Scoliosis is a condition that causes an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine, most commonly developing during childhood or adolescence. Early detection is key—when scoliosis is caught early, treatment can be more effective, and long-term complications can often be prevented.

But how can you tell if your child has scoliosis? Some signs can be surprisingly subtle, especially in the early stages. That’s why it’s so important for parents and caregivers to know what to look out for.

In this article, we’ll walk you through five of the most common signs parents should look for, and when it might be time to seek professional advice.

Not all spinal curves are scoliosis, but if you’re concerned about a possible curve in your child’s spine, it’s important to understand the signs and seek assessment early.

Sometimes the curvature of the spine is visible, particularly when a child bends forward. This movement helps reveal asymmetries that may not be noticeable when standing straight. Health professionals commonly use a simple screening method called the Adam’s Forward Bend Test to assess for scoliosis.

During this test, if your child bends forward at the waist and one side of their back appears higher than the other—often described as a “rib hump”—this could be a sign of scoliosis. It’s an important indicator that warrants further evaluation by a healthcare provider.

Another tell-tale sign to know how to tell if your child has scoliosis can be found in their clothing. Clothes that suddenly hang unevenly—like one pant leg appearing longer or a shirt twisting to one side—may indicate a spinal imbalance.

While it’s easy to attribute this to a growth spurt, consistent asymmetry in how clothes fit is something worth paying attention to. If you notice these patterns over time, it’s a good idea to have your child’s posture and spine checked by a professional.

f you’re noticing any of these signs and wondering how to tell if your child has scoliosis, it’s important to consult a qualified health professional as soon as possible. Early evaluation is crucial because detecting scoliosis in its initial stages can significantly improve the chances of effective management or treatment. A chiropractor is specially trained to perform a thorough postural assessment, carefully examining your child’s spine, shoulders, hips, and overall alignment. When necessary, they can recommend further diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays, to gain a clearer understanding of the spinal curvature and determine its severity.

Our experienced team is skilled at identifying subtle spinal imbalances early—often before they develop into more serious issues. We focus on supporting the body’s natural healing processes, improving posture, and reducing discomfort. Through compassionate care and ongoing monitoring, we are committed to helping children maintain healthy spinal development and enjoy improved overall wellbeing.