Clinical Research Directory
Browse clinical research sites, groups, and studies.
Effects of Lumbar Traction Combined With 3D Exercise Therapy on Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Sponsor: Şahide Eda ARTUÇ
Summary
Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) is a three-dimensional spinal deformity that appears during adolescence without an identifiable underlying cause. A variety of low-risk physical therapy modalities, such as TENS, acupuncture, kinesio taping, spinal manipulation, and mobilization, have been explored in the management of scoliosis. Among these approaches, lumbar mechanical spinal traction is a commonly used non-invasive and painless intervention in physical medicine and rehabilitation settings. However, existing research on traction in AIS remains limited and generally of low methodological quality. Preliminary and observational studies have reported mixed outcomes, and the clinical effectiveness of traction appears to depend on factors such as curve characteristics, treatment dose, and integration with active rehabilitation. To date, high-quality randomized controlled evidence evaluating lumbar mechanical spinal traction as an adjunct to scoliosis-specific exercises in AIS is lacking. This study aims to investigate the combined effects of lumbar mechanical spinal traction and scoliosis-specific exercises in adolescents diagnosed with AIS. A prospective randomized controlled design will be used to assess changes in Cobb angle, posture, pain, and functional status. The findings may help clarify whether adding mechanical traction provides additional benefit beyond exercise alone in the conservative treatment of AIS.
Official title: Impact of Combined Lumbar Spinal Traction and Three-Dimensional Exercise Therapy on Spinal Curve Parameters and Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
12 Years - 18 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
40
Start Date
2026-03-05
Completion Date
2026-12-05
Last Updated
2026-03-04
Healthy Volunteers
No
Interventions
Lumbar Mechanical Traction
Mechanical traction will be applied intermittently with 15-second pull / 15-second relaxation periods while the patient lies in the supine position with the hips and knees flexed at 90 degrees. The treatment will begin with a traction force of 5-10 kg for 5 minutes, and then continue for an additional 15 minutes by increasing the force until the patient reports reaching their traction tolerance or up to a maximum of 30-50% of body weight.
Lumbar Mechanical Sham Traction
Sham traction will be applied intermittently for 20 minutes with 15-second pull / 15-second relaxation periods, using a traction force of 5 kg, while the patient lies in the supine position with the hips and knees flexed at 90 degrees.
Locations (1)
Gaziler Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Training and Research Hospital
Ankara, Çankaya, Turkey (Türkiye)