How to know if your child has scoliosis: signs and symptoms

When your child has scoliosis, it’s important to recognize the signs and symptoms. That’s why at Riley Children’s, we’re here to provide you with the right support and resources to help your child receive the proper care they need. We asked Daniel Drake, MD, pediatric orthopedic surgeon at Riley Children’s, to guide you through understanding scoliosis, what it means and what next steps to take.

What is scoliosis?

Scoliosis is an orthopedic condition where the spine curves and rotates in different directions as a child grows. It commonly develops between the ages of 10 – 15 years. If left untreated, scoliosis can lead to a severe spinal deformity, possible pain and decreased self-image. The three types of scoliosis include:

• Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (most common type)
• Congenital scoliosis (present at birth)
• Neuromuscular scoliosis (caused by conditions like spina bifida and cerebral palsy)

What are the causes of scoliosis?

While the exact cause remains unknown, scoliosis is most common in children and teens as they grow. It is more common in girls than boys, and it often runs in families. Other factors that may cause scoliosis include birth defects, existing neuromuscular conditions or spinal cord irregularities.

What are the physical and behavioral signs of scoliosis?

If you suspect scoliosis in your child, it is important to look for the following physical signs:

• Uneven shoulders or shoulder blades
• Uneven hips or asymmetric waist
• A prominent rib cage on one side
• A noticeable curve in the spine when bending forward
• Muscles that are more prominent on one side of the back
• Clothes that don’t fit properly or hang unevenly

Scoliosis can also affect your child’s behavior. They might:

• Complain of back pain or fatigue after sitting or standing for long periods
• Have body image concerns
• Experience low self-esteem

How is scoliosis diagnosed?

If you suspect scoliosis in your child, early intervention and diagnosis is important to prevent the spinal curve from worsening. Immediately make a visit to your primary care provider, where they will first perform a “forward bend test” to indicate a deformity or curve in the spine. If a curve is observed, you may be sent to an orthopedic specialist to further diagnose workup using imaging tests such as spinal radiographs (or X-rays) and possibly an MRI and CT scan.

What treatment plan is available for people with scoliosis?

Patients will have an individualized treatment plan, depending on the severity of the scoliosis curvature. Some treatment options might include:

• Observation: If your child has mild scoliosis, they will be monitored through regular check-ups.
• Physical therapy: For mild and moderate scoliosis, The Schroth Method of physical therapy is specifically designed for scoliosis treatment, with the goal of creating spinal balance and stability.
• Bracing: Moderate curvatures may require a back brace, or a custom-molded plastic shell holding the spine, with a goal to prevent or limit further curvature of the spine.
• Casting: Casting is a treatment option for toddlers and younger children with moderate to severe early onset scoliosis. Made up of waterproof casting materials or plaster, casts are worn 24/7 to help keep the spine in place.
• Surgery: For more severe scoliosis cases, a physician may recommend surgical treatment to help the spine. The three types of surgery include:
  • Spinal fusion surgery: A common surgery where the surgeon straightens the spine with implants and fuses the spine together.
  • Growing rod surgery: Rods are surgically placed in the child's spine and are regularly lengthened with or without surgery to support spine and lungs as the child develops.
  • Non-fusion surgery: This surgery places implants in the spine to straighten and support spinal alignment as the child grows. Future growth may encourage additional spine straightening.

How can I support my child with scoliosis?

To support your child with scoliosis, always encourage open communication and recognize their resilience and strength to raise their morale. You might also consider joining a support group to seek advice, relay real-life experiences and connect with others facing a similar challenge.

To find additional resources on how to support your child, visit SRS.org or curvygirlsscoliosis.com.

Learn more information

If you suspect your child has scoliosis, call 317.948.2550 to schedule an appointment with Riley Children's Orthopedics. A physician referral is not required. To learn more about Riley Children's pediatric spine care, read this Q&A with one of our pediatric spine surgeons. To learn more about our work treating patients with scoliosis, read this patient story.