If you, or someone you know has children, it’s really important to know how to check them for scoliosis (perform a scoliosis screening). Early detection is key!
Why is this?
This is because juveniles (3-10 years of age) and adolescences (10-18) are at a higher risk of developing scoliosis and for it to develop at a rapid rate.
Early detection is key!
If a scoliosis is detected early it means early and appropriate intervention can take place, leading to better management and out outcomes.
Screening your child is easy and quick to perform.
HOW TO PERFORM A SCOLIOSIS CHECK ON YOUR CHILD AT HOME
The first step is you need to be able to see your child’s back. So have them either with their shirt or in a swim top.
You can do this with them sitting or with them standing.
Now you have a good starting point, what you will be looking for is any asymmetry of the spine and body
THE 5 THINGS TO LOOK FOR WHEN CHECKING FOR A SCOLIOSIS…
There are 5 areas of asymmetry you’re going to need to look for. Start from the the bottom and work your way up! Check for:
Uneven hips
Asymmetrical waist
Visible curve
Prominent shoulder blade
Uneven shoulders
I explain this in more detail in a recent video
ADAM’S TEST FOR SCOLIOSIS
This is a simple test where you get your child to slowly touch their toes and round through their back. You’ll need to assess the levelness of their back and if their ribs on one side are more prominent than the other. If there is a developing scoliosis this test can help to highlight spinal asymmetry.
WHAT TO DO NEXT?
If you notice one or more of these sign of asymmetry and suspect a scoliosis, or you are not confident in your screening, then a through spinal assessment is the ideal next step.
That’s where we come in at level Spine Chiropractic!
We take a thorough history and comprehensive spinal exam to better under your child’s spinal health. If indicated we will refer for spinal imaging as the gold standard of assessment.
How to book a consultation
To book an initial assessment for you or your child is easy and fast.
You can do either of the following:
1) Organise a free phone consultation
2) Book in directly for an initial assessment online by click the button below.