Scoliosis information

Bedford County Public School Scoliosis Information Sheet

 The Code of Virginia requires that the school division provide information to parents regarding scoliosis. After reading this information if you have any questions please feel free to contact your school nurse or local physician.

 What is scoliosis?

  • Our spines are normally straight, scoliosis occurs when an abnormal curve of the spine or backbone appears. The spine looks crooked and will curve to the side. The Scoliosis Research Society defines scoliosis as a curvature of the spine measuring 10 degrees or greater on x-ray.
  •  Some signs of scoliosis are a shoulder blade that sticks out more than the other, uneven hips or shoulder levels, clothes that do not fit or “hang right” on the child.
  • Scoliosis seems to run in families and is more common in girls than in boys. So if your child has scoliosis it is suggested that the other members of the family be checked too.

How is scoliosis treated?

 Depending on the degree of curve-identified treatment can vary from none, to six-month rechecks, bracing or surgery. During rapid periods of adolescent growth, changes can occur quickly and identifying any concern with the spine is important.