Scoliosis screening and treatment

Scoliosis-a spinal curve of 5° or more, with a rotational deformity-may be present in up to 4% of patients aged 12-14. However, only about 0.3% require treatment, for progressive curves of 20° or more. About 70% of all scoliosis in North America is idiopathic. Non-idiopathic varieties include congenital and neuromuscular scoliosis, mesenchymal disorders, non-structural scoliosis, juvenile kyphosis and Scheuermann's disease. A clinical evaluation for early detection of scoliosis need take only a few seconds during an office visit. Treatment can include periodic check-ups and X-rays, exercises, braces, electrical stimulation and surgery. Scoliosis associated with other conditions can be discovered in patients of any age, and recognition early is important for proper treatment.