Scoliosis
Diagnosing scoliosis
Source: NHS
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Scoliosis can usually be diagnosed after a physical examination of the spine, ribs, hips and shoulders.
You may be asked to bend forward to see if any areas are particularly prominent. For example, one of your shoulders may be higher than the other or there may be a bulge in your back.
Initial examinations are usually carried out by a GP. If scoliosis is suspected, you should be referred to an orthopaedic specialist (a specialist in conditions that affect the skeleton) for further tests and to discuss treatment.
Scans
The orthopaedic specialist will take an X-ray to confirm the diagnosis of scoliosis.
The X-ray images will also help determine the shape, direction, location and angle of the curve. The medical name for the angle the spine curves is known as the Cobb angle.
In some cases, scans such as a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan or a computerised tomography (CT) scan may also be recommended.
Articles for Scoliosis
Causes of scoliosis
In most cases, the cause of scoliosis is unknown and the condition cannot usually be prevented.
Diagnosing scoliosis
Scoliosis can usually be diagnosed after a physical examination of the spine, ribs, hips and shoulders.
Introduction
Scoliosis is the abnormal twisting and sideways curvature of the spine.
Possible complications of scoliosis
Physical complications of scoliosis are rare, although serious problems can develop if the condition is left untreated.
Treating scoliosis in adults
Back pain is one of the main problems caused by scoliosis in adults, so treatment is mainly aimed at pain relief.
Treating scoliosis in children
If your child has scoliosis, the treatment recommended for them will depend on their age and the severity of their condition.
