Hip-related functional limitations in individuals with idiopathic scoliosis: a controlled trial

Abstract

Background: Since scoliosis is a three-dimensional deformity, it causes some movement limitations in the spine and related joints. However, functional limitations associated with scoliosis-related hip joint involvement are the subject of research. Aims: This study aims to investigate the physical characteristics and functional limitations associated with idiopathic scoliosis (IS), focusing on hip joint. Methods: Demographic characteristics, scoliosis-specific assessments and hip joint active range of motion (RoM), lumbar mobility (Modified Schober test), lumbopelvic stability (Single leg squat test-SLS), hip joint position sense, lower extremity balance (Y-balance test) and lower extremity functionality (Lower extremity functional scale-LEFS) were evaluated. Results: The study included 120 individuals, with 86 in the scoliosis group (mean age: 15.7 ± 3.4 years) and 34 in the control group (mean age: 16.1 ± 4.8 years). The scoliosis group exhibited limited RoM of the hip joint in flexion, extension, right abduction, adduction, internal rotation, and left external rotation compared to controls (p < 0.001). Lumbar mobility was decreased (p < 0.001). In the joint position sense test, the mean difference for right flexion was and for left flexion. Bilateral decreased SLS test performances (p < 0.001) and Y-balance test performance (p < 0.05) in individuals with IS. LEFS scores were statistically different but not clinically different between groups (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Individuals with IS show decreased hip mobility, lumbopelvic stability, hip joint position sense, and balance compared to healthy peers; however, these limitations do not have a clinical impact on daily living activities. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature 2024.