Effects of Schroth-Based Exercise on Kyphosis Angle, Muscle Strength, Balance, Pain, and Quality of Life in Hyperkyphosis With Chronic Neck Pain

The normal thoracic kyphosis angle of the spine is 20-40°, however, an angle of more than 40° is referred to as postural kyphosis, increased kyphosis or hyperkyphosis. Although postural kyphosis negatively affects individuals' general health status, physical performance, and quality of life, there is still no standardized protocol for correcting the thoracic kyphosis angle. Conservative treatment approaches such as postural training and exercises, manual therapy, postural corrective kinesiotaping, and orthotic use have been recommended for managing increased thoracic kyphosis. While numerous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of three-dimensional exercise programs in the treatment of scoliosis, research examining their impact on kyphosis remains considerably limited.Nevertheless, the potential of these exercises to promote neuromuscular reorganization suggests that they may be similarly effective in individuals with thoracic kyphosis. This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effects of a Schroth-based three-dimensional exercise program on kyphosis angle, trunk muscle strength, balance, pain, and quality of life in individuals with postural hyperkyphosis and chronic neck pain.

Inclusion Criteria: * Thoracic kyphosis angle \> 45 degrees, * Aged between 20 and 50 years, * Have neck pain for more than 3 months, * Neck pain visual analogue scale \> 3, * Not being treated for postural kyphosis in the last 6 months, * Has no systemic disease Exclusion Criteria: * History of trauma or surgery on spinal joints, * Participants with rheumatological and metabolic disorders, * Participants with congenital postural deformity and scoliosis