About this condition
Scoliosis is a three-dimensional spinal curvature involving a sideways curve and vertebral rotation. It affects children and adults, but slouching or uneven shoulders alone does not establish the diagnosis.
What you should know
Growth, the measured curve, the likelihood of progression and symptoms influence management. In children, scoliosis may be identified during examination even without pain. A structural curve cannot be safely assessed from photographs alone.
Symptoms and reasons for assessment
Uneven shoulders or shoulder blades, asymmetry at the waist, trunk leaning to one side or clothes hanging unevenly may be noticed. Adults are more likely to report pain. Changes in back shape during rapid growth are worth monitoring.
Other possible explanations
Functional posture changes and scoliosis differ from each other. Not every asymmetry is structural, and a label on a scan is not a substitute for a specialist assessment of progression.
How the problem is assessed
Examination assesses alignment and spinal rotation. When clinically indicated, standing radiographs may be used to measure the degree of curvature. An orthopaedic or spine specialist interprets findings in light of age, growth and other risks.
Treatment and follow-up options
Small stable curves may need observation. Others may require scoliosis-specific exercises, bracing during growth or specialist surgical assessment for significant progressive deformity. Massage or manual manipulation cannot be promised to straighten structural scoliosis.
When urgent care is needed
New pronounced weakness, changed sensation or walking, breathing difficulty or severe pain after injury requires prompt medical assessment. Rapidly increasing curvature in a growing child merits timely specialist review. Call 103 for a life-threatening emergency.
Related health information
Posture changes in children; Kyphoscoliosis; Vertebrologist consultation.
Signs and symptoms
Diagnosis and tests
Care and treatment approaches
When to seek urgent care
Frequently asked questions
Does every child with scoliosis need a brace?
No. The decision depends on growth, curve size and risk of progression.
Can massage alone straighten a structural curve?
No. Massage has not been shown to correct structural scoliosis.
How is the degree of scoliosis determined?
A specialist may use standing spinal radiographs when indicated and assess the angle together with growth and symptoms.
Information sources
Medical source links used when preparing this article.
Important information
A medical consultation is needed for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Self-treatment can be harmful to your health.
