Effectiveness of dynamic neuromuscular stabilization approach in lumbopelvic stability and gait parameters in individuals with idiopathic scoliosis: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Background: Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a common spinal deformity that leads to impaired lumbopelvic stability, gait dysfunction, and associated pain and psychological distress. This study evaluates the effectiveness of dynamic neuromuscular stabilization (DNS) in improving lumbopelvic stability and gait in AIS patients, comparing it to core stability exercises (CSE). This study evaluates the effectiveness of DNS in improving lumbopelvic stability and gait in AIS patients, comparing it to CSE.

Methods: This randomized controlled trial involved participants aged 18 to 25 years with mild to moderate idiopathic scoliosis, who were randomly assigned to either the control or experimental group. Both groups received 12 sessions of supervised exercises over 6 weeks, with the experimental group also incorporating DNS exercises alongside CSE. Lumbopelvic stability was assessed using the single leg squat, while core stability was evaluated with the stabilizer pressure Biofeedback in combination with the Sahrmann core stability test. Additionally, gait spatiotemporal parameters and pelvic dynamics were analyzed using the BTS-G-WALK system.

Results: Of 30 participants, 28 completed the study, comprising 12 males and 16 females, with 26 having mild right-sided thoracic scoliosis. Both groups showed improvement in the left single leg squat, with the control group reaching 93.3% "Good" performance and the experimental group achieving 69.2%. Gait analysis showed a significant reduction in duration for both groups, with the control group improving from 112.98 to 71.41 seconds (P = .005) and the experimental group improving from 112.33 to 67.68 seconds (P = .021).

Conclusion: This ongoing 12-week study shows that the combined DNS and CSE approach significantly improves lumbopelvic stability in individuals with idiopathic scoliosis. However, the impact on gait parameters was minimal, possibly due to the short duration of the intervention and the similar walking strategies of those with single-curve scoliosis and healthy individuals. These findings highlight the potential of integrating DNS into scoliosis rehabilitation and underscore the need for further research to optimize treatment duration and assess long-term functional outcomes.