Effect of myofascial release on spinal curvature, premenstrual symptoms, and quality of life in scoiliotic females with dysmenorrhea: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract Background Idiopathic scoliosis is a common musculoskeletal disorder that affects spinal and pelvic alignment and exacerbates menstrual discomfort in young females. Studies have reported the importance of involving myofascial components in treating scoliotic patients; however, few studies have been conducted. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effect of adding myofascial release (MFR) to corrective stabilizing exercise on spinal curvature, premenstrual symptoms, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in young females with idiopathic scoliosis. Methods Fifty-two females with idiopathic scoliosis, aged 18–25 years, and with a body mass index (BMI) of 18.5–24.9 kg/m2 were randomly assigned to two groups equal in number. The control group received corrective stabilizing exercises two sessions/week for 8 weeks. The MFR group received the same exercises and MFR therapy two sessions/week for 8 weeks. The scoliometer was used to evaluate thoracic and lumbar angles, Italian Spine Youth Quality of Life (ISYQOL) to assess HRQOL, and menstrual symptoms questionnaire (MSQ) to evaluate premenstrual symptoms before and after the treatment. Results There was a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in the thoracic and lumbar angles, menstrual backache, and PMS score and a significant increase (p < 0.05) in the HRQOL score in the control and MFR groups. However, there were no significant differences (p > 0.05) between both groups after treatment. Conclusion Corrective stabilizing exercises with or without MFR effectively improve thoracic and lumbar angles, HRQOL, menstrual backache, and premenstrual symptoms. The addition of MFR to stabilizing exercises produced changes that are clinically important for females with idiopathic scoliosis.