Yoga for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

Age: < 65

Sex: Any

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: University of Texas at Austin

No Placebo Group

Approved in 1 Jurisdiction

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) is defined as a three-dimensional lateral deformity of the spine. It is described with a cobb angle of greater than 10 degrees. There is no known etiology of AIS. Once the degrees of curvature become severe (greater than 45 degrees), surgical intervention (posterior spinal fusion - PSF) is often discussed. Most adolescent patients and their families opt for surgical correction to decrease future complications of severe scoliosis, such as decreased vital capacity of the lungs, potential future activity restrictions, cosmetic appearance, and self-esteem. While the patient and family are eager to undergo PSF, they do have concerns. The major concerns are pain control and their ability to return to activities. In current literature, there are many studies completed regarding pharmacologic pain control management with the use of IV patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) with opioids, narcotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxers, Tylenol, and gabapentin. However, there is not a well-established multimodal pain management plan for postoperative PSF patients. There is also no current literature discussing nonpharmacologic pain management methods, such as stretching, strengthening and yoga, for patients undergoing PSF. There are multiple studies discussing core stabilization used for helping AIS patients non-operatively. There is no literature discussing the use of nonpharmacologic pain management methods for improved pain control (including decreased use of pharmacologic agents) and quicker return to activities. The aim of this study is to determine if patients with AIS undergoing PSF require fewer pain medications and have an earlier return to activities if completing a yoga program six weeks prior to their surgery.

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for English-speaking adolescents with Idiopathic Scoliosis who are planning to undergo spinal fusion surgery. They must have internet and computer access. It's not suitable for those without these resources or those with non-idiopathic scoliosis.

Inclusion Criteria

I and my parents can speak English.

You have been diagnosed with Idiopathic Scoliosis.

Exclusion Criteria

No access to internet or computer

Non-English speaking parents and/or patient

My scoliosis is not caused by unknown reasons.

Participant Groups

The study tests if a yoga program, started six weeks before surgery, can reduce the need for pain medications and help patients return to activities sooner after their spinal fusion surgery.

2Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Active Control

Group I: Yoga groupExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

This group will be asked to do a 6 week series of yoga videos at home pre- and post-surgery.

Group II: Study groupActive Control1 Intervention

This group will be given standard pre- and post-surgery movement instructions.