People living with idiopathic scoliosis

Abstract

Introduction: Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) affects the spinal curvature and may have an impact on the exercise tolerance of AIS patients. This study focused on comparing AIS patients’ performance during the incremental shuttle walk test (ISWT) to a control group. Methodology: Participants who attend the Orthopedic Outpatient Department (OOP) at Mater Dei Hospital (MDH) were recruited to perform two ISWTs, by walking around two cones 10 meters apart, with the pace set at increments by an audio signal played on a CD. Data analysis: Data was collected before and after the ISWT. The recorded variables were distance walked, predicted maximal oxygen consumption (peak VO2), heart rate, Borg scale, Rate of Perceived exertion (RPE), and oxygen saturation in the blood (SpO2). This data was added to an excel sheet and analyzed through SPSS. Results/conclusion: The results obtained showed a trend of decreased exercise tolerance in the Maltese AIS participants when compared to control groups as they demonstrated decreased distance walked and Peak VO2, compared to age and gender matched control groups.