Balance Control in Adolescents with Idiopathic Scoliosis
Author Information
Author(s): Simoneau Martin, Mercier Pierre, Blouin Jean, Allard Paul, Teasdale Normand
Primary Institution: Université Laval, Québec, Canada
Hypothesis
Idiopathic scoliosis interferes with the mechanisms responsible for sensory-reweighting during balance control.
Conclusion
Adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis have difficulty in reweighting sensory inputs following a brief period of sensory deprivation.
Supporting Evidence
- Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients showed greater center of pressure velocity variability than control participants.
- Reintegration of ankle proprioception led to increased center of pressure velocity variability in scoliosis patients.
- Scoliosis patients had difficulty scaling their balance control commands appropriately during sensory reintegration.
Takeaway
Kids with scoliosis have trouble balancing when their senses are messed with, like when they can't see or feel their feet properly.
Methodology
The study involved 8 scoliosis patients and 9 healthy adolescents, using an AMTI force platform to measure balance control during sensory perturbations.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in participant selection and the lack of MRI for diagnosis.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and did not include a diverse demographic.
Participant Demographics
8 scoliosis patients (7 female, 1 male; mean age 16.4 years) and 9 healthy adolescents (average age 16.5 years).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website