Patient Information
What to expect at your first visit
Your Scoliosis Specialist Dr Robert Labrom can detect scoliosis by performing a physical examination of your back.
- Firstly, you will be asked to stand in a relaxed position with your arms at your sides and the doctor will view you from behind looking for curvature of the spine, shoulder blade asymmetry, waistline asymmetry and any trunk shift. Perhaps consider wearing some gym shorts and appropriate singlet top for your modesty.
- You will also bend forward at the waist to allow the doctor to observe the rotation of the the spine; scoliosis can create a rib prominence in the upper back and/or a flank or waist prominence in the lower back.
- If scoliosis is suspected following this simple examination, the doctor will usually order X-rays or EOS scan of the entire spine from the neck to the pelvis (back and side views).
- If scoliosis is present, the doctor will measure the spine’s curves and provide you with a number, in degrees, to help describe the scoliosis.
- Once the presence of scoliosis is confirmed, your doctor will discuss treatment options with you or refer you to a specialist. Treatment options may include:
- Routine monitoring of the curvature (and in most cases, physical therapy) as long as it remains minimal;
- Wearing a brace to try to stop the curve(s) from progressing;
- Surgery for patients with major curves causing discomfort or other health problems.