8.65 months. Before the brace, the mean AVR was 2.1 ± 0.6, while it was 1.1 ± 0.5 with the brace. At the last follow-up, the mean AVR was 1.3 ± 0.5 (p < 0.001). Before the brace, the mean AVT was 36.4 ± 9.6 mm, which decreased to 16.7 ± 7.3 mm with the brace (p < 0.001). At the last follow-up, the mean AVT was 19.8 ± 8.1 mm (p < 0.001). The use of the brace had a significant corrective effect on thoracolumbar and lumbar curvatures compared to before the brace (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The findings of the current study suggest that the use of a Boston brace in the conservative treatment of AIS is effective in correcting the coronal and sagittal plane deformities, including thoracic, thoracolumbar, and lumbar curvatures, and in reducing apical vertebral rotation and translation.

Quality of life among adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis in Tunisia

Introduction

our study aimed to assess the quality of life (QOL) among adolescents with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) receiving nonoperative treatment, and to identify the demographic and clinical factors associated with poor QOL.

Methods

this is a cross-sectional study. We included adolescents followed in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Taher Sfar Hospital (Mahdia - Tunisia). The Quality-of-Life Profile for Spine Deformities (QLPSD), the Scoliosis Research Society 22 questionnaire (SRS-22) and the visual analogue scale objectifying the QOL (EVA QOL) were used. Correlations between the QOL domains and selected characteristics were performed.

Results

a total of 48 adolescents with AIS were included, with a mean age of 14.2 ± 2.1 years and a sex ratio (M/F) of 0.77. Adolescents who underwent rehabilitation treatment only had significantly better quality of life (QOL) scores than those with braces, as measured by three scales. Among brace wearers, we found a correlation between QOL and the degree of correction achieved by the brace, as measured by the EVA-QOL. We observed significant relationships between psychosocial status and age, correction angle, and treatment duration among braced patients, as measured by the QLPSD. Additionally, we found that dorsal flexibility was correlated with the correction angle and the treatment duration. According to the SRS-22, the overall QOL score of braced adolescents was significantly correlated with the correction obtained by the brace.

Conclusion

wearing a brace in adolescent with AIS leads to a significant decrease in QOL according to the three QOL assessment scales.

Back pain in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: A comprehensive review

Purpose

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a common spinal deformity that affects millions of children worldwide. A variety of treatment algorithms exist for patients based on radiographic parameters such as the Cobb angle and the Risser stage. However, there has been a growing focus on nonradiographic outcomes such as back pain, which can cause functional disability and reduced quality of life for patients. In spite of this, back pain in AIS is poorly characterized in the literature. We aimed to summarize various factors that may influence back pain in AIS and the impact of different treatment methods on pain reduction.

Methods

A comprehensive systematic review was undertaken using the PubMed and Cochrane database. Keywords that were utilized and combined with "Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis" included, "back pain," "treatment," "biomechanics," "biochemistry," "epidemiology," and "biopsychosocial." The literature was subsequently evaluated and deemed relevant or not relevant for inclusion.

Results

A total of 93 articles were ultimately included in this review. A variety of contradictory literature was present for all sections related to epidemiology, underlying biomechanics and biochemistry, biopsychosocial factors, and treatment methodologies.

Conclusion

Back pain in AIS is common but remains difficult to predict and treat. The literature pertaining to causative factors and treatment options is heterogeneous and inconclusive. Longer-term prospective studies combining biopsychosocial intervention in conjunction with existing curve correction techniques would be meaningful.

Is higher compliance to brace therapy associated with poorer quality of life and self-image? A 36-months follow-up study

BACKGROUND

Brace treatment is the most effective tool for avoiding curve progression in moderate adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and high adherence is required to achieve therapeutic success. Despite this, the compliance often is impaired by the concern about the psychological well-being of adolescents.

OBJECTIVE

This 36-month follow-up study investigated if the patients most adherent to brace treatment could report a stronger impairment in the quality of life and body image.

METHODS

64 adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis responded to the Scoliosis Research Society-22 revised Patient Questionnaire at 12, 24, and 36 months after prescription of a TLSO rigid brace. Retrospectively, participants who wore a brace for more than 75% of the prescribed time were assigned to the good-compliance group (GC); the others formed the poor-compliance group (PC).

RESULTS

At 12 months the GC group showed higher scores in treatment satisfaction and at 36 months they did not differ from the PC group in the overall SRS-22r score. Moreover, they achieved a statistically significant improvement in the scoliosis severity, although they showed lower scores in the self-image domain.

CONCLUSION

In our patient's cohort, increased brace adherence does not compromise QoL and provides better treatment outcomes. However, more attention is needed to maintain good self-perception.

Factors influencing of quality of life in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis

BACKGROUND

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is the lateral and horizontal deformity of the vertebral column which occurs idiopathically during adolescence. The aim of this study is to identify independent predictors of quality of life in AIS patients.

METHODS

In total, 31 adolescent patients diagnosed with AIS aged between 10 and 18 years old were included in the study. The scoliosis severity was determined for each patient according to the Cobb method, and their scoliosis perception using the Walter Reed Visual Assessment Scale, a pain assessment was conducted based on the Visual Analog Scale, quality of life using the Scoliosis Research Society-22 questionnaire, and depression level according to the Children's Depression Scale. Multiple Linear Regression analysis was then performed in order to determine the independent determinants of health-related quality of life.

FINDINGS

According to the Linear Regression analysis results, children's depression scale, walter reed visual assessment scale, cobb, and anterior trunk rotation explained 52.7% of the variance as independent determinants of SRS-22.

INTERPRETATION

The study examined the determinants affecting the quality of life in AIS patients. The results of the study showed that scoliosis severity, perception of cosmetic deformity, degree of rotation, and depression level to be predictors of quality of life in AIS patients. "This trail registered with NCT05242601."

Bracing Interventions Can Help Adolescents with Idiopathic Scoliosis with Surgical Indication: A Systematic Review

There is a common agreement that bracing is appropriate for curves between 20 and 40° for the Cobb angle during growth, but for larger curves, the experts' opinions are not consistent. We designed this systematic review to report the updated evidence about the effectiveness of bracing in scoliosis patients with curves ≥40° and a residual growth period. We included randomized controlled trials, non-randomized controlled trials, prospective and retrospective observational studies, and case series addressing the effect of bracing in patients with idiopathic scoliosis during growth with curves ≥40° for the Cobb angle, published from 2000 onwards. Outcome: The percentage of patients with surgery, curves above 45° or 50°, and a Cobb angle change are all included in the study. Nine papers (563 patients, average worst curve of 44.8°) are included: four are retrospective case series, two are retrospective and two are prospective cohort studies, and one is a prospective controlled study. The overall quality was good, with respect to the type of design. A total of 32% of the patients improved, 26% were stable, and 42% worsened. The rate of improvement ranged from 11% to 78%; the rate of worsening ranged from 4% to 64%. There are some studies suggesting the use of bracing even in the case of severe curves when patients are motivated by trying to avoid surgery. More and better-quality research with coherent outcome criteria is needed.

Adolescents' Experience during Brace Treatment for Scoliosis: A Qualitative Study

This study aimed to explore the subjective experiences of adolescents with scoliosis during brace treatment in order to understand their obstacles and make recommendations to enhance brace compliance. Using purposive sampling, 15 adolescents (2 males and 13 females) with scoliosis aged from 10 to 16 years old during brace treatment were recruited to participate in semi-structured in-depth interviews. The data were recorded, transcribed, and coded using thematic analysis with the qualitative software NVivo 10. Significant statements and phrases were organized into categories and themes to understand adolescents' experiences during brace treatment for scoliosis. In general, the adolescents acknowledged that compliance with brace treatment was essential to reduce or prevent the progression of spinal curvature and tried their best to comply with the treatment. Regarding their subjective experiences during brace treatment, three themes were identified and emerged as obstacles negatively affecting their brace compliance, including physical discomfort due to brace materials and design, reluctance caused by the brace's visual appearance, and passive patient participation during the treatment process. This study reveals insights into the experiences of adolescents with scoliosis during brace treatment and what they perceive as hindrances to compliance. In order to have better brace compliance, adolescents' feelings and difficulties during brace treatment should be recognized and addressed. Therefore, active patient participation throughout the treatment process, involving the co-design of a customized brace, psychosocial interventions, and personalized appearance style management should be considered and promoted to facilitate a more acceptable bracing experience to achieve better brace compliance.

Nonoperative management of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) using braces

This review presents the state of the art according to the current evidence on nonoperative treatment for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, focusing on bracing. The definition of braces for the treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and a short history are provided. The analysis includes biomechanics, types, existing classifications, indications for treatment, time of brace wear and weaning, adherence, three-dimensional modeling, use of ultrasound imaging for bracing, management of treatment, issue of immediate in-brace correction, and documentation of the outcomes usually assessed for brace treatment, including the quality-of-life issues. According to the current evidence, there are two randomized control trials in favor of bracing. There are insufficient data on the superiority of one brace over another, although it is possible to classify and grade braces for efficacy from nonrigid to rigid and very rigid. Nevertheless, there is consensus on patients' management on the need for teamwork focusing on adherence to treatment, acceptability, and family and patient involvement.

Exploration of Contributory Factors to an Unpleasant Bracing Experience of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis Patients a Quantitative and Qualitative Research

BACKGROUND

To obtain a better understanding of the wearing habits and preferences of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) patients undergoing rigid brace treatment, we examine what factors contribute to patients' perceived discomfort during the treatment.

METHODS

Seventeen AIS patients treated with a rigid brace were recruited. We asked them to complete a questionnaire and participate in an interview study. Finally, we measure the interface corrective force and perceived discomfort with the participants for different positions and assess the correlation.

RESULTS

Our survey reveals that participants scored the lowest in the domains of environmental factors, psycho-spiritual factors, satisfaction, and self-image. Appearance anxiety, physical and psychological discomfort and inconvenience were the three most frequently mentioned problems in the interviews on participants' daily bracing experiences. A significant, moderately positive relationship between corrective force and discomfort level was found only when participants were lying on their left side, but not in any of the other positions. No significant correlation between treatment length and perceived discomfort was found.

CONCLUSIONS

Future work should focus on reducing the psychological burden and the inconvenience of wearing a brace, rather than on reducing physical discomfort resulting from the corrective force.

Evaluation of Self-Perceived Body Image in Adolescents with Mild Idiopathic Scoliosis

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is the most prevalent types of scoliosis, affecting up to 3% of children around the world. The progression of AIS can cause alteration in psychological components such as self-perceived body image and self-identity, which negatively affect the teenager quality of life (QoL). The mainly aim of this cross-sectional study is to investigate how mild AIS impacts self-perceived body image in young people. Fifteen participants (mean age = 14.47 ± 2.825) of both sexes (male = 5; female = 10) with a curve magnitude from 10° up to 25° completed the Scoliosis Research Society Patient Questionnaire (SRS-22), the Trunk Appearance Perception Scale (TAPS) and were subject to spinal analysis and photogrammetry. Results display statistical differences between self-perceived body image and other SRS-22 domains (Hotelling t2= 70.29; F(3,12) = 20.08; p < 0.001). Additionally, the regression model, which better explained the self-perceived variability, was fit by function/activity, pain, and mental health domains (F(4,10) = 4.39; p = 0.029; R2 = 0.545). Although AIS was not severe, it negatively affected participants self-perceived body image. More attention in AIS qualify of life is needed, and early treatments could be necessary to prevent psychological impairments self-perception related.

Cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the Italian Spine Youth Quality of Life (ISYQOL) questionnaire's Arabic version

Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) assessment is considered among the most relevant outcome measures following conservative and surgical interventions for various spinal conditions. Several questions are available to evaluate HRQOL in these conditions. A more recent Italian Spine Youth Quality of Life (ISYQOL) questionnaire was developed for this purpose and showed high validity in measuring HRQOL.To translate and adapt the ISYQOL questionnaire into Arabic language (ISYQOL-Ar) and evaluate its validity and reliability, and to correlate it with the validated revised Scoliosis Research Society (SRS-22r)'s Arabic questionnaire in a cross-sectional multicenter study.The ISYQOL was translated, back-translated, and reviewed by an expert committee. Reliability assessment for the questionnaire domains was performed using Cronbach's alpha. For construct validation, the Pearson's correlation coefficient was used.A total of 115 patients were enrolled in the study and completed the ISYQOL-Ar and Arabic SRS-22r questionnaires. A total of 72 patients (63%) completed the first set of questionnaires, and 2 weeks later, 63 patients (55%) completed both sets of questionnaires, with 15.8 a mean age, 39.5° mean Cobb angle of 88.9% females. ISYQOL-Ar showed excellent validity, good reliability, and internal consistency for spine health and brace wear, with Cronbach's alpha > 0.6, similar to SRS-22r in the same cohort. The correlation was significant between ISYQOL-Ar and Arabic SRS-22r (Pearson's coefficient = 0.708, P < .001).The ISYQOL-Ar questionnaire is a reliable and valid outcome measure for the assessment of young patients with spinal deformity among the Arabic-speaking population.

What factor induces stress in patients with AIS under brace treatment? Analysis of a specific factor using exploratory factor analysis

BACKGROUND

Stress from brace treatment in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) can deteriorate their quality of life. A Japanese version of the Bad Sobernheim Stress Questionnaire-Brace (JBSSQ-brace) was developed to assess the stress from brace treatment for Japanese patients with AIS. However, the specific factors causing stress under brace treatment have remained unknown.

METHOD

We enrolled 69 consecutive Japanese patients with AIS. Stress from brace treatment was assessed by JBSSQ-brace and Scoliosis Research Society-22 (SRS-22) instruments. The correlations of JBSSQ-brace with SRS-22 score, patient demographics and Cobb angle were analyzed by Spearman's rank correlation. Exploratory factor analysis was used to determine the psychological factor causing stress from brace treatment.

RESULTS

JBSSQ-brace score was correlated with total score of SRS-22, self-image and mental health domain, but not age, degree of curvature, or other domains of the SRS-22. Factor analysis detected one underlying factor, which was more related to Questions 4 or 5 with the factor loadings of 0.8 than Questions 1 or 6 with loadings of 0.65.

CONCLUSION

Stress from brace treatment was not associated with age, spinal curve severity, pain, or satisfaction of treatment. Exploratory factor analysis suggested "anxious feeling about how we are perceived by others" induces the stress from brace treatment in Japanese patients with AIS.

Six-Month Results on Treatment Adherence, Physical Activity, Spinal Appearance, Spinal Deformity, and Quality of Life in an Ongoing Randomised Trial on Conservative Treatment for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (CONTRAIS)

Adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) often receive conservative treatments aiming to prevent progression of the spinal deformity during puberty. This study aimed to explore patient adherence and secondary outcomes during the first 6 months in an ongoing randomised controlled trial of three treatment interventions. Interventions consisted of physical activity combined with either hypercorrective Boston brace night shift (NB), scoliosis-specific exercise (SSE), or physical activity alone (PA). Measures at baseline and 6 months included angle of trunk rotation (ATR), Cobb angle, International Physical Activity Questionnaire short form (IPAQ-SF), pictorial Spinal Appearance Questionnaire (pSAQ), Scoliosis Research Society (SRS-22r), EuroQol 5-Dimensions Youth (EQ-5D-Y) and Visual Analogue Scale (EQ-VAS). Patient adherence, motivation, and capability in performing the intervention were reported at 6 months. The study included 135 patients (111 females) with AIS and >1-year estimated remaining growth, mean age 12.7 (1.4) years, and mean Cobb angle 31 (±5.3). At 6 months, the proportion of patients in the groups reporting high to very high adherence ranged between 72 and 95%, while motivation ranged between 65 and 92%, with the highest proportion seen in the NB group (p = 0.014, p= 0.002). IPAQ-SF displayed significant between group main effects regarding moderate activity (F = 5.7; p = 0.004; ηp2 = 0.10), with a medium-sized increase favouring the SSE group compared to NB. Walking showed significant between group main effects, as did metabolic equivalent (MET-min/week), with medium (F = 6.8, p = 0.002; ηp2 = 0.11, and large (F = 8.3, p = < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.14) increases, respectively, for the SSE and PA groups compared to NB. From baseline to 6 months, ATR showed significant between group medium-sized main effects (F = 1.2, p = 0.019, ηp2 = 0.007) favouring the NB group compared to PA, but not reaching a clinically relevant level. In conclusion, patients reported high adherence and motivation to treatment, especially in the NB group. Patients in the SSE and PA groups increased their physical activity levels without other clinically relevant differences between groups in other clinical measures or patient-reported outcomes. The results suggest that the prescribed treatments are viable first-step options during the first 6 months.

Schroth exercises improve health-related quality of life and radiographic parameters in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients

Background:

Finding an optimal treatment strategy for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients remains challenging because of its intrinsic complexity. For mild to moderate scoliosis patients with lower skeletal growth potential (Risser 3–5), most clinicians agree with observation treatment; however, the curve progression that occurs during puberty, the adolescent period, and even in adulthood, remains a challenging issue for clinicians. The aim of the study is to investigate the efficacy of Schroth exercise in AIS patients with lower skeletal growth potential (Risser 3–5) and moderate scoliosis (Cobb angle 20°–40°).

Methods:

From 2015 to 2017, data of 64 patients diagnosed with AIS in Peking University Third Hospital were reviewed. Forty-three patients underwent Schroth exercise were classified as Schroth group, and 21 patients underwent observation were classified as observation group. Outcomes were measured by health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and radiographic parameters. HRQOL was assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS) scores for back, Scoliosis Research Society-22 (SRS-22) patient questionnaire. Radiographic spinopelvic parameters were obtained from anteroposterior and lateral X-rays. The pre-treatment and post-treatment HRQOL and radiographic parameters were tested to validate Schroth exercise efficacy. The inter-rater reliability of the radiographic parameters was tested using the interclass correlation coefficient (ICC). The paired t test was used to examine HRQOL and radiographic parameters. Clinical relevance between C2-C7 sagittal vertical axis (SVA) and thoracic kyphosis was analyzed using Spearman correlation.

Results:

In Schroth group, VAS back score, SRS-22 pain, and SRS-22 self-image domain were significantly improved from pre-treatment 3.0 ± 0.8, 3.6 ± 0.5, and 3.5 ± 0.7 to post-treatment 1.6 ± 0.6 (t = 5.578, P = 0.013), 4.0 ± 0.3 (t = −3.918, P = 0.001), and 3.7 ± 0.4 (t = −6.468, P < 0.001), respectively. No significant improvements of SRS-22 function domain (t = −2.825, P = 0.088) and mental health domain (t = −3.174, P = 0.061) were observed. The mean Cobb angle decreased from 28.9 ± 5.5° to 26.3 ± 5.2° at the final follow-up, despite no statistical significance was observed (t = 1.853, P = 0.102). The mean C2-C7 SVA value decreased from 21.7 ± 8.4 mm to 17.0 ± 8.0 mm (t = −1.224 P = 0.049) and mean T1 tilt decreased from 4.9 ± 4.2 ° to 3.5 ± 3.1° (t = 2.913, P = 0.011). No significant improvement of radiographic parameters and HRQOL were observed in observation group.

Conclusions:

For AIS patients with a Risser 3–5 and a Cobb angle 20°–40°, Schroth exercises improved HRQOL and halted curve progression during the follow-up period. Both cervical spine alignment and shoulder balance were also significantly improved after Schroth exercises. We recommend Schroth exercises for patients with AIS.

Is There an Association Between Psychiatric Disorders and Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis? A Large-database Study

BACKGROUND

Children with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) have reduced quality of life related to poor self-image, perhaps because of cosmetic concerns. However, there has not been a large-database epidemiologic study on the association between psychiatric disorders and scoliosis.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

Using the Korean National Health Insurance database, we asked: (1) How common are psychiatric disorders among children with AIS? (2) After controlling for gender, age, insurance type, and residential district, are psychiatric disorders more common among children with AIS than among age-matched controls?

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted using sample datasets from the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service from 2012 to 2016, which is a 10% randomly extracted sample of total inpatients and outpatients each year. The mean number of total patients in each dataset was 1,047,603 ± 34,534. The mean number of children with AIS was 7409 ± 158 for each year. The age criteria was 10 to 19 years for the matching. Mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and behavioral disorders were selected as disorders possibly associated with AIS. We identified children with AIS who had any of the disorders above, and we obtained the prevalence of these disorders based on diagnostic codes. As an exploratory analysis, clinically meaningful variables were selected among the available codes in the dataset, and a univariable logistic regression test was performed for each variable. A multivariable logistic regression test with advanced variables was performed to identify the adjusted odds ratios of psychiatric disorders in children with AIS.

RESULTS

The median (range) prevalence of psychiatric disorders in children with AIS from 2012 to 2016 was 7% (6% to 7%). Compared with children who did not have AIS, and after controlling for gender, age, insurance type, and residential district, children with AIS were more likely to have psychiatric disorders in all 5 years. The adjusted ORs of psychiatric disorders in children with AIS compared with children who did not have AIS ranged from 1.47 to 1.74 (2012: OR 1.60 [95% CI 1.46 to 1.75]; p < 0.001; 2013: OR 1.73 [95% CI 1.58 to 1.89]; p < 0.001; 2014: OR 1.74 [95% CI 1.59 to 1.91]; p < 0.001; 2015: OR 1.71 [95% CI 1.56 to 1.88]; p < 0.001; 2016: OR 1.47 [95% CI 1.33 to 1.62]; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Considering the higher prevalence of psychiatric disorders in children with AIS compared with children who did not have AIS, children with AIS and their parents should be counseled about the increased risk of deteriorating mental health of the patients, and surgeons should provide early referral to pediatric psychiatrists. Further studies should investigate the effect of the factors related to AIS, such as curve type, Cobb angle, and treatment modality.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, prognostic study.

Novel questionnaire to enhance brace wear adherence in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and the relationship of the quality of life

Bracing is an effective non-operative treatment, in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). The relationship between patients’ quality of life (QOL) and brace wear adherence has been reported. This study aims to determine brace wear adherence for AIS patients with novel questionnaire. A nested case-control study was conducted, included patient age 10-18 years, coronal Cobb angle 20-50°, and Risser grade 0-3. Correlation between patients’ QOL and the average hours of daily brace-wear were determined. Patients were divided into 3 groups based on brace wear adherence and were compared. QOL domains associated with the incompleteness of brace-wearing were determined by Cox proportional-hazards regression. Mean age of patients was 13.3 years (range 11-17.3 years) with initial Cobb angle of 33.5° (range 20-48°). There were significant negative correlations between total QOL scores and brace wearing time. Increased social domain scores was significantly associated with less brace wearing time (HR 1.5, 95% CI 1.12-2.04). Significant correlations between patients’ QOL and the average hours per day of brace wear. Poor social QOL have a significant impact on brace wear adherence.

Quality of life of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients under brace treatment: a brief communication of literature review

PURPOSE

To identify the life domains that are most frequently reported to be affected in scoliosis patients undergoing brace treatment.

METHODS

A search within the PubMed database was conducted and a total of 60 publications were selected. We classified the studies based on the methods used to measure patients' quality of life (QoL) and categorized the life domains reported to be affected.

RESULTS

Self-image/body configuration was the most reported affected domain of patients' QoL, identified in 32 papers, whilst mental health/stress was the second most reported affected domain. Mental health was identified in 11 papers, and 11 papers using the BSSQ questionnaire reported medium stress amongst their participants. Vitality was the third most reported affected domain, identified in 12 papers.

CONCLUSIONS

Our review indicates that scoliotic adolescents treated with bracing suffer in their quality of life most from psychological burdens. To improve these patients' life quality, more attention should be focussed on supporting their mental health.

Anterior vertebral body tethering shows mixed results at 2-year follow-up

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective chart review.

OBJECTIVE

To report 2-4-year outcomes of anterior vertebral body tethering (AVBT) for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). AVBT is a relatively new procedure to correct AIS spine curvature and few outcomes studies have been published.

METHODS

Patients from 2015 to 2017 with 2-year follow-up were included. Successful outcomes were defined as curves 35° or less without revision surgery. We also compared outcomes between thoracic and lumbar ABVT.

RESULTS

There were 19 AVBTs in 17 patients, 13 thoracic and 6 lumbar. Nine curves (47%) in nine patients (53%) were successful. Preoperative kyphosis averaged 26° in the successful group and 14° in the unsuccessful group (P = 0.0337). Immediate correction for lumbar ABVTs (76%) was greater than thoracic ABVTs (43%) (P = 0.0140). Correction per level per month was greater in lumbar ABVTs (2.9° vs. 0.1°) (0.0440). Preoperative Sanders Maturity Scale (SMS) was 3.7 for successful cases and 2.5 for unsuccessful cases (P = 0.0232). Final SMS was 7.7 for successful cases and 5.7 for unsuccessful cases (P = 0.0518). All successful cases and 50% of unsuccessful cases were mature at final follow-up (P = 0.0294). There were four (24%) revision procedures, and three involving lumbar AVBTs. There were nine (47%) broken tethers.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite several final curves > 35°, four revisions, and nine broken tethers, the majority of patients (53%) were considered successful. Lumbar ABVTs correct more intraoperatively and faster postoperatively. Patients who are tethered during or slightly after the curve acceleration phase of growth may have more successful outcomes than patients tethered prior to the curve acceleration phase. AVBT requires further study with longer outcomes to define best practices for indications, level selections, and surgical techniques.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Double-sided vertebral body tethering of double adolescent idiopathic scoliosis curves: radiographic outcomes of the first 13 patients with 2 years of follow-up

PURPOSE

In skeletally immature patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), vertebral body tethering (VBT) as a fusionless minimally invasive treatment option has been shown to correct the deformity by growth modulation. This prospective cohort study aimed to present the minimum 2 years' results of double-sided VBT applied to double curves of 13 skeletally immature patients with AIS.

METHODS

Thirteen skeletally immature patients with AIS and double curves were included. All patients were followed up within a brace for at least 6 weeks. A decision to proceed with surgery was established after the detection of curve progression within the brace (> 40° thoracic, > 35° lumbar) with a minimum curve flexibility of 30%.

RESULTS

Patients had an average age of 11.8 years, average follow-up duration of 36.4 months (range 24 to 46), average preoperative main thoracic/thoracolumbar or lumbar curve magnitudes of 48.2°/45.3°. An average of 11.8 levels of tethering was undertaken. Thoracic screws were placed thoracoscopically, while mini-thoracotomy/lumbotomy was added for thoracolumbar levels. Postoperatively, an average first erect thoracic/thoracolumbar major curve magnitudes of 17.3°/14.3° were acquired, while they improved to 9.7°/8.2° at the last follow-up. No neurologic or implant-related complications were acquired.

CONCLUSION

Double-sided VBT was detected to provide 80% of thoracic (48.2° to 9.7°) and 82% of thoracolumbar-lumbar curve correction (45.3° to 8.2°) as a result of average two years. As being a growth modulating treatment option, double-sided VBT as applied under strict inclusion criteria was shown to be safe and effective for the correction of double curves in skeletally immature patients with AIS, by yielding a gradual, growth-assisted correction of both curves together with the preservation of coronal-sagittal balance without any major complications.

Body image disturbance, psychosocial adjustment and quality of life in adolescents with amputation

BACKGROUND

Physical and emotional situations experienced by amputees can affect body image and quality of life (QoL). Although adolescence is a time when appearance becomes more important, there are insufficient studies in literature examining the effect of body image disturbance (BID) on QoL and psychosocial adjustment in adolescents with amputation.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the BID, psychosocial adjustment and QOL in adolescents with amputation.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included individuals aged 11-18 years with amputation. The Amputee Body Image Scale was used to determine BID, the psychosocial adjustment subscale of Trinity Amputation and Prosthesis Experience Scale was used to investigate the psychosocial adjustment to amputation, and the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory was used to determine the QoL.

RESULTS

Evaluation was made of 42 adolescents (26 boys, 16 girls) with a mean age of 14.24 ± 2.25 years. Significant correlations were found between BID and age of fitting of the first prosthesis, psychosocial adjustment and QoL (p < 0.05). 38% of the variance of QoL was predicted by perceived body image and income of the family. 34% of the variance of psychosocial adjustment was predicted by perceived body image (p < 0.05). Adolescents suffering phantom limb pain were seen to have lower QoL scores (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

BID is an important predictor of psychosocial adjustment and QoL in adolescent amputees. Therefore, a prosthesis that ensures the integrity of the body image should be fitted at an as early age as possible before the onset of body image disorder.

Screening for scoliosis - New recommendations, old dilemmas, no straight solutions

This opinion review considers the prevailing question of whether to screen or not to screen for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. New and improved standards of people-oriented care and person-centredness, as well as improved principles of preventive screening and guideline development, have been postulated and implemented in health care systems and cultures. Recommendations addressing screening for scoliosis differ substantially, in terms of their content, standards of development and screening principles. Some countries have discontinued issuing recommendations. In the last decade, a number of updated and new recommendations and statements have been released. Systematically developed guidelines and recommendations are confronted by consensus and opinion-based statements. The dilemmas and discrepancies prevail. The arguments concentrate on the issues of the need for early detection through screening in terms of the effectiveness of early treatment, on costs and cost-effectiveness issues, scientific and epidemiologic value of screenings, and the credibility of the sources of evidence. The problem matter is of global scale and applies to millions of people. It regards clinical and methodological dilemmas, but also the matter of vulnerable and fragile time of adolescence and, more generally, children's rights. The decisions need to integrate people's values and preferences - screening tests need to be acceptable to the population, and treatments need to be acceptable for patients. Therefore we present one more crucial, but underrepresented in the discussion, issue of understanding and implementation of the contemporary principles of person-centred care, standards of preventive screening, and guideline development, in the context of screening for scoliosis.

Body Awareness and its Relation to Quality of Life in Individuals with Idiopathic Scoliosis

An individual's body awareness depends on the integration of bodily signals from both inside and outside the body. The etiology of idiopathic scoliosis includes a variety of somatosensorial and biomechanical alterations that may affect an individual's body awareness. In this study, we investigated body awareness and its relation to quality of life among individuals with idiopathic scoliosis. We studied 96 participants with scoliosis and 71 healthy control participants. We evaluated both participant groups' body awareness using the Awareness-Body-Chart, and we assessed the quality of life of those with scoliosis using the Scoliosis Research Society-22 (SRS-22) questionnaire. The overall body awareness score and the body awareness values for the face, cervical/lumbar region, back, shoulder, upper arm, lower arm/elbow, hand, genital area, thigh/hip, lower leg, and foot were all found to be significantly lower among the participants with scoliosis than among healthy participants. Among participants with scoliosis, the body awareness value for the back region was positively correlated with pain, body image, mental health, and overall quality of life scores on the SRS-22, whereas the pain score on the Awareness-Body-Chart was negatively correlated with the function/activity, pain, mental health, and overall scores for the SRS-22. This study showed that participants with idiopathic scoliosis have poorer body awareness than control participants without scoliosis, and body awareness among participants with scoliosis was correlated with their self-reports of pain, body image, function, and mental health. These findings highlight the particular importance of body awareness to quality of life for individuals with scoliosis.

Combined aerobic and resistance training improves respiratory and exercise outcomes more than aerobic training in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis: a randomised trial

QUESTION

In adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis, does combined aerobic and resistance training improve respiratory function, perceived exertion and functional exercise capacity more than aerobic training only?

DESIGN

Randomised controlled trial with concealed allocation, blinded assessors and intention-to-treat analysis.

PARTICIPANTS

Forty adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis and formal indication for surgical correction (spinal curvature ≥ 45 deg).

INTERVENTION

Both groups undertook three 60-minute training sessions per week for 12 weeks. The experimental group performed combined aerobic and resistance training and the control group performed only aerobic training.

OUTCOME MEASURES

At baseline and upon completion of treatment, participants completed: a 6-minute walk test with Borg scale (0 to 10) rating of exertion, spirometry, maximal respiratory pressures and peak expiratory flow measurement.

RESULTS

After 12 weeks of training, the experimental group improved more than the control group on the 6-minute walk test (MD 22 m, 95% CI 4 to 40), with lower perceived exertion at the end of the test (MD -1.2, 95% CI -1.9 to -0.4). The experimental group also improved more than the control group on several respiratory measures, including: FEV₁ (MD 270 ml, 95% CI 30 to 510), maximal inspiratory pressure (MD 4 cmH₂O, 95% CI 1 to 8) and peak expiratory flow (MD 33 l/minute, 95% CI 7 to 58).

CONCLUSION

In adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis, combined aerobic and resistance training improves functional exercise capacity and several respiratory outcomes more than a similar training regimen with aerobic training only. It is unclear whether the magnitude of the benefits is large enough to be worthwhile.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT02413788.

Mapping the evidence of experiences related to adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a scoping review protocol

INTRODUCTION

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, the diagnosis and management of this condition, may lead to poorer body image and diminished psychosocial functioning. Furthermore, treatment, especially bracing and surgery as well as screening, remain controversial and debated, with an unclear evidence base. Personal experiences in terms of issues such as person-centred care, shared decision making, and patient and public involvement, are contemporarily recognised as highly valued. Nonetheless, people's experiences related to adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is an issue underrepresented in current systematic reviews and systematically developed recommendations. There appears a substantial imbalance between a vast amount of biomedical research reports, and sporadic biopsychosocial publications in this field. The objective of this planned scoping review is to explore and map the available evidence from various sources to address a broad question of what is known about experiences of all those touched, directly and indirectly, by the problem of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

We based our protocol on the Joanna Briggs Institute's scoping review method, including the Population - Concept - Context framework, to formulate the objectives, research questions, eligibility criteria and conduct characteristics of the study. We will consider any primary study designs, research synthesis reports, as well as narrative reviews and opinion pieces. We will not restrict eligible publications to English language. Search and selection processes will include academic and grey literature searches using multiple electronic databases, search engines and websites, hand searches, and contacting the authors. We will use a customised data charting table and present a narrative synthesis of the results.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Scoping review is a secondary study, aiming at synthesising data from publicly available publications, hence it does not require ethical approval. We will submit the report to a peer-reviewed journal and disseminate it among professionals involved in scoliosis management, guideline and recommendation development, and policymaking.

Partially randomised patient preference trials as an alternative design to randomised controlled trials: systematic review and meta-analyses

OBJECTIVE

Randomised controlled trials (RCT) are the gold standard to provide unbiased data. However, when patients have a treatment preference, randomisation may influence participation and outcomes (eg, external and internal validity). The aim of this study was to assess the influence of patients' preference in RCTs by analysing partially randomised patient preference trials (RPPT); an RCT and preference cohort combined.

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analyses.

DATA SOURCES

MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO and the Cochrane Library.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR SELECTING STUDIES

RPPTs published between January 2005 and October 2018 reporting on allocation of patients to randomised and preference cohorts were included.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

Two independent reviewers extracted data. The main outcomes were the difference in external validity (participation and baseline characteristics) and internal validity (lost to follow-up, crossover and the primary outcome) between the randomised and the preference cohort within each RPPT, compared in a meta-regression using a Wald test. Risk of bias was not assessed, as no quality assessment for RPPTs has yet been developed.

RESULTS

In total, 117 of 3734 identified articles met screening criteria and 44 were eligible (24 873 patients). The participation rate in RPPTs was >95% in 14 trials (range: 48%-100%) and the randomisation refusal rate was >50% in 26 trials (range: 19%-99%). Higher education, female, older age, race and prior experience with one treatment arm were characteristics of patients declining randomisation. The lost to follow-up and cross-over rate were significantly higher in the randomised cohort compared with the preference cohort. Following the meta-analysis, the reported primary outcomes were comparable between both cohorts of the RPPTs, mean difference 0.093 (95% CI -0.178 to 0.364, p=0.502).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients' preference led to a substantial proportion of a specific patient group refusing randomisation, while it did not influence the primary outcome within an RPPT. Therefore, RPPTs could increase external validity without compromising the internal validity compared with RCTs.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42019094438.

Long-term Impacts of Brace Treatment for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis on Body Composition, Paraspinal Muscle Morphology, and Bone Mineral Density

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective, long-term follow-up study.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to investigate the long-term impacts of brace treatment for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) on the musculoskeletal system.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Although full-time brace treatment is the mainstay of conservative treatment for AIS, the restrictive nature of brace treatment for lumbosacral motion might negatively affect the musculoskeletal system.

METHODS

Of 319 patients treated nonoperatively for AIS, 80 patients completed clinical and imaging examinations. Body composition, including body fat mass, lean mass, fat percent, and muscle mass, was estimated via bioelectrical impedance analysis. Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured at the lumbar spine and left hip. In 73 patients, the measurement of cross-sectional area and fatty degeneration of paraspinal muscles at the superior endplate of L4 were performed using axial T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging. Patients were divided into the full-time brace (FB; >13 hours per day) and nonfull-time brace (NFB; observation, part-time bracing, or drop out from FB within a year) groups.

RESULTS

There were 44 patients in the FB group and 36 in the NFB group. Patients in the FB group were significantly younger at the initial visit (12.7 ± 1.3 years) and older at the final follow-up (41.5 ± 5.6 years) than those in the NFB group (14.2 ± 3.2 and 37.4 ± 7.1 years, respectively; P < 0.01). The rate of patients engaging in mild or moderate sports activity in adulthood tended to be higher in the FB group (47.7%) than in the NFB group (25%) (P = 0.11). However, there were no significant differences in body composition, paraspinal muscle morphology, and BMD between the two groups both before and after adjusting for age.

CONCLUSION

Full-time brace wearing during adolescence did not have any negative impacts on the musculoskeletal system in adulthood. This information will be helpful for improving the compliance of full-time bracing.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4.

Noncontact sports participation in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: effects on parent-reported and patient-reported outcomes

Comparing risks against benefits of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients participating in sports represents a controversial topic in the literature. Previous studies have reported sports participation as a possible risk factor for AIS development, while others describe its functional benefits for AIS athletes. The objective of this study was to determine if sports participation had an impact on pain, function, mental status, and self-perception of deformity in patients and their parents. Patients had full spine radiographs and completed baseline surveys of demographics, socioeconomics, and patient-reported outcomes (PRO): Scoliosis Research Society (SRS)-30, Body Image Disturbance Questionnaire, and Spinal Appearance Questionnaire (SAQ: Children and Parent). Patients were grouped by their participation (sports) or nonparticipation (no-sports) in noncontact sports. Demographics, radiographic parameters, and PRO were compared using parametric/nonparametric tests with means/medians reported. Linear regression models identified significant predictors of PRO. Forty-nine patients were included (sports: n=29, no-sports: n=20). Both groups had comparable age, sex, BMI, bracing status, and history of physical therapy (all P>0.05). Sports and no-sports also had similar coronal deformity (major Cobb: 31.1° vs. 31.5°). Sagittal alignment profiles (pelvic incidence, pelvic incidence minus lumbar lordosis, thoracic kyphosis, and sagittal vertical axis) were similar between groups (all P>0.05). Sports had better SRS-30 (Function, Self-image, and Total) scores, SAQ-Child Expectations, and SAQ-Parent Total Scores (P<0.05). Regression models revealed major Cobb angle (β coefficient: -0.312) and sports participation (β coefficient: 0.422) as significant predictors of SRS-30 Function score (R=0.434, P<0.05). Our data show that for AIS patients with statistically similar bracing status and coronal and sagittal deformities, patients who participated in sports were more likely to have improved functionality, self-image, expectations, and parental perception of deformity. Further investigation is warranted to acquire a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between AIS and patient participation in sports. Maintaining moderate levels of physical activity and participating in safe sports may benefit treatment outcomes. Level of Evidence III - Retrospective Comparative Study.

Reliability and Concurrent Validity of a Culturally Adapted Persian Version of the Brace Questionnaire in Adolescents With Idiopathic Scoliosis

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the validity and reliability of culturally adapted Persian version of the Brace Questionnaire (P-BrQ).

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

The BrQ has proved to be a reliable and valid instrument for evaluating the quality of life of adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis and has been translated to different languages. But, lack of a Persian translated version makes its use impractical in the Persian speaking scoliotic patients.

METHODS

Forward and backward translation of P-BrQ was conducted according to the International Quality of Life Assessment guidelines. The final version of the P-BrQ was administered to 51 adolescents (1 boy and 50 girls) with idiopathic scoliosis. The mean age of the participants was 13.88 ± 2.14 years. The questionnaire's internal consistency was determined using Cronbach's alpha. A subgroup of 38 participants were randomly selected to complete the BrQ for a second time one week later. The test-retest reliability was then analyzed using the intraclass correlation coefficient, while the concurrent validity was assessed by comparing the BrQ with the Scoliosis Research Society-22 questionnaire.

RESULTS

The total Cronbach's alpha coefficient of the P-BrQ was 0.96, and the overall intraclass correlation coefficient of the questionnaire was also 0.96. The intraclass correlation coefficients for the corresponding domains were as follows: general health perception, 0.96; physical functioning, 0.96; emotional functioning, 0.98; self-esteem, 0.80; vitality, 0.97; school activity, 0.98; pain, 0.97; and social functioning, 0.98.

CONCLUSIONS

The culturally adapted Persian version of the BrQ can be used to assess the quality of life of adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis who wear a brace.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II.

Extent of Depression in Juvenile and Adolescent Patients with Idiopathic Scoliosis During Treatment with Braces

OBJECTIVE

We compared the depression levels of juvenile and adolescent patients with idiopathic scoliosis who had undergone bracing and identified the factors that influenced the extent of depression in these patients.

METHODS

Our study included 112 patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) and 96 patients with juvenile idiopathic scoliosis (JIS). The demographic characteristics and Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale, Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, and Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale for Children scores were evaluated to select the relative factors of depression in patients and parents. Cognitive evaluations, using the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Revised scale, and an independent evaluation using the Functional Independence Measure for Children scale, were conducted.

RESULTS

The mean Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale for Children score in the AIS group (38.3 ± 3.0) was greater than that in the JIS group (23.8 ± 4.6), a statistically significant difference (P < 0.05). Age at initial bracing, bracing duration, parental depression, Cobb angle at initial bracing, cognitive function, independence, peer problems, prosocial behaviors, emotional symptoms, and total difficulties were significant factors in our regression model for JIS. The AIS patients showed similar results, except for the age at initial bracing, cognitive function, and independence.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with AIS and JIS who had undergone bracing showed differences in the extent of depression, and female adolescents were more vulnerable to depressive psychological status. Higher levels of cognitive function and independence and older age at bracing, longer bracing duration, larger Cobb angle, negative parental attitudes, and undesirable Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire scores contributed to greater depression.

Impact of Scoliosis Severity on Functional Capacity in Patients With Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

PURPOSE

The aim of this study is to evaluate the walked distance and physiological responses during incremental shuttle walk test in patients with different degrees of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS).

METHODS

We evaluated 20 healthy teenagers and 46 patients with AIS; they were divided into 2 groups: AIS > 45° and AIS < 45°. The volunteers performed an incremental shuttle walk test, and the following physiological responses were quantified: oxygen consumption, tidal volume, ventilation, and the incremental shuttle walked distance. Respiratory muscle strength was quantified, pulmonary function test was performed, and the forced vital capacity and expiratory volume in the first second were obtained.

RESULTS

Patients with AIS > 45° presented significant reduced incremental shuttle walked distance compared with the AIS < 45° and control group [447 (85), 487 (95), and 603 (85), respectively]. Patients with AIS also showed reduced forced vital capacity (P = .001) and expiratory volume in the first second (P = .005) compared with control group. Moderate correlations between forced vital capacity (r = -.506) and tidal volume (r = -.476) with scoliosis angles were found.

CONCLUSIONS

The incremental shuttle walk test was capable of identifying reduced functional capacity in patients with different degrees of AIS. Moreover, the severity of spinal curvature may exert influence on ventilatory and metabolic variables.

2016 SOSORT guidelines: orthopaedic and rehabilitation treatment of idiopathic scoliosis during growth

BACKGROUND

The International Scientific Society on Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment (SOSORT) produced its first guidelines in 2005 and renewed them in 2011. Recently published high-quality clinical trials on the effect of conservative treatment approaches (braces and exercises) for idiopathic scoliosis prompted us to update the last guidelines' version. The objective was to align the guidelines with the new scientific evidence to assure faster knowledge transfer into clinical practice of conservative treatment for idiopathic scoliosis (CTIS).

METHODS

Physicians, researchers and allied health practitioners working in the area of CTIS were involved in the development of the 2016 guidelines. Multiple literature reviews reviewing the evidence on CTIS (assessment, bracing, physiotherapy, physiotherapeutic scoliosis-specific exercises (PSSE) and other CTIS) were conducted. Documents, recommendations and practical approach flow charts were developed using a Delphi procedure. The process was completed with the Consensus Session held during the first combined SOSORT/IRSSD Meeting held in Banff, Canada, in May 2016.

RESULTS

The contents of the new 2016 guidelines include the following: background on idiopathic scoliosis, description of CTIS approaches for various populations with flow-charts for clinical practice, as well as literature reviews and recommendations on assessment, bracing, PSSE and other CTIS. The present guidelines include a total of 68 recommendations divided into following topics: bracing (n = 25), PSSE to prevent scoliosis progression during growth (n = 12), PSSE during brace treatment and surgical therapy (n = 6), other conservative treatments (n = 2), respiratory function and exercises (n = 3), general sport activities (n = 6); and assessment (n = 14). According to the agreed strength and level of evidence rating scale, there were 2 recommendations on bracing and 1 recommendation on PSSE that reached level of recommendation "I" and level of evidence "II". Three recommendations reached strength of recommendation A based on the level of evidence I (2 for bracing and one for assessment); 39 recommendations reached strength of recommendation B (20 for bracing, 13 for PSSE, and 6 for assessment).The number of paper for each level of evidence for each treatment is shown in Table 8.

CONCLUSION

The 2016 SOSORT guidelines were developed based on the current evidence on CTIS. Over the last 5 years, high-quality evidence has started to emerge, particularly in the areas of efficacy of bracing (one large multicentre trial) and PSSE (three single-centre randomized controlled trials). Several grade A recommendations were presented. Despite the growing high-quality evidence, the heterogeneity of the study protocols limits generalizability of the recommendations. There is a need for standardization of research methods of conservative treatment effectiveness, as recognized by SOSORT and the Scoliosis Research Society (SRS) non-operative management Committee.

Body Image and Quality of Life and Brace Wear Adherence in Females With Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

BACKGROUND

Clinical evidence regarding the ability of braces to decrease the risk of curve progression to surgical threshold in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) continues to strengthen. Unfortunately, there is still a great deal of uncertainty regarding the impact of brace wear on psychosocial well-being or the impact of psychological well-being on brace wear adherence. The purpose of this study is to evaluate psychosocial well-being, in particular body image and quality of life (QOL), and brace wear adherence in female AIS patients undergoing brace treatment.

METHODS

The Bracing in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis Trial (BrAIST) was a multicenter, controlled trial using randomized and preference assignments into an observation or brace treatment group. BrAIST patients were skeletally immature adolescents diagnosed with AIS having moderate curve sizes (20 to 40 degrees). Patients in the bracing group were instructed to wear a thoracolumbosacral orthosis, at least 18 h/d. Scores on the Spinal Appearance Questionnaire and the PedsQL4.0 Generic Scales from 167 female BrAIST patients who were randomized to brace treatment (n=58) and patients who chose brace treatment (n=109) were analyzed.

RESULTS

At baseline and at 12 months, no differences were found between the least-adherent brace wear group (<6 h/d) and most-adherent brace wear group (≥12 h/d) patients in terms of major curve, body image, and QOL. In the most-adherent group, poorer body image scores were significantly correlated with poorer QOL scores at baseline, at 6 months, and at 12 months but not at 18 months. In general, body image scores and QOL scores were not significantly correlated in the least-adherent group. When comparing patients that had a ≥6 degree increase of their major curve between baseline and 12 months to patients that did not, there were no significant differences in body image or QOL scores.

CONCLUSIONS

For females adolescents with AIS, body image and QOL do not have a significant impact on brace wear adherence and are subsequently not significantly impacted by brace wear.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II-therapeutic (prospective comparative study).

Evaluation and management of lower back pain in young athletes

Lower back pain in young athletes is a common problem. The prevalence of back pain from different causes in adolescent age group is between 20% and 30%. However, the incidence of low back pain in young athletes varies widely in different sports. Overuse injuries are the most common cause of low back pain in young athletes. In case of overuse injuries, the cause and effect relationship between back pain and specific condition is often difficult to establish. In adolescent athletes, the most common underlying identified cause of low back pain is lumbar spondylolysis. During adolescent growth spurt, the severity of the pain generally correlates with adolescent growth spurt. Participation in sports starting at an early age and for a longer duration tends to increase the risk for back pain. Numerous conditions cause low back pain in athletes. These include acute trauma, chronic overuse or repetitive trauma, and referred pain. Our focus in here will be on selected conditions that cause recurrent or chronic low back pain.

Quality of life in adolescent patients with idiopathic scoliosis after brace treatment: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Whether brace-treated adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) have improved quality of life (QoL) is still unknown. Thus, we conducted a meta-analysis to compare the QoL of brace-treated AIS patients with untreated AIS patients. The pain, self-image/appearance, mental health, function/activity, satisfaction with management, total score without satisfaction, and total score of patients were used to measure the QoL after the intervention.

METHODS

Multiple electronic databases including PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase were searched for all years up to June 30, 2016. Articles in English that used the Scoliosis Research Society-22 (SRS-22) or a modified version of the SRS-22 questionnaire to evaluate the QoL differences between brace-treated AIS patients and untreated AIS patients were included in the meta-analysis. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used in the quality of literature evaluation. The pooled standardized mean difference (SMD) with its corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) for each parameter was computed. Egger test and Begg test were used to test for publication bias.

RESULTS

The SRS-22 or a modified SRS-22 questionnaire was used to evaluate the QoL after surgery. There was no significant difference in pain (SMD = 0.123, 95% CI: -0.101 to 0.347, P = .282), self-image/appearance (SMD = 0.108, 95% CI: -0.116 to 0.332, P = .334), mental health (SMD = 0.031, 95% CI: -0.130 to 0.201, P = .365), function/activity (SMD = 0.202, 95% CI: -0.022 to 0.425, P = .077), and total score without satisfaction (SMD = 0.123, 95% CI: -0.232 to 0.478, P = .497) between the untreated (observation) and brace-treated AIS patients, whereas a significant difference was observed in satisfaction with management (SMD = 0.393, 95% CI: 0.127-0.659, P = .004) and total score (SMD = 0.312, 95% CI: 0.054-0.571, P = .018) between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSION

Our meta-analysis indicated that brace-treated AIS patients had a higher QoL. However, further analysis could not be performed because of insufficient data, such that we were unable to make subgroup analysis of QoL for different types of AIS and the therapeutic methods chosen by brace-treated AIS patients.

Motivations for Compliance With Bracing in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE

To determine motivations for compliance with bracing among female patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS).

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Bracing prevents the need for surgery for the majority of girls with AIS with curves of 20° to 40° and 2 or more years of growth remaining. The main obstacle to success is compliance. The factors that either promote or impede compliance previously have not been fully clarified.

METHODS

Participants were females 10 to 16 years of age who were prescribed a brace to be worn 16 hours per day for AIS. Each completed a "Scoliosis Compliance Questionnaire" composed of the SRS-22r and five original sections focused on patients' attitudes to scoliosis, situations in which they found wearing the brace to be most and least difficult, factors that motivate brace wear, and interventions that could potentially improve compliance.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine subjects completed the study, mean age 13 years (range 11-15 years), at a mean of 15.4 months (range 4-39 months) of brace wear at the time of recruitment. More than 90% of patients stated that their main motivations for compliance were the desire to avoid surgery and to prevent curve progression. Compliance was most challenging during the summer and while at school. Many patients reported pain and skin irritation in the brace. The majority reported they would likely improve their hours of wear if they were able to communicate with a peer in the same situation. SRS-22r scores were similar to those of healthy adolescents.

CONCLUSIONS

The most important influences promoting brace wear are the patient's desire to avoid surgery and to prevent curve progression. Peer support potentially may improve compliance.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

An exploration of information exchange by adolescents and parents participating in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis online support groups

Background

Research indicates that healthcare providers frequently fail to adequately address patients’ health information needs. Therefore, it is not surprising that patients or parents of a sick child are seeking health information on the internet, in particular in online support groups (OSGs). In order to improve our understanding of the unmet health information needs of families dealing with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), this study assessed and compared the types of information that adolescents and parents are seeking in OSGs.

Methods

This study used two publicly accessible AIS-related OSGs on the National Scoliosis Foundation (NSF) website that targeted those who are receiving brace treatment and those under observation without treatment. Information exchanges were coded as providing or seeking information. Types of information being exchanged were categorized into several AIS-specific and brace-specific categories. Through a review of over 8,000 messages, 305 adolescents with AIS and 300 parents of a child with AIS were identified and categorized based on stage of illness/treatment. One message from each individual was randomly selected and coded for analysis.

Results

There were significantly more (p < 0.001) parents that had a recently diagnosed child compared to recently diagnosed adolescents participating in the AIS-related OSGs, whereas there were significantly more (p = 0.004) adolescents that experienced brace treatment compared to parents of a child that experienced brace treatment. The most frequent information exchanged by adolescents and parents was AIS-related concerns regarding causes, diagnosis, and progression of the condition. However, compared to adolescents, parents exchanged this AIS-related information significantly more (p < .001) in their posts. Finally, compared to parents, adolescents exchanged significantly more information about appearance-related concerns regarding both AIS-related deformity (p < 0.002) and wearing a brace (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Families dealing with AIS are participating in OSGs to exchange information, in particular information related to the condition and to treatment. This study found similarities and differences regarding how information was exchanged (providing or seeking) and regarding frequency and types of information exchanged. Knowledge of these similarities and differences may be useful for improving health communication in the healthcare setting, at home, and for development and improvement of AIS-related website support.

Psychometric validation of the EuroQoL 5-Dimension 5-Level (EQ-5D-5L) in Chinese patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis

Background

Scoliosis is a common spinal deformity that occurs often during adolescence. Previous studies suggested that adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients can have various aspects of their lives being affected, due to disease presentation and/or treatment received. It is important to define a reliable instrument based on which the affected patients’ health-related quality of life can be assessed. This study aims to assess the validity, reliability and sensitivity of the EuroQoL 5-dimension 5-level (EQ-5D-5L) in Chinese patients with AIS.

Methods

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients of Chinese descent were prospectively recruited to complete both the traditional Chinese versions of the EQ-5D-5L and the refined Scoliosis Research Society-22 (SRS-22r) questionnaires. Patients’ demographic profiles and corresponding clinical parameters including treatment modalities, spinal curve pattern and magnitude, and duration of bracing were recorded. Telephone interviews were then conducted at least two weeks later for the assessment of test-retest reliability. Statistical analysis was performed: construct validity of the EQ-5D-5L domains were assessed using Spearman’s correlation test against the SRS-22r; whereas intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to assess the test-retest reliability, and agreement over the test-retest period was expressed in percentages. Also, the sensitivity of the EQ-5D-5L in differentiating various clinical known groups was determined by effect size, independent t-test and analysis of variance.

Results

A total of 227 AIS patients were recruited. Scores of domains of the EQ-5D-5L correlated significantly (r: 0.57-0.74) with the scores of the SRS-22r domains that were intended to measure similar constructs, supporting construct validity. The EQ-5D-5L domain responses and utility scores showed good test-retest reliability (ICC: 0.777; agreement: 76.4 -98.1 %). Internal consistency was good (Cronbach’s α: 0.78) for the EQ-5D-5L utility score. The EQ-5D-5L utility score was sensitive in detecting differences between subjects who had different treatment modalities and bracing duration, but not for curve pattern and its magnitude.

Conclusions

The EQ-5D-5L is found to be a valid, reliable and sensitive measure to assess the health-related quality of life in Chinese AIS patients. This potentiates the possibility of utilizing the EQ-5D-5L to estimate AIS patients’ health-related quality of life, based on which the outcome of various treatment options can eventually be evaluated.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13013-016-0083-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.