Mendeley  

Zotero  

Mashhadi Alizadeh S, Khoshraftar Yazdi N, Alirezaei Noghondar F. The Effect of a Pilates Exercise Program on Kyphosis Angle and Electrical Activity of Muscles in Kyphotic Adolescent Women. PTJ 2026; 16 (3) :345-358
URL: http://ptj.uswr.ac.ir/article-1-711-en.html

Purpose: Correcting abnormal thoracic spine alignment is essential because it can affect muscle function. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Pilates exercise on the thoracic kyphosis angle and muscle activity in women with functional hyperkyphosis.
Methods: Twenty-three women with hyperkyphosis deformity were randomly assigned to the Pilates group (PG, n=13) and the control group (CG, n=10). The PG participated in 18 training sessions. Kyphosis angle was measured using an inclinometer, and muscle electrical activity was measured using surface electromyography in two stages: pre-test and post-test. The exercises were performed over six weeks. Data were analyzed using analysis of covariance and independent t-test.
Results: A significant difference was observed in the amount of thoracic kyphosis between PG and CG (P=0.001). In addition, there was a reduction in the electrical activity of the upper trapezius (UT) muscles (P=0.001) and an increase in the electrical activity in the middle trapezius (MT) (P=0.001), the lower parts of the trapezius muscles (P=0.001), and the erector spine muscles (P=0.001, P=0.04) in the PG group compared to the CG group.
Conclusion: Pilates exercises can significantly benefit those with thoracic kyphosis by improving spinal curvature and engaging surrounding muscles. These exercises enhance strength, flexibility, and coordination in the chest area. In addition, practical outcomes, such as improved body image, reduced anxiety, increased body awareness, and improved training, are achieved after performing Pilates exercises. Therefore, Pilates is an excellent choice for improving posture and strengthening supportive muscles.