Virginia Law requires that all schools take one of the following options regarding scoliosis:

•  Provide information on scoliosis to parents/guardians of student in grades 5 through 10.
• Implement a scoliosis screening program for students in grades 5 through 10.
• Implement a scoliosis screening program for students in selected grades 5 through 10 and provide information on scoliosis to parents/guardians of student in those grades not being screened.

Bristol Virginia Public Schools has selected the first option that is highlighted above.  Please review the important information below.

What is scoliosis?

Scoliosis is defined as a sideways curve of the spine.  Instead of a straight line down the middle of the back, a spine with scoliosis sometimes looks like a "S" or a "C".

Is there a cause of scoliosis?

Scoliosis is often known as idiopathic.  Which means the exact cause of the curve is unknown.  It is often detected during the preadolescent and adolescent growth spurt.  Scoliosis can be due to a congenital, bone abnormality at birth.  Other causes of scoliosis are degenerative and neuromuscular scoliosis.  Degenerative may be due to an illness or injury. Neuromuscular results from abnormalities in the muscles or nerves.

Why Screen for Scoliosis?

How is scoliosis identified?

Physicians use family history, physical exams and x-rays when checking for scoliosis. A simple test called the “Adam’s Forward Bend test is often used when screening for scoliosis.  With this test, the child is asked to bend over at the waist as if they are going to touch their toes.  The examiner then views for asymmetry of the back and shoulders.

A Checklist to help detect scoliosis

• • Does your child have one should higher than the other?
  • Does your child have one hip that looks higher than the other?
  • Does your child’s head look off centered over the body?
  • Does one shoulder blade stick out more than the other?
  • Is there a greater distance between arm and body on one side, than the other when the arms hang loose at the sides?
  • Does your child have round shoulders or a humpback?
  • Does your child lean to one side more than the other?

If you answered yes to any of the questions above, it is advised that you consult with your physician or health care provider.

Potential Treatment of Scoliosis

Where Can You Get More Information?

• National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS)
• National Scoliosis Foundation, 800-673-6922