Prevalence and Characteristics of Idiopathic Scoliosis in Dancers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: The prevalence of Idiopathic Scoliosis (IS) is 2% to 3% in the general population. The presence of a hump can be detected clinically, but only X-rays can confirm the diagnosis. Early detection and treatment can prevent IS progression and complications. There is a lack of knowledge about the actual prevalence and predictors of IS among dancers.Purpose: To investigate the prevalence of IS in dancers, how it is diagnosed and classified, and explore possible predictors. Study Design: Prevalence systematic review with meta-analysis.Methods: PubMed, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL Plus databases and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched up to August 2024.Study Selection Criteria: Original research involving dancers who received a diagnosis of IS and reporting a measure of its prevalence, or sufficient data to compute it, were included.Data Synthesis: Random-effects model meta-analysis. The risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklists. The certainty of evidence was judged using the GRADE approach.Results: Fifteen studies, accounting for 5709 dancers aged 8 to 41 years, were included in the analysis. The overall prevalence of IS was 15.8% (10%-22%). When X-rays were not performed, clinical examination alone skewed the prevalence, making it appear 48.1% to 73.4% higher.Conclusions: The prevalence of IS in dancers, regardless of level of training or age, has been found to be at least three times higher than in the general population. However, the lack of standardized assessment and diagnostic tools makes these results questionable. Dancers' screening for scoliosis, with standardized testing procedures, should be used for X-rays referral, to allow for early diagnosis and treatment.Trial Registration Registered on PROSPERO the 01/05/2023: CRD42023418019.