Field testing of physical fitness in young patients with idiopathic scoliosis

Abstract

The aim of this study was the development of a physical fitness examination for girls with scoliosis using a field test of walking for 2 km. Comparison of the results of the field test of walking was made both in patients with different degrees of spine deformity as well as with reference values of a healthy population using the same test. Judgment of the validity of the test for use in longterm supervision was attempted. A total of 33 girls with idio‐pathic scoliosis were examined (before operation) and divided into group A (n = 8; age 15.1 ± 2.8; angle according to Cobb <60°) and group B (n = 25; age 14.7 ± 2.1; ≥60). Spirometry, acid base balance (ABB [BE, cH+]) in blood, oxygen consumption (VO2), and heart rate (HR) were examined during the walking test; in addition, the functional response, a performance time, and a fitness index were evaluated. The test was performed without subjective complaints (RPE x= 11.4) or any significant functional and ABB change. Results showed a better physiological reacti...