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Glossary

What Is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a condition in which the spine curves sideways and may rotate, creating an uneven appearance in the back or shoulders. The curve can affect posture, movement, and muscle balance. Scoliosis may develop during growth or arise from another condition, so assessment focuses on spinal shape and related physical findings.

Reviewed by Dr. Robbyn Keating, DC

Quick Facts About Scoliosis

Category

Spinal condition

Used for

Describing spinal curvature and related findings

Common confusion

Scoliosis is not simply poor posture

Also called

Curved spine

Often discussed with

Pediatric Chiropractic Care

Key Takeaways About Scoliosis

  • The spinal curve may include rotation.
  • Posture and muscle balance can change with scoliosis.
  • Scoliosis is not the same as poor posture.

How Scoliosis Works

A man in a clinic points to a spine model while speaking with a seated woman

Scoliosis changes the spine's shape through a sideways curve that may also involve rotation. This pattern can alter how the shoulders, hips, or back appear during standing and movement. The curve may remain flexible or become more fixed, depending on its cause and development.

Related glossary terms: Kyphosis, Posture, Alignment.

Healthcare professionals assess spinal alignment by observing posture, movement, and body symmetry. They may also review health history and available clinical records to understand the pattern. In pediatric care, growth and changing movement patterns provide useful context because spinal alignment can change as a child develops.

A hand holds a card reading “SCOLIOSIS” beside a blurred computer screen on a desk

From the Arrowhead Clinic Chiropractor McDonough team

When we evaluate scoliosis in pediatric chiropractic care, we observe posture, spinal motion, and balance during age-appropriate movement. We also ask about relevant history and coordinate care when findings suggest that another healthcare professional should assess the child. Our approach focuses on understanding movement patterns without treating an appearance alone.

Scoliosis in Practice: A Real-World Example

A child may show one shoulder sitting higher than the other during a posture check. Our team may observe spinal movement and muscle balance as part of pediatric chiropractic care.

Related Terms

Kyphosis

Kyphosis is an increased outward curve of the upper spine that can create a rounded back…

Posture

Posture is the way you hold and position your body while sitting, standing, walking, or moving…

Alignment

Alignment is the relative positioning of body structures, especially the vertebrae and joints, as they relate…

Thoracic Spine

Thoracic Spine is the middle section of the spinal column, located between the cervical spine in…

Arrowhead Clinic Chiropractor McDonough

Have Questions About Scoliosis?

Contact Arrowhead Clinic Chiropractor McDonough for practical guidance on Scoliosis and related chiropractor work in McDonough.

(770) 637-6261