A conversation and exam
We ask about health and family history, check posture, and have your child bend forward so we can see the shape of the back.
Scoliosis in children and teens
Most children with scoliosis lead full, active lives. How we treat a curve depends on your child's age, how much growing they have left, and whether the curve is changing.
Signs parents may notice
Scoliosis in children is usually painless, so it is often spotted by a parent, a pediatrician or a school screening. If something looks uneven, it is worth having a spine specialist take a look.
The most common type in teens, adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, has no single known cause. It is not caused by posture, sports or heavy backpacks.
See all types of scoliosis- Uneven shoulders
- One shoulder blade sticking out more than the other
- A rib hump on one side when your child bends forward
- Uneven waist, or one hip sitting higher
- The body or head leaning to one side
- Clothes or a backpack that hang unevenly
How we evaluate your child
Standing X-rays
X-rays taken while standing let us measure the curve in degrees and check the balance of the whole spine.
Checking remaining growth
Curves can grow as the spine grows, so knowing how much growth is left helps us plan the right timing.
More imaging, if needed
Some children need an MRI or CT scan for a closer look at the spine or to check for an underlying condition.
Treatment options
Not every child with scoliosis needs surgery. The goal is to keep the curve from getting worse while your child stays as active and healthy as possible.
Often for smaller or stable curves
Observation
Regular checkups, with X-rays when needed, to watch for any change while your child grows. Physical therapy or scoliosis-specific exercises may be added when helpful.
Often for moderate, growing curves
Bracing
A custom brace worn during the growing years can help stop certain curves from getting bigger. It works best when worn as prescribed.
For larger or progressing curves
Surgery
Considered when a curve is large, keeps growing despite treatment, is expected to keep worsening, or affects balance or function.
Curves are measured in degrees on X-ray. As a general guide, smaller curves are watched, moderate curves in growing children may be braced, and larger curves (often around 45 to 50 degrees or more) may be considered for surgery. Your child’s surgeon will explain what applies to them.
If surgery is needed
The most common operation for teens is a posterior spinal fusion. The surgeon looks at the size and flexibility of the curve, your child’s remaining growth, spinal balance and overall health before recommending it.
The goal is not a perfectly straight spine. It is a safe, balanced correction that stops the curve from getting worse.
Read about surgical optionsA carefully placed incision along the back gives the surgeon access to the spine.
Rods and screws gently straighten the spine and hold it in its new position.
Bone graft helps the treated bones heal together into one solid, stable section.
Nerve monitoring watches the spinal cord and nerves throughout the operation.
Recovery: what to expect
In the hospital
Surgery takes place in a hospital with doctors and nurses who specialize in caring for children. Most kids stay 3 to 7 days, depending on how they feel.
The first weeks home
Pain and stiffness are normal at first, and most children feel better each week. Gentle walking helps; heavy lifting and rough play wait until cleared. A brace may be used for support.
The months ahead
Physical therapy helps rebuild strength, flexibility and confidence. Full recovery usually takes several months, with activities added back gradually and safely.
Tips for parents and kids
- Follow the care team’s instructions, and ask when something is unclear.
- Encourage gentle activity like walking; save heavy lifting and rough play until cleared.
- Write down questions before each visit so nothing gets missed.
- Celebrate small milestones. Every step forward is progress.
Questions about a curve, yours or your child’s?
Our specialists can review your X-rays, explain what they show and walk you through every option, including when no treatment is needed yet.