| A Comparative Study on the Effects of Stretching and Strengthening Exercises on Postural Correction in Students with Kyphotic Deformity |
| Paper ID : 1164-SPORTCONGRESS |
| Authors |
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zahra javadi *1, roghayh ghasemi2 1ministry of education 2tehran |
| Abstract |
| Abstract Background and Objective: Postural kyphosis is prevalent among adolescents, and exercise programs (stretching, strengthening, or combined) have been proposed to reduce kyphosis angle and enhance postural function. This concise analytical review aims to compare the effectiveness of stretching and strengthening exercises (and combined programs) in correcting kyphosis among students. Methods: A review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs), clinical trials, and systematic reviews published domestically and internationally over the past decade was conducted. Key criteria included changes in thoracic kyphosis angle, back muscle strength/endurance, and functional outcomes. Results: Evidence suggests that structured exercise programs are effective in improving kyphosis angle. A small meta-analysis indicated a significant reduction in mean kyphosis angle following exercise interventions (MD ≈ −6.97°). RCTs involving adolescents reported that comprehensive programs incorporating strengthening, stretching, and postural perception training resulted in greater angle reduction compared to chest-only exercise programs or control groups. Systematic reviews and existing evidence further indicate that strengthening exercises—particularly those targeting back extensor and interscapular muscles—play a more prominent role in sustaining postural correction, although structured stretching of anterior tissues is beneficial in combination. Discussion and Conclusion: The collective evidence supports that: (1) regular exercise programs can reduce kyphosis angle in adolescents; (2) combined programs (strengthening + stretching + postural training/three-dimensional exercises like Schroth) are generally more effective than single-modality interventions; and (3) the quality of evidence varies, often accompanied by risks of bias and short follow-up periods. Thus, structured school-based programs and long-term research follow-up are recommended. Recommendations for Conference/Practical Implications: For clinical interventions and school-based prevention programs, a combination of strengthening exercises (focusing on back extensors and interscapular muscles), structured stretching of anterior muscle groups, and daily postural awareness training is recommended. Future studies should involve larger sample sizes, long-term follow-up, and standardized kyphosis angle measurement protocols. |
| Keywords |
| Keywords: Postural kyphosis, adolescents, strengthening exercises, stretching exercises, corrective programs, systematic review. |
| Status: Abstract Accepted (Poster Presentation) |
