Scoliosis in Adolescents: When Is Monitoring Needed?
Fzt. Kemran Hafız · 30 June 2026 · 2 min read · Last updated:
Scoliosis is a curvature of the spine to the side, seen when looking from the front rather than from the side. In most cases the cause is unknown, and it is most often noticed between the ages of 10 and 15, during rapid growth.
Signs you can notice at home
- One shoulder sitting higher than the other
- One shoulder blade appearing more prominent
- Asymmetric waist creases
- Clothes hanging unevenly to one side
- One side of the back appearing raised when bending forward
The last of these is known as the forward bend test and can be done at home: with feet together and knees straight, the child bends forward; looking at the back from behind, if one side is clearly higher an assessment is needed.
Why does the growth period matter?
The risk of a curve progressing is directly linked to how much growth remains. A curve detected during a growth spurt needs closer monitoring; after growth is complete the rate of progression falls markedly.
This is why noticing it early changes the path that is followed.
How is it monitored?
The decision depends on the degree of curve and remaining growth:
- Low-degree curves: monitoring at regular intervals plus a curve-specific exercise programme
- Moderate curves: bracing combined with exercise, decided by the doctor
- Severe curves: surgical assessment
These decisions belong to the orthopaedic doctor; physiotherapy runs alongside that follow-up.
The role of exercise
Scoliosis-specific exercise approaches differ from general sport or swimming: they are planned according to the direction of the curve and include three-dimensional correction and breathing work. The aim is as much to improve trunk control and postural awareness as to correct the spine.
Does a school bag cause scoliosis?
No. A heavy bag can cause back pain but is not a cause of structural scoliosis. The same applies to sitting habits.
When should you seek an assessment?
If you have noticed any of the signs above, or a school screening has raised a concern, you can book a postural and spinal assessment with Fzt. Kemran Hafız. Where necessary, a referral to a doctor is made.
Read on: The role of physiotherapy during follow-up and how assessment is done are on the scoliosis page.