If a school screening or your healthcare provider finds signs of scoliosis, you’ll visit an orthopedist for an evaluation. An orthopedist is a healthcare provider who treats bones and muscles. This visit helps figure out what treatment may be best for you.
During your evaluation
Your orthopedist may:
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Ask you about your health history, such as if you’ve ever had surgery
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Ask about your family health history, such as if someone in your family has scoliosis
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Take X-rays of your back to get a closer look at your spine
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Estimate how much more you are likely to grow. You may be asked if you've gotten your period yet.
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Examine your back while you’re standing up and bending over
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Measure the size, location, and pattern of the spinal curve
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Test how flexible your spine is, and how strong your back and neck muscles are
Why treat scoliosis?
A serious spinal curve that isn’t treated can get worse as you grow. Over time, it may cause problems. These can include:
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Back pain
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Arthritis in your back
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Your body looking twisted
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Clothes not fitting right
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Heart and breathing problems (rare)
Online Medical Reviewer: Raymond Turley Jr PA-C
Online Medical Reviewer: Stacey Wojcik MBA BSN RN
Online Medical Reviewer: Thomas N Joseph MD
Date Last Reviewed: 04/01/2024
© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
