Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine that often develops during periods of rapid growth in childhood, often between the ages of 10 to 16. There are a few different types of scoliosis, but the most common is idiopathic scoliosis, meaning there is no known cause. These are usually otherwise healthy children, with no symptoms beyond a curve in the spine. The earlier scoliosis is detected, the sooner we can start treatment and help prevent it from progressing.

Not sure if your child’s back pain is stemming from scoliosis? Explore our guide: When to See a Spine Specialist to learn about additional spinal conditions and the warning symptoms to be aware of. l”

1. Visual Back Check

The exam starts with a visual assessment of your child’s back while they stand up straight and look forward. The nurse or physician will check:

• Shoulder height (to see if one is higher than the other)
• Shoulder blade position and symmetry
• Waist creases and the level of the pelvis

This helps to determine if there are any visible imbalances, which may be a sign of scoliosis or sometimes just normal variations in posture.

2. Forward Bend Test

Next, your child will bend forward at the waist with their arms and head relaxed. This is one of the most reliable tests for scoliosis. At this stage, the doctor will look for any rotation or unevenness in the child’s rib cage or in their muscles along the spine.

3. Muscle Strength Testing

Next, the doctor will check the strength in your child’s legs, feet, and toes. This helps confirm to the doctors if the nerves are functioning properly and that there are no neurological concerns related to the spine.

4. Hamstring Flexibility (Popliteal Angle Check)

Tightness or differences in flexibility between the legs can sometimes suggest a neurological cause of scoliosis. The physician or nurse will gently stretch each leg and compare the angles to see if both sides are symmetrical.

5. Abdominal Reflex Check

With a gentle stroke of the skin near the belly button, this checks for a natural, slight movement of the belly button in all directions. This response tells us that the nerves in the spine are functioning well.

6. Reflex Testing

Finally, the Achilles (ankle) and patellar (knee) reflexes are tested using a reflex hammer. These are routine checks that give more information about your child’s nerve and muscle health.

My Child Has a Positive Screening, Now What?

At Seaview Orthopaedics, there are a few main ways we treat scoliosis:

1. Observation:  For mild curves, we may simply monitor it over time with exams and occasional X-rays every 4 to 6 months.
2. Schroth Physical Therapy:  For mild to moderate curves, this specialized therapy has shown great results. We’re proud to have certified Schroth therapists here at Seaview Orthopaedics. In some cases, Schroth therapy can even reduce the curve, and in others, it helps prevent it from worsening.
3. Bracing:  For moderate curves in children who are still growing, we may recommend a brace. The goal of bracing is to prevent progression. The best results for scoliosis come from combining bracing methods with Schroth therapy. For more details on what to expect if your child’s scoliosis is left untreated, see our FAQ guide: Pediatric Scoliosis FAQs

Surgery is reserved for more severe curves—typically over 50 degrees. Research shows that curves of the this degree tend to continue progressing even after a child finishes growing, while mild and moderate curves tend to stay stable into adulthood.

In cases where surgery is needed, our surgeons may use the Mazor Robotic Guidance System to ensure precise spinal correction and a safer, more predictable procedure. For more details on how this technology works, explore: Mazor Robotic Guidance System.

At Seaview Orthopaedics, our goal is to help patients and their families feel reassured and supported. Scoliosis can occur in young, otherwise healthy children, and should not be seen as a limitation. It should not stop kids from playing sports, dancing, or doing the activities they love. Our team is here to monitor the condition, manage any changes, and provide personalized care every step of the way—so each child can continue living a full and active life with confidence.