Focus : Types and Signs Of Scoliosis

There are four natural curves in the spinal column. The cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacral curvature. The curves, along with the intervertebral disks, help to absorb and distribute stresses that occur from everyday activities such as walking or from more intense activities such as running and jumping.

There is more than one type of curvature that can occur in people with Scoliosis, more often than not we think of a curved spine when we hear someone has Scoliosis.

If you are diagnosed with scoliosis, your doctor will use x-rays to determine how great the curve in your spine is, and to determine what type of curve you have, you may also be given the Adam's Forward Bend Test which is another way of your Dr determining Scoliosis.

If the normal rounding of your back is too great, then you have a condition known as kyphosis.

The term kyphosis means that there is a “hyper” or excessive forward curvature in your thoracic spine. Your thoracic spine is the part of your spine that is located in your chest and connects to your ribs. The normal degrees range from 30 to 40 average. In scoliosis, the spine column is also different in the basic mechanics.

If the curve in your lower back is too great, then you have a condition known as lordosis and many people who had surgery in the early 80's and 90's have a condition called Flatback syndrome which is a loss of lumbar lordosis - generally caused from having the Harrington rod.

The term lordosis means that there is a “hyper” or excessive posterior (backward) curvature in your lumbar spine. Your lumbar spine is the part of your spine that is located in your lower back. The normal degree of curve ranges from 50 to 60 degrees with an average of 55 degrees. Problems in this area result in lower back pain and or leg pain.

Understanding the different types of curvatures can help you and your doctor decide how to best treat your scoliosis.

The Four Common Types of Curves in Scoliosis:Thoracic - 90 percent of the curves occur on the right sideLumbar - 70 percent of the curves occur on the left sideThoracolumbar - 80 percent of the curves occur on the right sideDouble major - curves that occur on the right and left side


Scoliosis may be suspected when one shoulder appears to be higher than the other, there is a curvature in the spine, or the pelvis appears to be tilted. The treatment of scoliosis can involve the use of a brace or surgery. Treatment is determined by the cause of the scoliosis, the size and location of the curve, and the stage of bone growth of the patient.ADAM