Muscle fiber types in thoracic erector spinae muscles. Fiber types in idiopathic and other forms of scoliosis

Abstract

Histochemical studies of the thoracic part of the erector spinae muscles in scoliosis have shown a consistently higher proportion of Type 1 fibers on the convex side. The fiber distribution of the multifidus and semispinalis muscles was studied in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Compared with sex- and age-matched controls, a "normal" percentage of Type 1 fibers was found on the convex right side and significantly smaller percentage of Type 1 fibers on the concave side. Boys with AIS showed the same pattern as girls. In two patients with double major curves, the same pattern could be seen on the convexity of both curves. Patients with congenital scoliosis or scoliosis with early onset showed a different pattern with a "normal" percentage of Type 1 fibers on the concave side but a significantly greater percentage of Type 1 fibers on the convex side. In AIS, the deviation in the fiber distribution may constitute a primary factor in the pathogenesis of scoliosis. In congenital scoliosis the differences in fiber distribution between the convex and concave sides are considered secondary in the pathogenesis of the spinal curvature.