[Idiopathic scoliosis and the stooping position test]

Idiopathic scoliosis, or scoliosis with no recognizable cause, is the most common form of scoliosis. According to Burrows and Young (1991), the stooped position test (where the child is asked to bend forward) has been used by nurses to test school age children since 1947 and is still the most widely used test for early identification of this condition. To provide an accurate reading of this test, nurses need extensive knowledge of the characteristics of this deformity. They must also be able to note with precision the objective, subjective and evolving signs of idiopathic scoliosis. Statistical information relating to the intrinsic and predictive validity of the test are also important for early detection and referral to a physician. This article describes the symptoms of idiopathic scoliosis, the testing methodology and its validity. The authors also suggest using a scoliometer as a supplementary tool because it measures the degree of spinal deformity and specifies the degree of rotation of the spinal cord.