Scoliosis and x-rays go hand and hand but parents, and even some kids, have concerns about x-ray frequency to monitor spinal changes during growth. We understand the concerns about scoliosis and x-rays and figured it is about time to address them. X-ray evaluation is a necessary part of monitoring scoliosis. X-rays allow physicians to measure Cobb… Read More
At Scoliosis 3DC when evaluating scoliosis, chest expansion is one measure we use to create a baseline in order to track and monitor progress. This is because respiratory deficits associated with thoracic scoliosis can occur as a secondary response to decreased rib mobility. A maligned thorax in three planes -sagittal, frontal (coronal) and transverse (rotational)… Read More
Spirometry measures breathing or the volume of inspiration/expiration in ML. Results of a spirometry measurement are referred to as vital capacity (VC). Vital capacity is an indicator of lung function and lower than expected values of VC may occur when a thoracic scoliosis is present. Patients measuring Cobb >100º, VC may be reduced to <… Read More
A scoliometer is an instrument that measures trunk asymmetry in scoliosis, or angle of trunk rotation (ATR). It is a small, non-invasive device (essentially a mini-level) that is placed over the spine while a person is in a forward bending position. The scoliometer reading indicates degree of trunk asymmetry (rotation). Research shows that most people… Read More
Cobb angle is the “universal standard” of measurement used to quantify a scoliosis for the purpose of measuring curve progression over time. Evaluating scoliosis via Cobb angle is important since it is often the first objective indicator. A curve is considered to be scoliosis at a Cobb angle of 10º or more. Any increase greater… Read More
March 13, 2010
Updated March 15, 2019: A pleasant young adolescent, accompanied by her parents, came to Boston to see me for Schroth treatment. As we began the evaluation, her father, an MD, looked at me and said, “I read the book, and I’m not sure if her curve classification is a three curve or a four curve.”… Read More
