What is scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a sideways spinal curve with rotation of the vertebrae. It often appears during growth, but it can also begin or progress in adulthood. Uneven shoulders or a rib prominence may draw attention to a possible curve, but appearance alone cannot confirm the diagnosis or measure its severity.
How is scoliosis assessed?
Assessment includes medical history, examination, posture and gait. Standing full-spine X-rays may be used to measure the curve and monitor change. The clinician considers age, growth stage, curve pattern, pain and neurological symptoms. MRI may be advised in some situations, but it is not required for every patient.
Observation, bracing and surgery
Observation may be appropriate for smaller or stable curves. A brace may be recommended for some growing children and adolescents to reduce the chance of progression; it does not straighten every spine and is not right for everyone. Surgery is discussed for selected severe or progressive curves or meaningful functional impact after individual assessment. Published angle ranges are guides, not fixed rules for every person.
When should you seek an assessment?
Arrange an assessment for increasing trunk or shoulder asymmetry, persistent pain, weakness or numbness, walking difficulty, or breathing problems in severe deformity. Scoliosis in children and spinal deformity in adults have different considerations and treatment goals. A brace or operation should not be selected from a single scan without clinical review.
Frequently asked questions
Does everyone with scoliosis need an operation?
No. Many people need observation or non-surgical care; surgery is considered for selected cases based on curve severity, progression, symptoms and growth.
Can a brace treat scoliosis?
For some growing children and adolescents, bracing may reduce the chance of curve progression. It is not suitable for everyone and needs specialist guidance.
Can scoliosis be diagnosed from a phone photo?
A photo may show asymmetry worth checking, but diagnosis and measurement require a clinical assessment and appropriate imaging.
Does scoliosis always cause pain?
No. Scoliosis does not prove that it is the cause of pain; symptoms and other possible causes need assessment.
Sources for further reading
Would you like an assessment?
Contact the clinic to arrange an appointment at a suitable branch.
Book on WhatsApp