Scoliosis (Page 4)
Pain is not a typical symptom of scoliosis. Back pain in a child or teen who has scoliosis may indicate another problem and the child should be evaluated by a pediatrician and/or spine specialist. If a child or teen has back pain and also has scoliosis, it is very important that he or she see a doctor to find out the cause of the pain, as it is probably something other than the scoliosis causing the back pain and may require treatment. Neurologic injury is also a very rare presenting symptom of scoliosis.
Early detection is essential for scoliosis treatment to be most effective. In general, people with a family history of spinal deformity are at greater risk for developing scoliosis.
Scoliosis testing
Frequently, a scoliosis curve in the spine is first diagnosed in school exams or in a regular check up with a pediatrician. Most students are given the Adam’s forward bend test routinely in school when they are in fifth and/or sixth grade to determine whether or not they may have scoliosis. The test involves the student bending forward with arms stretched downward toward the floor and knees straight, while being observed by a healthcare professional. This angle most clearly shows any asymmetry in the spine and/or trunk of the adolescent’s body.
