Word parts
What it means
The spine curves to the side in an S or C shape, often with some twisting. Most cases have no known cause and appear in children near puberty, during the growth spurt, more often in girls. It may cause uneven shoulders, waist or hips, or a hump on one side of the back when bending forward. Mild curves are watched; larger ones may need a back brace while the child is growing, or surgery (spinal fusion).
For the nurse
In a screening, the child bends forward at the waist with arms hanging; look from behind for one side of the back being higher. Teach that a brace works only if worn for the prescribed hours each day, and support body image.
At a glance
| Spanish | escoliosis |
|---|---|
| Also written | scoliotic |
Related terms
-osis
A word ending that means an abnormal condition or process, or an increase.
adolescence
The stage of life between childhood and adulthood, starting with puberty, roughly ages 12 to 18.
thoracic
Relating to the chest, or to the middle part of the spine.