HyperkyphosisNCT07047794
Scapula Position and Range of Motion, Strength and Performance in Thoracic Hyperkyphosis
An observational study of Hyperkyphosis, run by Istinye University at 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye).
Trial summary
In the sagittal plane, the average kyphosis angle between the superior endplate of the T1 vertebra and the inferior endplate of the T12 vertebra is approximately 40 degrees. A thoracic spine angle greater than 45 degrees is defined as hyperkyphosis. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 7 to 14 years
- Conditions the study is for
- Hyperkyphosis
- What is being tested?
- Assessment
- How many people
- 36 participants
- Where
- 1 siteTurkey (Türkiye)
- Study dates
- 23 Jun 2025to 30 Dec 2025
- Phase
- Observational
- Are there results?
- None posted in the registry
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 7 to 14 years
- All sexes
- Child
Study population: Children with thoracic hyperkyphosis will be included in our study.
Who may be able to join
- Being between 7-14 years old
- Thoracic kyphosis angle (Cobb) on lateral radiograph: ≥45˚ or kyphosis index ≤13
Who cannot join
- Those who have had major surgery or trauma related to the musculoskeletal system, especially the spine and upper extremities
- Difficulty in perceiving commands
- Rigid deformity in the spine (Scheuermann kyphosis)
- Congenital deformity
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country.
About this study
Official title: Relationship Between Scapula Position and Upper Extremity Joint Range of Motion, Strength and Performance in Children With Thoracic Hyperkyphosis
In the sagittal plane, the average kyphosis angle between the superior endplate of the T1 vertebra and the inferior endplate of the T12 vertebra is approximately 40 degrees. A thoracic spine angle greater than 45 degrees is defined as hyperkyphosis. The most common types of hyperkyphosis observed in juveniles and adolescents are Scheuermann's kyphosis, postural hyperkyphosis, and congenital hyperkyphosis.
Postural hyperkyphosis is the most prevalent form among these types. It results from the weakness of the muscles responsible for maintaining an upright posture and occurs due to external forces acting on the spine. The curvature of the spine in this condition is not rigid and can generally be corrected when the individual is asked to stand upright. Postural hyperkyphosis is typically seen during adolescence.
Read more
An increased thoracic kyphosis angle in postural hyperkyphosis can affect scapular kinematics, potentially leading to shoulder pathologies later in life, such as impingement syndrome, rotator cuff tendinopathy, rotator cuff tears, glenohumeral instability, and adhesive capsulitis. Additionally, hyperkyphosis can negatively affect body image and overall quality of life. If it begins in childhood and remains untreated, hyperkyphosis may persist into adulthood and contribute to increased healthcare expenditures. Given the growing prevalence of technology dependence and its association with rising hyperkyphosis incidence, early management of this deformity during juvenile and adolescent periods is essential in terms of both health and economic outcomes. In managing postural hyperkyphosis, it is important to address not only the angular correction of the deformity but also to consider the entire spine within the kinetic chain model.
The kinetic chain model is a biomechanical concept that defines the body as a system of interconnected segments. Any dysfunction within one segment of the kinetic chain can affect the quality of movement in both the upper and lower segments. The scapula serves as a foundation within this model, acting as a force transmitter that converts potential energy generated by muscles into kinetic energy in the upper extremity. Hyperkyphosis can lead to scapular protraction and downward rotation, disrupting the normal positioning of the scapula. As a result, joint range of motion, strength, and performance in the upper extremity may be negatively affected.
Studies in the literature have shown that scapular positioning and movements play a critical role in upper extremity function. However, no study has been found that specifically investigates the impact of altered scapular position on upper extremity performance in children with thoracic hyperkyphosis. Considering the increasing prevalence of thoracic hyperkyphosis in children due to rising technology addiction, and the potential for this deformity to contribute to upper extremity pathologies in adulthood, identifying its effects is crucial for improving children's physical performance and reducing future healthcare costs.
- Conditions
- Hyperkyphosis
- Being tested
- Assessment
- Keywords
- thoracic hyperkyphosis, scapula, kinetic chain, upper extremity performance
- Medical subject headings
- Kyphosis
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
AssessmentOther
Children with thoracic hyperkyphosis between the ages of 7 and 14 who meet the inclusion criteria will be included in this study, which was conducted to examine the scapular position and its relationships with upper extremity joint range of motion, strength and performance in children with thoracic hyperkyphosis.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Group 1 | Not described Receives: Other: Assessment |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Sociodemographic Status
The sociodemographic status of the participants will be recorded with an evaluation form prepared by the researchers. Information on age, gender, dominant side, exercise habits will be questioned. Participants' privacy will be respected throughout the study, and no photographs will be taken.
Measured: 4 weeks
Upper Extremity Range of Motion
Bilateral shoulder flexion, extension, abduction, elbow flexion, extension and wrist flexion and extension range of motion will be measured with a digital goniometer whose validity and reliability have been demonstrated.
Measured: 4 weeks
Upper Extremity Muscle Strength
Bilateral trapezius upper-middle-lower fibers, serratus anterior, shoulder flexion, extension, abduction, elbow flexion, extension and wrist flexion and extension muscle strength will be measured with a myometer whose validity and reliability have been demonstrated.
Measured: 4 weeks
Flexicurve Ruler
Flexicurve Ruler is a method that is preferred more than other methods because it is cheap, easy to use and has high validity and reliability. In our study, kyphosis curvatures will be measured with Flexicurve Ruler and kyphosis index will be calculated. Kyphosis index is the value found by dividing the width of the thoracic curvature by its length.
Measured: 4 weeks
Wall-Occiput Distance
The increase in the thoracic kyphosis angle will be evaluated and recorded with the wall-occiput distance measurement. The distance between the occiput and the wall will be measured with a ruler while the individual to be tested stands in contact with the wall
Measured: 4 weeks
Scapula Position
The Lateral Scapular Shift Test will be used to determine the scapula position in the 0, 45 and 90° abduction positions of the shoulder joint. Measurements of the scapular position will be made bilaterally in three test positions, between the spinous processes of the thoracic vertebrae in line with the inferior angle of the scapula.
Measured: 4 weeks
Closed Kinetic Chain Upper Extremity Stability Test
Upper extremity will be used for strength, endurance and closed kinetic chain assessment. The test will be applied in a push-up position with the distance between the two hands set at 90 cm, then the number of repetitions completed within 15 seconds by extending one hand towards the other hand will be recorded.
Measured: 4 weeks
Upper Extremity Y-Balance Test
It will be used to evaluate the balance, functionality and stability of the upper extremity and trunk. The evaluation will begin in a push-up position with both arms shoulder-width apart. Starting with the non-dominant hand, the maximum reachable distance in the medial, inferolateral and superolateral directions will be recorded
Measured: 4 weeks
Medicine Ball Throwing Test
Upper extremity will be used to evaluate explosive power. In this test, the distance covered by throwing a 3 kg ball will be recorded
Measured: 4 weeks
Height
The vertical distance from the top of the head to the heels of the individual. It will be measured in centimeters.
Measured: 4 weeks
Weight
The mass of the individual's body in relation to gravity. It will be expressed in kilograms.
Measured: 4 weeks
Waist Circumference
A circumferential measurement taken with a tape measure at the narrowest point of the waist, or at the midpoint between the lower margin of the last palpable rib and the top of the iliac crest, to assess abdominal fat distribution. It will be measured in centimeters
Measured: 4 weeks
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted2 Jul 2025
- Study start23 Jun 2025
- Primary completion1 Dec 2025
- Study completion30 Dec 2025
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for HyperkyphosisStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- More trials run by Istinye UniversityThe sponsor's other registered studies.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Observational
- Observational model
- Other
- Time perspective
- Prospective
- Enrolment
- 36 participants (actual)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Istinye University
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Principal investigator, Kubra Koce, Istinye University
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07047794
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- 23/75
- Status last verified
- Jan 2026
- First submitted
- 23 Jun 2025
- Last updated
- 26 Jan 2026
- Results posted
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- Undecided
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 26 Jan 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Relationship Between Scapula Position and Upper Extremity Joint Range of Motion, Strength and Performance in Children With Thoracic Hyperkyphosis
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07047794
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- 23/75
- Conditions
- Hyperkyphosis
- Keywords
- thoracic hyperkyphosis, scapula, kinetic chain, upper extremity performance
- Study type
- Observational
- Recruitment status
- Completed
- Enrolment
- 36 participants (actual)
- Lead sponsor
- Istinye UniversityUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 23 Jun 2025 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 1 Dec 2025 (actual)
- Study completion
- 30 Dec 2025 (actual)
- First posted
- 2 Jul 2025 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
In the sagittal plane, the average kyphosis angle between the superior endplate of the T1 vertebra and the inferior endplate of the T12 vertebra is approximately 40 degrees. A thoracic spine angle greater than 45 degrees is defined as hyperkyphosis. The most common types of hyperkyphosis observed in juveniles and adolescents are Scheuermann's kyphosis, postural hyperkyphosis, and congenital hyperkyphosis.
Postural hyperkyphosis is the most prevalent form among these types. It results from the weakness of the muscles responsible for maintaining an upright posture and occurs due to external forces acting on the spine. The curvature of the spine in this condition is not rigid and can generally be corrected when the individual is asked to stand upright. Postural hyperkyphosis is typically seen during adolescence.
An increased thoracic kyphosis angle in postural hyperkyphosis can affect scapular kinematics, potentially leading to shoulder pathologies later in life, such as impingement syndrome, rotator cuff tendinopathy, rotator cuff tears, glenohumeral instability, and adhesive capsulitis. Additionally, hyperkyphosis can negatively affect body image and overall quality of life. If it begins in childhood and remains untreated, hyperkyphosis may persist into adulthood and contribute to increased healthcare expenditures. Given the growing prevalence of technology dependence and its association with rising hyperkyphosis incidence, early management of this deformity during juvenile and adolescent periods is essential in terms of both health and economic outcomes. In managing postural hyperkyphosis, it is important to address not only the angular correction of the deformity but also to consider the entire spine within the kinetic chain model.
The kinetic chain model is a biomechanical concept that defines the body as a system of interconnected segments. Any dysfunction within one segment of the kinetic chain can affect the quality of movement in both the upper and lower segments. The scapula serves as a foundation within this model, acting as a force transmitter that converts potential energy generated by muscles into kinetic energy in the upper extremity. Hyperkyphosis can lead to scapular protraction and downward rotation, disrupting the normal positioning of the scapula. As a result, joint range of motion, strength, and performance in the upper extremity may be negatively affected.
Studies in the literature have shown that scapular positioning and movements play a critical role in upper extremity function. However, no study has been found that specifically investigates the impact of altered scapular position on upper extremity performance in children with thoracic hyperkyphosis. Considering the increasing prevalence of thoracic hyperkyphosis in children due to rising technology addiction, and the potential for this deformity to contribute to upper extremity pathologies in adulthood, identifying its effects is crucial for improving children's physical performance and reducing future healthcare costs.
Study design
- Observational model
- Other
- Time perspective
- Prospective
- Number of arms
- 1
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Group 1 | – | Other: Assessment |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 7 to 14 years
- Sex
- All
- Age groups
- Child
- Study population
- Children with thoracic hyperkyphosis will be included in our study.
Key inclusion criteria (2 listed)
- Being between 7-14 years old
- Thoracic kyphosis angle (Cobb) on lateral radiograph: ≥45˚ or kyphosis index ≤13
Key exclusion criteria (4 listed)
- Those who have had major surgery or trauma related to the musculoskeletal system, especially the spine and upper extremities
- Difficulty in perceiving commands
- Rigid deformity in the spine (Scheuermann kyphosis)
- Congenital deformity
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| AssessmentChildren with thoracic hyperkyphosis between the ages of 7 and 14 who meet the inclusion criteria will be included in this study, which was conducted to examine the scapular position and its relationships with upper extremity joint range of motion, strength and performance in children with thoracic hyperkyphosis. | Other | Group 1 |
Primary outcome
Sociodemographic Status
Time frame: 4 weeks
The sociodemographic status of the participants will be recorded with an evaluation form prepared by the researchers. Information on age, gender, dominant side, exercise habits will be questioned. Participants' privacy will be respected throughout the study, and no photographs will be taken.
Upper Extremity Range of Motion
Time frame: 4 weeks
Bilateral shoulder flexion, extension, abduction, elbow flexion, extension and wrist flexion and extension range of motion will be measured with a digital goniometer whose validity and reliability have been demonstrated.
Upper Extremity Muscle Strength
Time frame: 4 weeks
Bilateral trapezius upper-middle-lower fibers, serratus anterior, shoulder flexion, extension, abduction, elbow flexion, extension and wrist flexion and extension muscle strength will be measured with a myometer whose validity and reliability have been demonstrated.
Flexicurve Ruler
Time frame: 4 weeks
Flexicurve Ruler is a method that is preferred more than other methods because it is cheap, easy to use and has high validity and reliability. In our study, kyphosis curvatures will be measured with Flexicurve Ruler and kyphosis index will be calculated. Kyphosis index is the value found by dividing the width of the thoracic curvature by its length.
Wall-Occiput Distance
Time frame: 4 weeks
The increase in the thoracic kyphosis angle will be evaluated and recorded with the wall-occiput distance measurement. The distance between the occiput and the wall will be measured with a ruler while the individual to be tested stands in contact with the wall
Scapula Position
Time frame: 4 weeks
The Lateral Scapular Shift Test will be used to determine the scapula position in the 0, 45 and 90° abduction positions of the shoulder joint. Measurements of the scapular position will be made bilaterally in three test positions, between the spinous processes of the thoracic vertebrae in line with the inferior angle of the scapula.
Closed Kinetic Chain Upper Extremity Stability Test
Time frame: 4 weeks
Upper extremity will be used for strength, endurance and closed kinetic chain assessment. The test will be applied in a push-up position with the distance between the two hands set at 90 cm, then the number of repetitions completed within 15 seconds by extending one hand towards the other hand will be recorded.
Upper Extremity Y-Balance Test
Time frame: 4 weeks
It will be used to evaluate the balance, functionality and stability of the upper extremity and trunk. The evaluation will begin in a push-up position with both arms shoulder-width apart. Starting with the non-dominant hand, the maximum reachable distance in the medial, inferolateral and superolateral directions will be recorded
Medicine Ball Throwing Test
Time frame: 4 weeks
Upper extremity will be used to evaluate explosive power. In this test, the distance covered by throwing a 3 kg ball will be recorded
Height
Time frame: 4 weeks
The vertical distance from the top of the head to the heels of the individual. It will be measured in centimeters.
Weight
Time frame: 4 weeks
The mass of the individual's body in relation to gravity. It will be expressed in kilograms.
Waist Circumference
Time frame: 4 weeks
A circumferential measurement taken with a tape measure at the narrowest point of the waist, or at the midpoint between the lower margin of the last palpable rib and the top of the iliac crest, to assess abdominal fat distribution. It will be measured in centimeters
Results and safety
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 26 Jan 2026.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: Undecided
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part. This study is not recruiting at the moment.
The record lists no contact. Use the official record to reach the sponsor.
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
An observational study of Hyperkyphosis, run by Istinye University at 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye).
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 2 inclusion and 4 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: finished, as of the sponsor's last update on 26 Jan 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye). Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Sociodemographic Status (time frame: 4 weeks). The study lists 12 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 26 Jan 2026.