Investigation of Shoulder Position, Upper Extremity Proprioception, and Function in Adolescents With Idiopathic Scoliosis Using Braces

This study aims to investigate the effects of brace use on shoulder position, upper extremity proprioception, and upper extremity function in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis. Participants will be assessed under both in-brace and out-brace conditions. The control group's upper extremity proprioception and upper extremity function will be assessed under out-brace condition. Shoulder position will be evaluated using a photographic method, while upper extremity proprioception (angular deviation) will be measured with the Laser Pointer-Assisted Angle Reproduction Test. Upper extremity function will be assessed through muscle strength tests, the Closed Kinetic Chain Upper Extremity Stability Test, the Medicine Ball Throw Test, the Finger-to-Nose Test, the Nellson Hand Reaction Test, and the Minnesota Manual Dexterity Test. Adolescents diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis who have been prescribed brace treatment and have no history of spinal surgery or neurological/musculoskeletal conditions affecting upper extremity function will be included. Individuals with congenital or neuromuscular scoliosis, previous spinal surgery, neurological disorders affecting proprioception, or those unable to comply with study assessments will be excluded. This study aims to provide insights into the impact of bracing on proprioception and upper extremity function, contributing to the development of rehabilitation strategies for scoliosis management.