Abstract

Background. Scoliosis is a three-plane defect. The correction of scoliosis should therefore be a global process involving all three planes, which, however, is not always the case with postural reeducation. More emphasis, especially in corrective exercises in schools, is placed on the correction of lateral curvatures in the frontal plane, elongation exercises, and exercises to strengthen the postural muscles, while the rotary component is usually ignored. The aim of this paper was to analyse derotation exercises and answer the question whether and how the correction of spinal alignment during derotation exercises results in immediate changes in body posture. Material and methods. 73 persons in two age groups (schoolchildren and adults) were examined. All participants had been diagnosed with scoliosis of the thoracic spine. Posture was assessed photogrammetrically in various free positions, following active spinal correction and during a derotation exercise using the bancho device.Results. There were considerable differences regarding active spinal correction between the children and adults. There was also a statistically significant correlation between age and the ability to actively correct spinal alignment during a derotation exercise. Conclusions. 1. The possibilities of active scoliosis correction are increased if the rotational component is also involved. 2. Derotation exercises are a significant element of corrective gymnastics, particularly in school-age patients.

Key words:

scoliosis, arrangement of body, derotation exercises