Comparative efficacy of different scoliosis-specific exercise protocols on cobb angle in adolescent…

Systematic reviewFrontiers in sports and active living· 2026

Comparative efficacy of different scoliosis-specific exercise protocols on cobb angle in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a network meta-analysis.

Penglong Wang, Yongping Xi, Xiaozan Wang

Pediatric OrthopedicsSystematic reviewTreatmentQ2IF 2.8

Schroth exercise plus sensory integration training most reduces Cobb angle in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis

Comparative efficacy of different scoliosis-specific exercise protocols on cobb angle in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a network meta-analysis.

Penglong Wang … Xiaozan Wang

Frontiers in sports and active living · 2026 · Q2 in Orthopedics

Purpose

To compare the efficacy of different scoliosis-specific exercise protocols on the Cobb angle in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (adolescent idiopathic scoliosis) using a network meta-analysis, and to rank the five key prescription parameters-exercise type, intervention period, session duration, frequency, and intensity-within a unified evidence framework, thereby moving beyond the traditional question of "whether exercise works" to address "which parameter combinations have the highest probability of producing optimal improvement."

Methods

A systematic search was performed in PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, CNKI, Wanfang Data, and VIP databases for randomized controlled trials from inception to December 2025.

n = 1,149 patients

Results

Cobb angle improved most with Schroth plus sensory integration training

MD -8.01 (95% CI -11.47 to -4.54)

CI excludes the null - significant

More results

The SUCRA rankings placed these parameters first in their respective networks.

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Conclusion · 1 of 3

Based on probability ranking, Schroth combined with sensory integration training, delivered at moderate intensity, three times per week, 30-60 min per session, for 12-18 weeks, is likely to be among the most effective protocols for improving the Cobb angle in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

Conclusion · 2 of 3

However, this finding is derived from a limited number of studies, and each protocol component is supported by sparse evidence within its respective network.

Conclusion · 3 of 3

These results should be interpreted with caution and must be individualized in clinical practice.

Comparative efficacy of different scoliosis-specific exercise protocols on cobb angle in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a network meta-analysis.

Comparative efficacy of different scoliosis-specific exercise protocols on cobb angle in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a network meta-analysis.

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