Is spinal neuromuscular function asymmetrical in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis compared to those without scoliosis?: A narrative review of surface EMG studies

Ng, Phoebe, Claus, A., , , & Tucker, Kylie (2022) Is spinal neuromuscular function asymmetrical in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis compared to those without scoliosis?: A narrative review of surface EMG studies. Journal of Electromyography and Kinesiology, 63, Article number: 102640.

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Description

Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) is a three-dimensional spinal deformity occurring between ages of 10-18 years. We aimed to present a reasoned synthesis of the published evidence for and against asymmetrical paraspinal muscle activation in AIS. PubMed and Embase databases were searched using terms: adolescent idiopathic scoliosis AND electromyogra* (EMG). Identified studies (n = 94) were screened for eligibility. We identified 16 studies, from which 136 EMG outcome measures contributed to the review.

For EMG onset, one of two studies provided evidence of earlier muscle activation on the convex compared to concave side of the spine, particularly in those with progressive AIS. For EMG amplitude, 43 outcome measures provided evidence of convex > concave activation, 85 outcomes supported no difference between sides, and 8 outcomes supported concave > convex activation. Greater activity on the convex than concave side was more commonly demonstrated at the scoliosis curve apex level, in people with single right thoracic [progressive] curves, during postural tasks.

Further research is needed to determine the relationships between muscle activity asymmetry and spinal curve parameters in a variety of motor tasks. Recommendations are provided to improve methodological quality for future studies of spinal neuromuscular function in AIS, as well as more comprehensive and transparent reporting of methods and results.

Impact and interest:

17 citations in Scopus
15 citations in Web of Science®
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ID Code: 228720
Item Type: Contribution to Journal (Review article)
Refereed: Yes
ORCID iD:
Izatt, M. T.orcid.org/0000-0002-4926-3077
Pivonka, P.orcid.org/0000-0001-9183-530X
Measurements or Duration: 11 pages
Keywords: Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis, Asymmetry, Electromyography, EMG, spine biomechanics
DOI: 10.1016/j.jelekin.2022.102640
ISSN: 1050-6411
Pure ID: 106447706
Divisions: Current > Research Centres > Centre for Biomedical Technologies
Current > QUT Faculties and Divisions > Faculty of Engineering
Current > Schools > School of Mechanical, Medical & Process Engineering
Copyright Owner: 2022 Elsevier Ltd.
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Deposited On: 07 Mar 2022 04:41
Last Modified: 13 Feb 2025 12:10