BIOMECHANICAL ANALYSIS AND PHYSIOTHERAPEUTIC OUTCOME OF SELECTED EXERCISES USING THE SCHROTH AND PILATES METHODS IN ADOLESCENT IDIOPATHIC SCOLIOSIS

The review of the monographic book "Biomechanical study and physiotherapeutic evaluation of specific exercises using Schroth and Pilates techniques in adolescents with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis" by Kushtrim Zhjeqi, Dr. Cand., is a comprehensive investigation into the impact of the combination of Schroth and Pilates exercises on the well-being of adolescents with mild idiopathic scoliosis. The study evaluates the impact of these exercises on Cobb angle, trunk rotation angle (ATR), chest expansion, flexibility (trunk flexion), and quality of life (QoL) in this particular group of individuals. The monographic book written by Prof. Ass. Dr. Shkurte Rreca-Mala provides a comprehensive analysis of the biomechanical elements of certain exercises and their impact on physiotherapeutic outcomes for young people with idiopathic scoliosis. The language and presentation of the book are clear and concise, making complex topics easy to understand. The author integrates theoretical knowledge with practical knowledge, clarifying the basic mechanics and physiological reactions associated with Schroth and Pilates exercises. The study included 69 adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis aged 10–17 who underwent a therapy programme including Schroth and Pilates exercises for 6 months. Participants engaged in daily 60-minute sessions, two cycles of 2-week treatment regimens, followed by a 10-week home treatment program. The study assessed treatment efficacy using various measures, including Cobb angle, ATR, chest expansion, trunk flexion, and quality of life assessment. The results showed significant improvements in all parameters evaluated for both groups of patients, including those who wore corsets and those who did not. Reductions in Cobb angle and trunk rotation angle were significant for both groups, and both groups showed gains in chest extension and trunk flexion. The study findings are consistent with previous research demonstrating the beneficial effect of Schroth procedures on scoliosis wellness. However, he also acknowledges the study's limitations, such as the lack of a control group and the need for extended follow-up periods. The study recommends conducting controlled experiments with extended research durations, taking into account skeletal maturity, to obtain more accurate data regarding the effectiveness of combined Schroth and Pilates exercises. Despite these limitations, the study's findings have made significant advances in the treatment of adolescent scoliosis and yielded favourable outcomes.