Cortical dynamics of sensorimotor information processing associated with balance control in adolescents with and without idiopathic scoliosis.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims at examining the cortical dynamics of sensorimotor information processing related to balance control in participants with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) and in age-matched controls (CTL).

METHODS

Cortical dynamics during standing balance control were assessed in 13 girls with AIS and 13 age-matched controls using electroencephalography. Time-frequency analysis were used to determine frequency power during ankle proprioception alteration (ankle tendons co-vibration interval) or reintegration of ankle proprioception (post-vibration interval) with or without vision.

RESULTS

Balance control did not differ between groups. In the co-vibration interval, a significant suppression in alpha (8-12 Hz) and beta (13-30 Hz) band power and a significant increase in theta (4-7 Hz) band power were found respectively in the vision and non-vision condition in the AIS group compared to the CTL group. In the post-vibration interval, significant suppressions in beta (13-30 Hz) and gamma (30-50 Hz) band power were observed in the AIS group in the non-vision condition.

CONCLUSION

Participants with AIS showed brain oscillations differences compared to CTL in the sensorimotor cortex while controlling their balance in various sensory conditions.

SIGNIFICANCE

Future study using evaluation of cortical dynamics could serve documenting whether rehabilitation programs have an effect on sensorimotor function in AIS.