Aynur METİN TERZİBAŞIOĞLU, Filiz YILDIZ AYDIN, Ahsen BÜYÜKASLAN, Yelda SOLUK ÖZDEMİR, Çiğdem ÇINAR
Journal of Turkish Spinal Surgery - 2026;37(3):110-115
Objective: The relationship between sports participation, trunk asymmetry, and postural disorders remains controversial. This study aimed to investigate trunk asymmetry and associated postural disorders among licensed Optimist and Laser sailors. Materials and Methods: This single-center cross-sectional study included licensed Optimist and Laser sailors aged 9-18 years. Postural assessment included the Adams forward-bending test; evaluation of shoulder, scapular, and lumbar asymmetry; scoliometer measurements; thoracic, knee, and ankle deformities; thoracic kyphosis; lumbar lordosis; and skinfold thickness measurements. Results: A total of 58 licensed sailors were included. Five participants (8.6%) had an axial trunk rotation (ATR) greater than 5 derece, while one participant (1.7%) had an ATR greater than 7 derece. Mild shoulder asymmetry was observed in 25 sailors (43%), and mild scapular asymmetry was observed in 30 sailors (51%). Mild low-back asymmetry was identified in 13 sailors (22%), whereas moderate asymmetry was observed in seven sailors (12%). Anterior chest deformity was detected in 3 sailors (5%), lumbar lordosis in 10 sailors (17%), and thoracic kyphosis in 5 sailors (8%). No significant correlation was found between scoliometric measurements and skinfold thickness values (p>0.05). Significant correlations were identified between sailing duration and low-back asymmetry; between lumbar lordosis and thigh fat percentage; and between shoulder asymmetry and weekly training duration, calf fat percentage, scapular asymmetry, and low-back asymmetry. Conclusion: Young sailors may demonstrate trunk asymmetry and postural alterations associated with repetitive asymmetric loading patterns. However, due to the cross-sectional design, the absence of a control group, and the lack of radiographic confirmation, no causal relationship between sailing participation and IS can be established. Further controlled longitudinal studies are required to clarify these associations.
