Skip to main content

Scoliosis in Children

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 3, 2024.

What is scoliosis?

Scoliosis is an abnormal curving of the spine. Scoliosis can develop at any age in children but often starts during adolescence.

Scoliosis

What increases my child's risk for scoliosis?

In most cases, the cause of scoliosis is not known. The following may increase your child's risk:

What are the signs and symptoms of scoliosis?

How is scoliosis diagnosed?

Your child's healthcare provider will ask if your child has any other health conditions. The provider may ask about your child's growth and development. Tell the provider about any surgery your child had. The provider will examine your child and ask him or her to bend forward. Your child's shoulders, hips, legs, and ribs will also be checked. Your child may also need the following tests:

How is scoliosis treated?

Treatment depends on when the condition started and how severe it is. The goal of treatment is to correct or control the curving of the spine and prevent more problems. If the curve is mild or your child is almost fully grown, his or her healthcare provider may recommend regular visits to monitor the scoliosis. Your child may need any of the following:

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:

When should I seek immediate care?

When should I call my child's doctor?

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your child's care. Learn about your child's health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your child's healthcare providers to decide what care you want for your child. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

© Copyright Merative 2024 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.

Learn more about Scoliosis

Treatment options

Symptoms and treatments

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.