# Early Detection of Scoliosis

[Scoliosis,](/resources/tag/scoliosis) [Early Detection](/resources/tag/early-detection) 

When scoliosis is detected early, there is a greater chance of being able to stop the spinal curve's progression in children who are still growing. The child's age and the degree of the spinal curve will determine the best steps for treatment. When scoliosis goes undetected, most children whose curve is so severe (50 degrees or greater) often have surgery.

The [Scoliosis Research Society](https://www.srs.org/patients-and-families/common-questions-and-glossary/frequently-asked-questions/diagnosis--screening-of-scoliosis), American Academy of Pediatrics, and American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommend that girls get screened twice at ages 10, and 12 and boys get screened once at age 13 or 14.

1\. **Stand up Straight.**

Observe your child from the back.

- Are the shoulder blades at the same height?
- Is their back curved at all?
- Is one shoulder higher than the other?
- Does one arm look slightly farther away from the body than the other?

Picture of an Adams Forward Bend Test  2\. **Have your child bend forward.**

You are looking for signs that:

- one hip is lower than the other
- one side of the ribcage is higher than the other
- uneven lower back

Wearing clothes.  3\. **How does their clothing hang?**

- Is the hem of a skirt or dress even?
- Does their shirt appear crooked?
- Is one pant leg longer than the other?

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Take a walk.  4\. **Watch as your child walks.**

- Do they have a slight limp?
- Does one leg look shorter than the other?
- Does their body lean to one side?

It can be genetic.  5\. **Does Scoliosis run in your family?**

- Do you have scoliosis?
- Did anyone in your family have scoliosis?

It is not 100% certain that if there is scoliosis in your family it will automatically be passed down to your children. However, it is important to know your family health history. The [Scoliosis Research Society](https://www.srs.org/patients-and-families/common-questions-and-glossary/frequently-asked-questions/diagnosis--screening-of-scoliosis) says about 1 in 3 children whose parents have scoliosis will develop scoliosis. It’s considered a partially genetic condition. Doctors do not yet know exactly what gene can cause it.

It is often more comfortable to perform any of these home diagnostics with your child in the privacy of somewhere they are comfortable. You know your child better than anyone. If you observe any of the above signs, it is important to have a medical professional take a look as soon as possible to diagnose scoliosis early. Early detection allows for a variety of treatment options.

##  FAQ 

- Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis commonly surfaces during the key years of adolescence, especially from age 10 to 15, a vital time due to the swift bone growth that can intensify spinal deviations.

However scoliosis can be detected in younger children also.
- The condition also shows a distinct gender angle, with girls more frequently developing Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis than boys, around a 4:1 ratio when it comes to curves that need medical follow-up. This gender difference becomes even more striking with increasing curve severity.
- For parents, understanding the age and gender factors is critical—it can direct closer observation of their children when it's most required. Spotting the signs early is essential for managing this condition effectively, making parental alertness to these risk factors a key part of ensuring timely and appropriate care.

Read more in the article above.

####  Related Articles 

#####  [Types of Scoliosis: A Visual and Practical Guide for Families](https://spinaltech.com/resources/types-of-scoliosis) 

#####  [A Parent's Guide to Understanding Scoliosis](https://spinaltech.com/resources/a-parents-guide-to-understanding-scoliosis) 

#####  [Can Food Help Manage Scoliosis?](https://spinaltech.com/resources/can-food-help-manage-scoliosis)