Research Summaries

Degenerative lumbar scoliosis (DLS) and spinal stenosis are prevalent conditions among older adults. DLS is defined as a spinal curvature greater than 10 degrees in individuals who did not have scoliosis earlier in life. This condition often develops due to the degeneration of spinal structures, including intervertebral discs, facet joints, and ligaments, which leads to spinal deformities and nerve compression. Spinal stenosis further complicates the situation by narrowing the spinal canal, resulting in nerve impingement and symptoms such as lower back pain, leg pain, and difficulty walking.  The prevalence of DLS increases with age and is more common in women. Key risk factors include asymmetry in disc height, the formation of bony growths (osteophytes), and imbalance in spinal alignment. These factors contribute to pain, reduced mobility, and, in some cases, progressive deformity.  Treatment options for DLS depend on the severity of the condition. Non-surgical approaches, such as pain-relief medications, physical therapy, and steroid injections, are often the first line of treatment. These methods can provide temporary relief but may not address the underlying spinal instability. In cases of severe pain or neurological symptoms, surgical intervention may be required. Surgical procedures typically involve decompression to relieve nerve pressure and spinal fusion to stabilize the spine. While surgery can significantly improve quality of life, it carries risks, particularly for older patients with additional health issues.  Overall, the study emphasizes the importance of individualized treatment plans. The goal is to manage symptoms effectively while minimizing risks and preserving function, enabling patients to maintain a better quality of life.

This study examines the prevalence and treatment of idiopathic scoliosis using data from South Korea's National Health Insurance between 2011 and 2015. Idiopathic scoliosis, the most common form of spinal deformity, is characterized by an unknown cause and typically affects children and adolescents. The study aimed to determine the incidence rates across various demographics, evaluate patterns of medical care, and assess surgical intervention rates.  A total of 267,283 patients were diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis during the study period. The highest incidence was observed in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS), particularly in females aged 10 to 14 years. Females were found to have an incidence rate 1.44 times higher than males. Urban populations showed a higher prevalence compared to rural areas, which the authors attribute to differences in access to healthcare and lifestyle factors. Despite the significant number of diagnoses, only 0.7% of patients underwent surgery within five years of diagnosis, with surgeries being most common in females aged 10 to 14. Most surgical procedures were conducted in tertiary hospitals, highlighting the complexity of the interventions required.  The study concludes that understanding the demographic and regional differences in idiopathic scoliosis can assist in improving early detection programs and optimizing treatment approaches. The findings underscore the importance of access to specialized care and tailored management strategies for high-risk groups.

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a structural spinal deformity that develops during puberty, affecting 1–4% of adolescents, with females being disproportionately affected. This review explores the relationship between AIS and mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and personality dysfunctions, by analyzing 30 studies published up to 2021.  The findings reveal that AIS increases the likelihood of mental health disorders. Patients undergoing brace treatment often report heightened anxiety, primarily due to discomfort and its impact on body image. Depression is more pronounced in female patients and those with severe spinal curvature, while eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, are more prevalent among AIS patients compared to the general population. Neurotic personality traits and introverted tendencies are also commonly observed, particularly in patients undergoing bracing therapy.  The review underscores the importance of incorporating psychological assessments and support into AIS management. Addressing mental health issues can improve patient outcomes and quality of life. Further longitudinal research and multidisciplinary interventions are recommended to better understand and mitigate the psychosocial impact of AI

This review evaluates the effectiveness of Schroth and core stabilization exercises for treating idiopathic scoliosis, a spinal condition common in children and adolescents. The study analyzed 13 trials with 412 participants aged 10–23 years, focusing on changes in the Cobb angle (spinal curvature), angle of trunk rotation (ATR), and quality of life (QoL).  Both methods showed positive outcomes, but Schroth exercises were more effective. These exercises, involving breathing techniques and posture correction, significantly reduced the Cobb angle and improved QoL. Core stabilization exercises, which focus on strengthening trunk muscles, also improved outcomes but had smaller effect sizes. Results for ATR showed minimal improvement overall.  The study highlights Schroth exercises as the better approach for managing idiopathic scoliosis. Both methods are valuable for reducing symptoms and potentially avoiding surgery. Further research is recommended to assess long-term benefits and explore combined approaches for enhanced outcomes.

The study investigates how mild adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) affects self-perceived body image and overall quality of life (QoL). AIS, characterized by a spinal curvature exceeding 10°, often influences body image and mental well-being. The study involved 15 adolescents aged 12 to 22 with mild scoliosis (curves between 10° and 25°). Assessments were conducted using the Scoliosis Research Society-22 (SRS-22) questionnaire and the Trunk Appearance Perception Scale (TAPS).  Results showed that even mild scoliosis negatively impacts self-image, as participants scored lower in the self-image domain of the SRS-22 compared to other domains such as pain and mental health. The study found body image to be a key factor influencing adolescents’ QoL, even when physical symptoms were minimal.  These findings underline the importance of addressing body image concerns in AIS treatment, even in cases with mild curvature. Early psychological support and interventions can help mitigate negative impacts on mental health and improve overall well-being. Expanding future research to include larger groups will provide a more comprehensive understanding of these issues.

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is the most common spinal deformity, affecting 1–4% of adolescents, with a higher prevalence in females. Its exact cause is unknown, but several factors, including genetics, biomechanics, and hormonal imbalances, contribute to its development. This review focuses on the role of endocrine hormones, such as estrogen, melatonin, leptin, and ghrelin, in the pathogenesis of AIS.  Research shows that abnormal hormone levels, especially low estrogen, may delay bone development and increase the risk of spinal deformities. Melatonin deficiency is linked to reduced bone density and improper vertebral growth. Similarly, leptin and ghrelin influence bone metabolism and muscle development, with imbalances potentially contributing to the structural changes observed in AIS patients.  The study emphasizes that AIS results from complex interactions between multiple hormones and their effects on bone, muscle, and cartilage development. Future research should explore these interactions holistically to improve understanding and treatment of AIS.