Breathing better: could diaphragm stretching boost scoliosis therapy?
NCT ID NCT07683533
First seen Jul 06, 2026 · Last updated Jul 07, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study investigates whether adding diaphragm manual techniques to standard three-dimensional scoliosis exercises (Schroth method) improves outcomes for adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis. Twenty-four participants aged 10–18 with mild curves (Cobb angle under 30°) will be split into two groups: one receiving Schroth exercises alone, the other receiving Schroth plus diaphragm stretching. Researchers will measure changes in muscle activity, spinal curvature, trunk rotation, breathing function, and quality of life over 12 weeks. The goal is to see if improving diaphragm function can enhance scoliosis rehabilitation.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only, not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Diaphragmatic manual techniques combined with Schroth three-dimensional scoliosis exercises
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could lead to a more effective rehabilitation approach for adolescent scoliosis, improving breathing, posture, and quality of life without surgery.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small early-stage trial with only 24 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The added benefit of diaphragm techniques over standard exercises alone is uncertain.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Phase
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Not a phased trial
Phase numbers describe drug development. The registry uses this when they do not apply, as it does for trials of devices, procedures or behaviour changes, and for observational studies.
- Participants
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About 24 people
The number the study aims to enrol. It can still change while the study runs.
- Expected to start
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Aug 2026
An estimate. Start dates often move.
- Expected to finish
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Apr 2027
An estimate. End dates often move.
- Lead sponsor
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Other sponsor
The registry's catch-all category, for sponsors it does not file as a company, a government agency, or a research network.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
- Ages
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10 to 18 years
- Sex
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Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
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Not accepted
This study is not open to healthy volunteers. The entry requirements below say who it is open to.
Show the full entry requirements Hide the full entry requirements
Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion Criteria: * Individuals aged 10-18 years, in adolescence. * Scoliosis curvature in the thoracic region. * Individuals and their parents (those who have signed the informed consent form) who agree to participate in regular follow-up and exercise programs throughout the study period. * Diagnosis of AIS by a physician. * Patients with idiopathic scoliosis diagnosed radiologically and with a Cobb angle less than 30°. * The child and family agree to participate in and adhere to the 12-week treatment process. * Ability to understand and speak Turkish. * Not being in another treatment program. Individuals without any systemic disease that prevents participation in the physical exercise program. Exclusion Criteria: * Individuals who report that they cannot participate regularly during the exercise period or who will not adhere to the study schedule. * Individuals who have not previously undergone surgery for scoliosis * Those with accompanying neuromuscular or rheumatic diseases * Those receiving other scoliosis-related treatment during the study * Malignancy * Those using braces * Individuals with cognitive impairment that prevents them from understanding and performing the exercises mentally or physically. * Those with respiratory and cardiovascular system diseases requiring regular medication
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
How to take part
Only the study team decides who joins. These are the ways to reach them.
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The places running it
1 site. The list below names each one and where it is.
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The official record
ClinicalTrials.gov lists the study team's own contact details, including names and phone numbers. We don't republish those.
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A doctor treating you
A doctor who knows your case can contact a study site on your behalf, and can tell you whether this study is worth pursuing at all.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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Akdeniz University
Antalya, Konyaaltı, 07070, Turkey (Türkiye)
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