Introduction: Congenital malformations and amputations of the upper limbs create asymmetries that may lead to scoliosis due to disturbed musculoskeletal balance. The most common conditions are amelia, phocomelia, hemimelia and Poland syndrome, all of which affect posture and spinal loading. Early prosthetic care for children with congenital or acquired limb absence helps promote symmetrical posture and reduces the risk of scoliosis. Scoliosis is a three-dimensional spinal deformity diagnosed through clinical examination and radiography, while treatment includes physiotherapy, orthoses or surgery. Purpose: The aim of the thesis is to investigate the association between congenital upper-limb deformities and scoliosis, and to analyse possible causal relationships based on literature and a case study of a patient born with a right-hand anomaly due to Poland syndrome. Methods: A review of professional and scientific literature in Slovenian and English was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar and ScienceDirect. The empirical section presents a case study of a patient with Poland syndrome and a congenital anomaly of the right hand. Postural asymmetry and thoracic and lumbar scoliosis were observed from childhood. Data on postural development, treatment and rehabilitation were analysed. Results: The patient underwent early surgical correction, orthotic care and rehabilitation. Mild scoliosis appeared in childhood but was successfully managed with physiotherapy, dynamic bracing and regular exercise. In adulthood, he lives an active life without major restrictions, using both hands for work and sports. Discussion and conclusion: Congenital upper-limb deformities cause body asymmetry, disrupt muscle balance and increase the risk of scoliosis. The case study confirmed that unilateral arm deformity leads to compensatory postural and movement patterns, resulting in thoracic and lumbar scoliosis. Timely use of orthoses, braces and physiotherapy can reduce spinal curvature and support functional independence. Conservative treatment is effective in limiting scoliosis progression even in non-idiopathic cases. Comprehensive, multidisciplinary care which combines medical, rehabilitative and psychosocial support is essential for improving posture, quality of life and long-term rehabilitation outcomes.
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