Scheuermann's Disease Research

Scheuermann’s disease is a condition that results in the “narrowing of the anterior portion of the vertebral body” and causes the appearance if a wedge-shaped vertebrae (Cuppett). The disease is commonly seen affecting the thoracic and thoracolumbar spine of adolescents (Cuppett). Core-strengthening and trunk stabilization exercises are commonly recommended, yet highly controversial, methods of treatment for this disease. Many healthcare professionals believe that such exercises are futile since “Scheuermann’s disease is a self-limiting condition with any progression of the condition ceasing once the individual reaches skeletal maturity” (“Scheuermann’s Disease,” PhysioAdvisor). Others advocate for this treatment in order to provide their patients with relief from back pain and stiffness that commonly occurs with such a deformity in posture (Cuppett). In my opinion, I …show more content…
Although it is clear that such exercises alone will not successfully treat this condition due to its severities, use of these exercises with a brace can help in strengthening spine aligning muscles and relieving significant pain (“Scheuermann’s Disease,” Houston Methodist). Research conducted at the Federal University of São Paulo in São Paulo, Brazil, further supports my thoughts on this controversial treatment. The researched focused upon treting a 17 year old young man with Scheuermann’s disease with a Cobb angle or degree of curvature of the spine of approximately greater than 75°C and suffering from severe back pain and chest deformity using core-strengthening and trunk stabilizing as well as flexibility exercises. After approximately 6 weeks of treatment, the patient showed increased