Studying Visual Perception Changes in Teenagers With Idiopathic Scoliosis to Understand Balance Issues

What this Trial Is About

Idiopathic scoliosis is a complex three-dimensional twisting of the spine that typically appears in healthy teenagers without a clear cause. Researchers are exploring a theory that scoliosis may result from a problem in how the body maintains balance, particularly focusing on how visual information is processed alongside the vestibular system and proprioception. This study aims to understand whether teens with scoliosis have difficulties using visual cues to keep their posture stable. Participants will undergo motion analysis to track their body movements and responses to different environments. This experimental assessment focuses on vertical perception, using advanced technology to capture detailed motion data. The study includes both patients with progressive idiopathic scoliosis who are candidates for orthopedic or surgical treatment and a control group of healthy boys and girls aged 11 to 18. During the study, researchers will measure markers of balance and stability such as Margin of Dynamic Stability, Center of Pressure, and Extrapolated Center of Mass at enrollment. Secondary outcomes include evaluating Base of Support, Visual Field Perception, and Subjective Visual Vertical. Participants will complete assessments related to posture and visual perception to help clarify the role of visual processing in scoliosis. The study runs from April 2026 to September 2027 and includes both healthy volunteers and scoliosis patients.

Characterization of Visual Perception Impairments in Patients With Idiopathic Scoliosis