Genevieve, age 13, is being assessed for scoliosis. How would you assess for scoliosis?

Genevieve, age 13, is being assessed for scoliosis. How would you assess for scoliosis?

• A. Have her bend at the waist to inspect for asymmetry of the scapulae
• B. Ask her to stand sideways to inspect kyphosis
• C. Tell Genevieve to rotate sideways and observe for uneven shoulder height
• D. Observe Genevieve from the back as she climbs stairs

Answer: (A)

Scoliosis screening relies on revealing a rotational deformity of the spine by looking for rib hump and asymmetry when the spine is flexed. Having Genevieve bend at the waist brings any lateral curvature and the associated vertebral rotation into clearer view, making asymmetry of the scapulae or rib cage visible. This forward bend test, known as the Adam forward bend test, is how the scoliosis deformity is most readily detected in a quick clinical screen. Observing from the side to assess kyphosis focuses on the sagittal curve rather than the lateral curvature of scoliosis. Asking Genevieve to rotate or observe for uneven shoulder height doesn’t reliably reveal the rib hump or rotation that scoliosis causes. Watching her climb stairs from behind isn’t a standard method and may miss asymmetries hidden by posture.

Scoliosis screening relies on revealing a rotational deformity of the spine by looking for rib hump and asymmetry when the spine is flexed. Having Genevieve bend at the waist brings any lateral curvature and the associated vertebral rotation into clearer view, making asymmetry of the scapulae or rib cage visible. This forward bend test, known as the Adam forward bend test, is how the scoliosis deformity is most readily detected in a quick clinical screen.

Observing from the side to assess kyphosis focuses on the sagittal curve rather than the lateral curvature of scoliosis. Asking Genevieve to rotate or observe for uneven shoulder height doesn’t reliably reveal the rib hump or rotation that scoliosis causes. Watching her climb stairs from behind isn’t a standard method and may miss asymmetries hidden by posture.