Scoliosis

When I was a kid, scoliosis checks were regularly conducted at school. It is my understanding that this is not the case now, so I will explain what scoliosis is, how to check for it, and what to do if you suspect your child has one. Please note that this is a very brief overview of scoliosis.

What is a Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a lateral or sideways curve of the spine when looking from behind. It is not that common, roughly 3% of children aged 10 to 16 years, however it can be quite serious depending on the age of onset and how big the curve is. A scoliosis usually develops at ages 10 to 12 for girls, and 12 to 14 for boys. The curve is measured using a technique called Cobb's Angle. A Cobb angle of <10 degrees is not considered a scoliosis.

Image by macrovector on Freepik

The major type of scoliosis is known as Idiopathic Scoliosis, meaning that cause is not known, which is not quite accurate as there are many factors with a genetic component as well.

Scoliosis is much more common in girls than boys.

How to check for a Scoliosis?

The Spine Society of Australia recommends that girls should be screened for scoliosis at ages 10 and 12 as earlier detection often yields better outcomes.

The best screening test is called the bend forward or Adam's test. To perform this test, you ask your child to bend forward as if they are trying to touch their toes. What you are looking for is one side of the ribs to be higher than the other.

Image taken from "How to detect Scoliosis" Scoliosis Australia

What to do if your suspect your child has a Scoliosis?

If you suspect that your child has a scoliosis, you should take them to see a healthcare professional such as a musculoskeletal based chiropractor, osteopath, physiotherapist, or doctor for further evaluation. A curve less than 19 degrees found at under 10 years of age has a 25% chance of progressing and at 13-15 years of age a 10% chance of progressing, so the earlier a scoliosis is detected the better.

The healthcare professional will most likely order an x-ray and the Cobb angle measured. For curves 19 degrees and under, conservative treatment and monitoring is usually all that is required. For curves greater 20 degrees or above a referral to a scoliosis clinic is required.

If you would like further information on scoliosis you can go to the Scoliosis Australia website. I am also available to provide free information and screening sessions. Please feel free to contact me regarding this.