Application of the Acral Coactivation Therapy Method in the Treatment of a Student Diagnosed with Idiopathic Adolescent Scoliosis

Abstract

Background and Aim of Study: The aetiology of idiopathic scoliosis is still an unsolved problem. It is a three-dimensional spinal deformity that comprehensively impacts the musculoskeletal and cardiorespiratory systems.  The aim of this pilot study was to find out how adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) can be treated by means of the Acral Coactivation Therapy (ACT) method. Material and Methods: The study was conducted on a 16-year-old student who had a body weight of 56 kg and a body height of 166 cm and was in his second year of high school. The student was diagnosed with AIS. We acquired data by means of standard medical-therapeutic methods and procedures applied in patients with AIS. Radiographic parametres, such as the Cobb angle as well as the Anterior and Posterior Trunk Symmetry Indexes (ATSI/POTSI), including the SCODIAC programme, were used to monitor the student’s progress. Results: In 2022, the student underwent a five-month exercise programme based on the ACT method, which was evaluated using clinical case study methods. The results showed a positive effect of the ACT method on the student’s spine curvature and body posture. There was an improvement of 21° in the thoracic curve and 20° in the curvature of his lumbar spine. In addition, the ATSI/POTSI improved from 36 to 7 (with a difference (r) of 29). Conclusions: The acquired qualitative data show a positive effect of the ACT method when it comes to correction of the curvature in a student diagnosed with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. The stated finding also points to the importance of regular physical activity in the student's movement regime.