Scoliosis

Alternative names:

kyphoscoliosis

Symptoms:

• the spine curving abnormally to the side (laterally)
• shoulders and hips appearing uneven
• a compensatory curve
• backache or low back pain
• fatigue
• shortness of breath
• muscle weakness (decreased muscle strength, independent of exercise) in the back

Note: Kyphoscoliosis also involves abnormal front-to-back curvature, with a "rounded back" appearance. See kyphosis.

Signs and tests:

In a physical examination, the curvature is usually more pronounced when bending forward.

Tests may include

• spine X-rays taken in several positions
• scoliosometer measurements (a device for measuring the curvature of the spine)