Effect of the Pilates method on idiopathic scoliosis: a case study

AIMS: To investigate the short-term effects of the Pilates method on postural alterations, flexibility and strength of the flexor and extensor muscles of the trunk in a patient with idiopathic scoliosis. CASE DESCRIPTION: This is a prospective study in which the following alterations in an 11-year-old girl with idiopathic scoliosis were evaluated before and after a treatment protocol based on the Pilates method: 1) postural alterations in anterior, posterior and profile view, measured using the Postural Assessment Software (Software de Avaliação Postural, SAPO, in Portuguese); 2) posterior chain flexibility, assessed using the sit-and-reachand the finger-floor distance tests; and 3) strength of the flexor and extensor muscles of the trunk, assessed using manual muscle strength testing. The treatment protocol included Pilates mat and equipment exercises, and consisted of 10 sessions given three times a week for a month. After the intervention, the patient showed improvement in postural alignment of the head, shoulders, scapulae, Thales' angle, trunk, abdomen and pelvis. We identified improvements in flexibility and strength of the flexor and extensor muscles of the trunk, when comparing values before and after the physical therapy sessions. CONCLUSIONS: This case study suggests positive, short-term effects of Pilates exercise on an adolescent with a clinical diagnosis of idiopathic scoliosis