Scoliosis — an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine — affects about 3% of children and adolescents. While most cases are mild and require only monitoring, understanding how scoliosis develops, how it's detected, and its impact on growth and height helps parents take appropriate action.
What Is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine that forms an S or C shape when viewed from behind. The vast majority of childhood scoliosis (about 80%) is idiopathic — meaning no known cause. Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, which develops during the pubertal growth spurt, is the most common form. Girls are significantly more likely than boys to have curves that progress and require treatment.
How Scoliosis Affects Height
The spine makes up about 60% of total trunk height. When the spine curves sideways, it also rotates, which compresses vertebrae and reduces the effective vertical length of the spine. Even moderate scoliosis of 20-30 degrees can reduce apparent height by 1-2 cm. More severe curves can cause greater height reduction. Treatment with bracing can prevent curves from progressing during growth, preserving height potential.
School Scoliosis Screening
Most children are screened for scoliosis during middle school physical education classes or doctor check-ups. The Adams forward bend test is the standard screening: children bend forward at the waist, and the examiner looks for uneven shoulder blades or rib humps indicating spinal rotation. A positive screening should be followed up with X-rays to measure the curve degree.
Treatment Options
Curves under 20 degrees are typically monitored with periodic X-rays during growth. Curves of 20-40 degrees during active growth are usually treated with bracing, which is most effective when worn 16-23 hours per day. Curves over 45-50 degrees may require surgery (spinal fusion) to prevent further progression and complications with heart and lung function.
Exercise and Scoliosis
Scoliosis-specific exercise programs (like Schroth therapy) can help reduce curve progression, improve posture and body awareness, and reduce back pain. Swimming is generally recommended for children with scoliosis as it decompresses the spine and builds core strength. Contact sports are not contraindicated for most children with mild to moderate scoliosis.
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