gms | German Medical Science

Objective: Several studies have shown the decrease in the capacity to produce aerobic work in young subjects with mild to moderate AIS (when scoliosis exceeds 25º) [1], [2]. These abnormalities may lead to an increase in the energy required for walking or performing other physical activities [3]. Our aim is find out the frecuency and the relevance of the restricted work capacity since is uncertain and a matter of controversy.

Material/Methods: 6 weeks of aerobic training in AIS girls that suffer from mild scoliotic curvatures (n=6) and healthy controls (n=6) in different biochemical, anthropometric and cardio respiratory parameters. The groups performing a cycling training program were subjected to a training program of 3 sessions per week during a period of 6 weeks with an approximate duration of 1 hour per session (table 2). The training intensity was increased from 65% to 85% VO2max. All the girls trained every day with a Pulsometer 810R Cardio Polar.

Results: The maximal power output and the power output achieved at the anaerobic threshold, during the maximal exercise test, were significantly increased in both experimental groups. The training program caused significant changes in body composition (i.e. a decrease in body fat %) only in the scoliotic group. Regarding the cardio respiratory measurements, VO2max was increased by 17% in AIS group and by 10% in the healthy group.

Conclusion: We measured in our study the degree of the curve according to Cobb and we did not find any significant modification after 6 weeks of training in a cycle ergometer. Our results suggest that physical activity should be encouraged in scoliotic girls with mild curvatures.