TITLE:
Synergistic Effect of Wuqinxi and Standardized Exercise Therapy on Physical Correction and Psychological Rehabilitation in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: A Holistic Review
AUTHORS:
Tian Ma, Yabo Liu
KEYWORDS:
Traditional Health Preservation, Wuqinxi, Scoliosis-Specific Exercise Therapy, Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis, Mind-Body Rehabilitation, Medical Humanistic Connotation, Integrated Chinese and Western Rehabilitation
JOURNAL NAME:
Yangtze Medicine,
Vol.10 No.2,
June
22,
2026
ABSTRACT: Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) represents a prevalent three-dimensional spinal deformity globally, imposing a dual burden of physical and psychological morbidity on adolescents. Beyond skeletal asymmetry and trunk dysfunction, AIS frequently precipitates psychological distress—including anxiety, diminished self-esteem, and social avoidance—necessitating a holistic rehabilitative approach. Grounded in the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) philosophy of “mind-body unity” and “harmony of form and spirit”, this review proposes an integrative model combining Wuqinxi (Five-Animal Frolics) with modern standardized scoliosis-specific exercises. Wuqinxi, a traditional regimen, offers holistic benefits through dynamic stretching, regulated respiration, and mindfulness, thereby dredging meridians, balancing paraspinal muscle tension, and soothing emotions. Complementarily, evidence-based modalities such as the Schroth method provide targeted three-dimensional spinal correction, deep core activation, and neuromuscular control enhancement. The synergistic integration of these approaches generates biomechanical, neuromuscular, and psychological advantages: reducing Cobb angles and delaying curve progression while concurrently alleviating psychological distress and improving training compliance. By bridging traditional TCM health preservation with modern rehabilitation, this model not only advances integrated mind-body rehabilitation but also offers a novel theoretical framework for non-surgical management of mild-to-moderate AIS, highlighting patient-centered humanistic care.