Preparing for an appointment

Your child's doctor may check for scoliosis at a routine well-child visit. Many schools also have screening programs for scoliosis. Physical examinations prior to sports participation often detect scoliosis. If you are informed that your child might have scoliosis, see your doctor to confirm the condition.

What you can do

Before the appointment, write a list that includes:

• Detailed descriptions of your child's signs and symptoms, if any are present
• Information about medical problems your child has had in the past
• Information about the medical problems that tend to run in your family
• Questions you want to ask the doctor

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor may ask some of the following questions:

• When did you first notice the problem in your child?
• Is it causing your child any pain?
• Is your child experiencing any breathing difficulties?
• Has anyone in the family been treated for scoliosis?
• Has your child grown rapidly during the past six months?
• Has your child started menstruating? For how long?