Causes and effects of delayed treatment of spine deformation in children and youth.
Background. Delays and negligence in the treatment of spinal deformations have both objective and subjective causes and often occur simultaneously. The aim of our study was to evaluate and analyze the pathomorphological features of spine deformation in young patients following the program suggested by Karski, especially flexion-rotations exercises. Material and methods. We analyzed 36 post-surgical patients who performed flexion-rotation exercises for varying lengths of time. In additional to information regarding the course and manner of treatment with flexion-rotation exercises obtained from anamnesis, clinical and X-ray examinations were carried out. Results. Upon analysis of the progress of treatment with flexion-rotation exercises, correction of deformityof presumed abduction contracture of the right hip, and forced positions, we observed exceptionally rapid progression of scoliosis. Conclusions. Flexion-rotation exercises do not reduce the extent of spinal deformities, and may even accelerate the process of scoliosis. Unexpectedly rapid progress of sciolosis was confirmed in 3 patients treated by this method using complete radiological examination. Prolonging flexion-rotation exercises in progressive scoliosis is harmful, since it contributes to postponing the proper surgical treatment and reduces its effectiveness by giving the changes a permanent character.
Krzysztof
K
Modrzewski
Andrzej
A
Skwarcz