Authors (including presenting author) :
Chan CY (1), Yeung KC (1), Leung KH (1), Hui WHC (1), Chan NC (1), Lee TC (1), Mak HL (1), See KH (1), Lau SM (1), Tsui YCA (1), Lau AYC (2), Hung LKA (2), Cheng CJ (2), Lam TP (2), Leung A (3), Tsang SMH (1,4)
Affiliation :
(1) Physiotherapy Department, Prince of Wales Hospital; (2) Orthopaedics and Traumatology Department, Prince of Wales Hospital; (3) International Schroth Three–Dimensional Scoliosis Therapy (4)Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Keyword 1: :
Physiotherapeutic Scoliosis-Specific Exercises (PSSE)
Keyword 5: :
3D Ultrasound
Keyword 6: :
Scoliosis Exercises
Introduction :
Physiotherapeutic Scoliosis-Specific Exercises (PSSE) are curve-specific exercises targeting 3-dimensional spinal correction and have demonstrated superiority over general exercise in reducing progression risk. Conventional surveillance of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) often relies on repeated radiographic monitoring, raising concerns about radiation exposure. This study introduces a hybrid framework integrating PSSE with telehealth delivery, complemented by AI-assisted ultrasound for radiation-free curvature assessment.
Objectives :
(1) To evaluate the efficacy of a hybrid PSSE model in improving physical and patient-reported outcomes in AIS.
(2) To validate the feasibility of AI-assisted ultrasound evaluation procedures for longitudinal curvature monitoring.
Methodology :
Forty-four adolescents (aged 10–14 years) with Cobb angles < 30° requiring bracing were enrolled in a five-week hybrid program conducted in group of 12. Interventions comprised four weekly onsite sessions emphasized on PSSE components—postural correction, curve-specific stretching, and core strengthening, and one telehealth session focused on scoliosis education, brace management, and exercise reinforcement. Pre- and post-program assessments included angle of trunk rotation (Adam’s test), 30-second sit-up count, and SRS-22r quality-of-life scores. A subgroup (n=5) underwent 3D AI-assisted spinal curvature evaluation using Scolioscan.
Result & Outcome :
Up till present, thirty-two participants completed the program. Significant pre-to-post improvements were observed in trunk rotation (7.52° ± 2.77 to 5.97° ± 2.23, p< 0.001) and 30-second sit up count (11.61 ± 3.35 to 12.8 ± 2.75, p=0.025). SRS-22r scores demonstrated improvements in pain, physical function, self-image, and treatment satisfaction, with overall program satisfaction averaging 8.5/10.In the Scolioscan subgroup, AI-derived 3D curvature angle significantly decreased from 16.78° ± 5.24 to 10.00° ± 5.97 (p=0.015). This hybrid PSSE-telehealth model, integrated with AI-assisted ultrasound, effectively improves clinical and patient-reported outcomes in AIS. The approach offers a feasible, individualized advancement in conservative scoliosis management, delivering targeted therapy and safe, radiation-free curve monitoring.
