Influence of side-shift therapy associated or not with a shoe lift on idiopathic scoliosis

Abstract

Introduction: The benefits of side-shift therapy associated with a shoe lift in scoliosis can act by reorganizing the asymmetries found in these individuals. The aim of this study was to analyze the influence of sideshift therapy with or without a high or low shoe lift in patients with idiopathic scoliosis. Materials and Methods: 10 individuals of both genders, aged 13-24 years, were selected, with scoliosis "S" and right thoracic and left lumbar greater than 10º. Initially the order of the task was static and then dynamic, after which there was a draw for the conditions with the shoe lift. The values of postural angles during the five lateral tilt movements were obtained and also the minimum and maximum values of each movement. The average value of postural angle in the static position, without a shoe lift, was used as a reference. Results: The movement associated with the shoe lift demonstrated less significant results compared with the effect of the static shoe lift and the side-shift movements performed in isolation, no significant results in any angle were found. Discussion: Both movements, to the side of the convexity or to the opposite side, seemed to decrease the effect of the shoe lift. The side-shift movement performed in isolation failed to influence the postural angles in general, demonstrating that acute intervention may not be efficient. Conclusion: The influence of side-shift therapy associated with a high or low shoe lift on both sides was effective, but the shoe lift in the static position produced the most significant changes and therefore is considered a better intervention in order to prevent the progression of double curve in patients with idiopathic scoliosis.