A Comparison of the Effects of Exercise Methods for Adolescent Hyperkyphosis on the Sensorimotor System

This study will compare two home exercise programs for adolescents aged 10-17 years with postural hyperkyphosis: kyphosis-specific Schroth exercises and traditional stretching and strengthening exercises. It will examine whether one program is more effective at improving the ability to sense and reproduce a corrected upper-back posture. The researchers expect the Schroth program to lead to greater improvement.

Inclusion Criteria: * Aged 10 through 17 years. * Thoracic kyphosis Cobb angle greater than 40° and less than 70°, measured from T4 to T12 on a lateral radiograph. * Flexible thoracic kyphosis that decreases with active correction on clinical examination. * Able to understand the exercise instructions and perform the home program. * Written informed consent from a parent or legal guardian and written assent from the adolescent. Exclusion Criteria: * Kyphosis other than postural kyphosis, including Scheuermann disease (at least 5° of wedging in three or more consecutive vertebrae), congenital kyphosis, or other structural or rigid kyphosis. * Structural scoliosis with a Cobb angle greater than 10°. * Previous spinal surgery or major trauma affecting the spine. * Diagnosed neurological condition or neurological symptoms that may affect postural control. * Diagnosed vestibular pathology, history of vestibular problems, or current vertigo, dizziness, or balance complaints. * Visual impairment that cannot be corrected with glasses or contact lenses. * Acute musculoskeletal injury or pain that would prevent assessment or exercise. * Participation in physiotherapy or an exercise program for kyphosis within the previous 3 months. * Previous Schroth exercise training. * Current brace treatment. * Cognitive impairment that would prevent adherence to the exercise program.