Face-to-face vs. telerehabilitation for thoracic hyperkyphosis in children- A randomized controlled pilot study

PurposeThis pilot study aimed to compare the effects of face-to-face and telerehabilitation approaches on thoracic hyperkyphosis, back extensor muscle strength, and discomfort in children.MethodsA randomized clinical trial was conducted in Türkiye with twenty children (aged 9-12 years) diagnosed with thoracic hyperkyphosis (thoracic kyphosis angle >40°). Participants were randomly allocated to a face-to-face rehabilitation group (n = 10) or a telerehabilitation group (n = 10) using the Fiziu Digital Exercise Platform. Both groups performed the same supervised exercise program three times per week for six weeks. Thoracic kyphosis angle (TKA), manual muscle testing (MMT) of the back extensors, and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores for discomfort were assessed pre- and post-intervention.ResultsIn the face-to-face group, significant improvements were observed in all outcome measures. TKA decreased by 2.00° (p < .001), MMT increased by 0.50 points (p = .037), and VAS decreased by 1.90 points (p < .001). In the telerehabilitation group, TKA also showed a significant reduction of 1.55° (p = .002), and VAS decreased significantly by 1.30 points (p = .009). Although MMT increased by 0.40 points in the telerehabilitation group, this change did not reach statistical significance (p = .072). No significant between-group differences were observed for any outcome at post-intervention (TKA p = .34; MMT p = .693; VAS p = .27).ConclusionsBoth face-to-face and telerehabilitation approaches improved posture, muscle strength, and discomfort in children with thoracic hyperkyphosis. Telerehabilitation using the Fiziu platform may be a practical and accessible alternative in pediatric rehabilitation.