Effects of Lumbar Traction Combined With 3D Exercise Therapy on Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) is a three-dimensional spinal deformity that appears during adolescence without an identifiable underlying cause.

A variety of low-risk physical therapy modalities, such as TENS, acupuncture, kinesio taping, spinal manipulation, and mobilization, have been explored in the management of scoliosis. Among these approaches, lumbar mechanical spinal traction is a commonly used non-invasive and painless intervention in physical medicine and rehabilitation settings. However, existing research on traction in AIS remains limited and generally of low methodological quality. Preliminary and observational studies have reported mixed outcomes, and the clinical effectiveness of traction appears to depend on factors such as curve characteristics, treatment dose, and integration with active rehabilitation. To date, high-quality randomized controlled evidence evaluating lumbar mechanical spinal traction as an adjunct to scoliosis-specific exercises in AIS is lacking.

This study aims to investigate the combined effects of lumbar mechanical spinal traction and scoliosis-specific exercises in adolescents diagnosed with AIS. A prospective randomized controlled design will be used to assess changes in Cobb angle, posture, pain, and functional status. The findings may help clarify whether adding mechanical traction provides additional benefit beyond exercise alone in the conservative treatment of AIS.