Most people with scoliosis have no symptom.

Scoliosis may not be obvious to naked eyes but some common signs can be noticed by parents. They include:

Body

• The back has ‘S’-shaped curve when standing
• Body curves to one side when viewed from the front or back
• A prominence on one side of the back when the child bends forward
• One side of the rib cage more sticking out

Shoulder

• Shoulder blade is more prominent on one side
• One shoulder seems higher than the other

Waist/Hip

• Uneven waist between left and right side
• One hip higher than the other
• Tilting of pelvis

It is usually discovered by the parents/caregivers or via routine medical checkup. School screening of scoliosis is also performed by the Student Health Service by Department of Health, through the use of forward bending test, the scoliometer measurement of angle of trunk rotation and Moiré topography.

For some mild to moderate curves, Student Health Service or private medical doctor will make referrals to orthopaedic specialist, who will diagnose through physical examination and a spine radiograph and provide any treatment required.