Scoliosis Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms

Symptoms include:

Uneven shoulders
Prominent shoulder blade or ribs
Uneven waist
An elevated hip
Leaning to one side
Chronic back pain (usually only if left untreated for several years)

More severe cases of scoliosis can lead to:

Breathing difficulties due to pressure on the lungs and heart
Body image issues

Diagnosis

Scoliosis is often screened routinely in well-child visits and schools. At an office visit your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. The doctor will examine the following:

Back
Shoulders
Chest
Pelvis
Legs
Feet
Skin

Other tests and diagnostic methods may include:

X-ray or MRI

The doctor may recommend an x-ray if you have significant spinal curves, unusual back pain, or signs of brain and spinal cord problems. Occasionally, more tests are needed. You may also have a magnetic resonance imaging x-ray (MRI).

Curve Measurement

The doctor measures the angle of the curve on x-rays. In general, curves that are greater than 20 degrees require treatment. Doctors classify curves of the spine by their location, shape, pattern, and cause. They use this information to decide how to treat the scoliosis.

Referral to a Spine Doctor

Your doctor may refer you to an orthopedic spine specialist, a doctor who has experience treating people with scoliosis.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2024 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.