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    Scoliosis Screening

    Scoliosis Screening



    Topic Overview

    A doctor may test a young person for Reference scoliosis Opens New Window during a routine physical exam. In schools, screening may be provided annually for students between the ages of 10 and 14 (grades 5 through 9). The exam takes about 30 seconds and may be done by a school nurse or physical education teacher.

    • The examiner first views the child from behind, looking for uneven shoulders, hips, or waistline or for shoulder blades that stick out or are uneven.
    • The child then bends forward from the waist, with the arms hanging down loosely and the palms touching (forward-bending test). The examiner looks for any unevenness, such as one side of the rib cage that is higher than the other. The examiner may also view the child from the side to detect a hump on the upper back (kyphosis).
    • Also, the examiner may measure the angle of trunk rotation (ATR) with a device called a Reference scoliometer Opens New Window.

    Some states require screening for scoliosis by law. But health experts don't agree with whether or not to screen for scoliosis.Reference 1, Reference 2 Screening can lead to early treatment and may prevent curves from getting worse, but screening can also lead to more testing or treatment for children who would not have needed it. Some experts believe that children (especially daughters) of women who have scoliosis should be screened for scoliosis regularly throughout their late childhood and teen years.Reference 3 If you are concerned about screening for scoliosis, talk to your child's doctor.

    For more information, see the topic Scoliosis.




    By: Reference Healthwise Staff Last Revised: Reference July 21, 2011
    Medical Review: Reference John Pope, MD - Pediatrics
    Reference Robert B. Keller, MD - Orthopedics


    This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.


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