Purpose: The purpose of this study suggests the exercise programs for improving the function and structure by applying the Schroth exercise method and sling exercise method to the scoliosis patient.
Methods: The subjects were 16 patients who were diagnosed with scoliosis. They were randomly assigned either to a Schroth exercise group (n=8) that received Schroth exercise program or to a sling exercise group (n=8) that received sling exercise program. Flexibility, static balance, dynamic balance, and spinal angles were measured by using the modified sit and reach test, one leg standing with closed eyes, functional reach test, and Cobb’s angle, respectively. The chest expansion were calculated using differences of chest circumference between maximum inspiration and maximum expiration measured under armpits, at the junction between the sternum and xiphoid process, and at the waist.
Results: Schroth group before and after the intervention there was a difference in the static balance, spine angle, chest expansion (p<.05). sling group before and after the intervention there was a difference in the flexibility, static balance, spine angle, chest expansion (p<.05).
There were significantly differences between the both groups for chest expansion thoracic level inspiratory variables at post-exercise.
Conclusion: These results revealed that two exercise program improved flexibility, static standing balance, spine angle, chest expansion level and ability used as scoliosis management and intervention. Therefore, it is expected to be used as a method for the treatment and prevention in the process of rehabilitation of patients with scoliosis.