Schroth Exercise Vs. Schroth Combined Exercise for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: A Systematic Review

Abstract

The spinal deformity known as adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is common in teenagers and can have both physical and psychological effects. Schroth exercise, a non-invasive treatment, is widely used for AIS. However, studies comparing the efficacy of Schroth exercise alone and in combination with other methods are limited. They included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in this systematic review were published between January 2020 and February 2025. focusing on AIS patients aged 10 - 18. Studies were retrieved from CNKI, PubMed, and Google Scholar. Cobb angle change was the main result, while quality of life (QoL) and trunk rotation angle were the secondary results. The PEDro scale was used to evaluate the methodological quality. There were 10 RCTs in all, with 540 participants. With a mean PEDro score of 5.3, the studies' quality varied from low to high. Schroth exercise alone showed significant improvement in Cobb angle in some studies, but combined training (e.g., with Pilates or asymmetric spinal stabilization exercises) demonstrated more significant effects on Cobb angle, trunk rotation angle, and QoL. Schroth combined training is more effective in improving AIS-related outcomes compared to Schroth exercise alone. Future studies should focus on increasing sample size, standardizing protocols, and exploring the mechanisms of combined training to further validate its efficacy and optimize treatment plans.