Improving Home-Based Scoliosis Therapy: Findings From a Web-Based Survey

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics and Rehabilitation
• Digital Health
• Physiotherapy

Background:

• Conservative scoliosis therapy relies on supervised exercises and home-based training.
• Challenges in home therapy include complex exercises, low patient motivation, and insufficient therapist supervision.
• Digitalization offers potential solutions to improve adherence and outcomes in scoliosis management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the potential for optimizing home-based scoliosis therapy.
• Focus on enhancing patient motivation, utilizing assistive devices, and integrating digital tools.

Main Methods:

• A survey was conducted with scoliosis patients and physical therapists.
• Digital questionnaires collected data on demographics, therapy habits, motivation, and tool usage.
• Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis.

Main Results:

• Patients with scoliosis exercised less frequently than recommended.
• Increased motivation reported with social practice, supportive devices, and digital profiles.
• Therapists identified digital tools as beneficial for motivation, home therapy improvement, and progress monitoring.

Conclusions:

• Low training workload in home-based scoliosis therapy stems from lack of motivation, equipment, and self-control tools.
• Community training, supportive devices, and digital tools (apps) can address these challenges.
• Digital solutions can improve patient engagement and adherence in scoliosis rehabilitation.