Hypermobility, Foot Posture, and Scoliosis Severity

Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis is a three-dimensional spinal deformity that may also affect joint mobility, lower limb alignment, and overall posture. Joint hypermobility and foot posture abnormalities, including pronation or supination, are commonly observed in adolescents and may contribute to postural imbalance or altered biomechanical loading. However, the relationship between hypermobility, foot posture, and the severity of scoliosis remains unclear. The aim of this study is to examine whether generalized joint hypermobility and foot posture characteristics are associated with Cobb angle severity in adolescents diagnosed with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis. Hypermobility will be assessed using the Beighton Score, and foot posture will be evaluated with the Foot Posture Index. Understanding these associations may help clinicians better evaluate biomechanical factors related to scoliosis and guide future preventive or therapeutic approaches.

Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis * Age 10-19 years * Cobb angle ≥ 10° on standing Anterior-Posterior radiograph * Ability to participate in physical assessments * Voluntary consent to participate Exclusion Criteria: * Neuromuscular, syndromic, or congenital scoliosis * Previous spinal surgery * Lower extremity orthopedic conditions affecting foot posture * Neurological or rheumatological disorders affecting joint mobility * Communication or cognitive difficulties limiting participate