Aim: To define the shape of the scoliotic spine by the CMS-system, to analyze the changes of the scoliotic spine as compared to that of non-scoliotic patients and to study the effect of loading on the deformed spine in AIS. The aim of the authors was to find a connection between the progression of scoliosis and the changes of movements of the deformed spine. They also analyse the effect of loading on the deformed spine and reach conclusions with regard to the progression of the spine deformity.
Patients and method: In a prospective study 25 scoliotic patients with type King 1-2-3 scoliosis were examined. Mean Cobb grades were dorsal 27 degrees (min. 15, max. 42), lumbal 25 degrees (min. 14, max. 43).
Results: The significant increase of extension seems to be in connection with increased lordosis in scoliosis. The significant increase of right rotation in AIS emphasizes that very often the first sign is the increased rotation on the thoracic spine, which could be larger than the right curve on the spine itself. However, the significant decrease of left and right bending is not in correlation with the severity of the spine deformities. Up to 30 degrees Cobb grades the pp angle is in significant correlation with the Cobb grade, but over 30 Cobb grade this correlation is weak.
Conclusion: During the clinical examination of the patient's spine only the "processus spinosus angle" may be observed, not the so-called Cobb angle, that is why we cannot leave out of consideration the X-ray analysis during the follow-up of the patients. The loading has a great influence on the degree of the gibbus and the severity of the thoracic curve.