Scoliosis

When the spine is viewed from the side, it should naturally display three gentle curves. However, when viewed from behind, a healthy spine should appear straight. Scoliosis is a condition where the spine develops an abnormal sideways curvature, which can worsen over time if left unaddressed.

Scoliosis can affect both children and adults, but it’s often more concerning in children due to the rapid changes that occur during growth spurts.

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The most common type—Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS)—typically appears between the ages of 11 and 15. Up to 5% of all children aged 10 to 18 will develop this type of scoliosis, and it is significantly more common in girls—90% of AIS cases occur in females. AIS often begins around the onset of puberty and can progress rapidly during periods of accelerated growth.

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While the exact cause of AIS remains unknown, research suggests that genetic factors may influence spinal development and contribute to the condition. Recognising early signs is vital.

These may include uneven shoulders, hips, or waistline—often visually noticeable, such as one shoulder blade sticking out more than the other. These visual cues, as shown in the accompanying image, are essential for early identification and intervention.

At Family Life Chiropractic in Newcastle, we provide professional care tailored to individuals with scoliosis. Our scoliosis chiropractor is trained to assess spinal alignment, monitor progression, and offer gentle, effective care strategies to manage symptoms and support spinal health. With early detection and the right guidance, we aim to improve outcomes and help our patients maintain a healthy, active lifestyle.

At Family Life Chiropractic, we take a thorough, personalised, and caring approach to scoliosis care. If you suspect your child may have scoliosis, we understand how stressful and overwhelming that possibility can feel. A scoliosis diagnosis often brings many questions and uncertainties—and that’s where we’re here to help.

We’re well-placed to support families during this time, offering expert guidance in a warm and understanding environment. Our experienced team will take the time to listen to your concerns, observe any changes you’ve noticed, and carry out a detailed assessment, including a comprehensive medical history and spinal examination. Where necessary, imaging may be recommended to give us a clearer view of the spine and the degree of curvature.

In the absence of school screening programs for scoliosis, it’s important for parents to keep a close eye on their child’s spinal development.

Keep in mind that scoliosis often progresses rapidly at the onset of puberty, a time when children can grow quickly and spinal changes may occur unnoticed. During the colder winter months, it’s even easier for signs to go undetected, as bulky clothing can mask subtle postural shifts.

Even if scoliosis is not present, having a professional check can bring great peace of mind. Early detection is key, particularly in children, where spinal curves can change quickly during growth phases. If scoliosis is diagnosed, we will walk beside you every step of the way—explaining what it means, outlining treatment options, and helping you navigate your child’s care with clarity and confidence.

Whether you’re seeking reassurance or looking for expert support, we’re here to provide compassionate care, answer your questions, and ensure you feel informed, supported, and empowered throughout the journey.

For a simple and convenient way to check for scoliosis at home, try ScoliScreen, a free web-based screening tool developed in partnership with Macquarie University (Australia). Backed by independent research, ScoliScreen allows you to regularly assess your growing child or loved ones in the privacy of your own home, ensuring early signs of scoliosis don’t go unnoticed.