The whole weight of the human body is carried by 33 bones called vertebrae that are placed on top of each other in harmony the main skeleton of the body created by these vertebrae is called the spine. In a healthy individual, vertebrae are aligned on a straight line in head-feet direction.  Spine has its normal curvatures to fit in with the movement of walking on two legs; to the front in the head and waist area and slightly to the back in the back and sacrum. A healthy normal spine does not curve to right or left.

Deviation from the middle line and curving to the right or left and twisting around itself is called scoliosis. Shoulder asymmetry, hip being projecting more to one side or the spine curving to right or left at the back can be symptoms of scoliosis.

Scoliosis can be seen at any age group but in most frequently manifests in adolescence. In every then adolescent child, 1 has a significant degree of scoliosis and it can be seen at any time of the adolescence. Most of the scoliosis cases are in unknown category. This scoliosis is observed 8 times more in girls. Scoliosis examination is simple. Examination by bending the child forward is the first step in scoliosis screening and diagnosis. Regular examination of the child until spina development is complete is highly important for early diagnosis. Advanced examinations shall be done for children whose clinical examination creates suspicion of scoliosis.

Only 2 or 3 children in every ten children diagnosed with scoliosis require medical treatment. Treatment options vary by the age of the child and degree of scoliosis. Surgery is considered for advanced cases. Early diagnosis by following back examination of girls after primary school is the easiest way to avoid surgical treatment. Children thus diagnosed can be treated by using orthesis.

Contents of the page are for information purposes only, you must consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.