Scoliosis treatment using manipulative and rehabilitative therapy

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BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders 2004, 5:32 Published 14 September 2004

http://www.biomedcentral.com/1471-2474/5/32/abstract

Scoliosis treatment using a combination of manipulative and

rehabilitative therapy: a retrospective case series

Mark W Morningstar, Dennis Woggon and Lawrence

Abstract

Background

The combination of spinal manipulation and various physiotherapeutic

procedures used to correct the curvatures associated with scoliosis have

been largely unsuccessful. Typically, the goals of these procedures are

often to relax, strengthen, or stretch musculotendinous and/or

ligamentous structures. In this study, we investigate the possible

benefits of combining spinal manipulation, positional traction, and

neuromuscular reeducation in the treatment of idiopathic scoliosis.

Methods

A total of 22 patient files were selected to participate in the

protocol. Of these, 19 met the study criterion required for analysis of

treatment benefits. Anteroposterior radiographs were taken of each

subject prior to treatment intervention and 4-6 weeks following the

intervention. A Cobb angle was drawn and analyzed on each radiograph, so

pre and post comparisons could be made.

Results

After 4-6 weeks of treatment, the treatment group averaged a 17-degree

reduction in their Cobb angle measurements. None of the patients' Cobb

angles increased. A total of 3 subjects were dismissed from the study

for noncompliance relating to home care instructions, leaving 19

subjects to be evaluated post-intervention.

Conclusions

The combined use of spinal manipulation and postural therapy appeared to

significantly reduce the severity of the Cobb angle in all 19 subjects.

These results warrant further testing of this protocol.