THE ROLE OF PHYSIOTHERAPY IN IDIOPATHIC SCOLIOSIS IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS

Abstract

Scoliosis is a lateral deviation of the spine and it can be classified into two groups: functional or non-structural scoliosis and morphological or structural scoliosis. Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common type of scoliosis in teenagers and children, prevailing in 80% of the cases. Deviations in the spine can be “C” or “S” shaped and they can occur either to the left or to the right. The pathology is more common in females and presents most often at the puberty. The diagnosis is made through imaging tests, anamnesis and specific tests performed by a physical therapist. Among the methods used to treat scoliosis are: kinesiotherapy, Global Postural Reeducation (GPR), isostretching, Pilates and the Klapp method. Physiotherapeutic treatment helps to prevent, improve pain and increase the patient's quality of life. It also improves muscle strengthening, mobility and range of motion in the spine.