Early Detection of Scoliosis – Let’s Stop the Surgery

Most scoliosis doesn’t start with pain. It starts with small signs that are easy to miss—one shoulder a little higher, a shirt that twists, a shoulder blade that sticks out, or a “rib hump” when a child bends forward. The problem is that if a curve is going to worsen, it often speeds up during the growth spurt. That’s why early detection matters: it gives families more options and helps prevent the “we didn’t know until it was big” moment.

What this episode is about

In this episode, we talk about why scoliosis screening is still worth doing, even though many schools no longer screen routinely. You’ll learn what screening can catch, what parents can look for at home, and why “watch and wait” is a common recommendation—even when it feels like you should be doing something immediately.

What you’ll learn

You’ll understand:

• What a scoliosis screening is (and what it is not)
• Why scoliosis can worsen quickly around the growth spurt
• Why many schools stopped doing scoliosis screening
• Why a trained posture/spine provider can catch subtle early signs
• What “watch and wait” usually means in real life (and what it should not mean)
• When bracing is commonly discussed for growing kids (often in the moderate curve range)
• Why early-stage care options (exercises, mobility, strength, posture) are more useful when you catch it earlier

Quick checklist: signs parents can watch for

This is not for diagnosing—just for knowing when to get checked:

• Uneven shoulders
• One shoulder blade “poking out”
• Uneven hips
• Rib hump / back bump when bending forward
• Clothes that fit crooked or twist (shirt seams, pant legs)

The big question: why do some orthopedists say “watch and wait”?

Most orthopedic decision-making is driven by a few measurable factors: the size of the curve (Cobb angle), how much growth a child has left, and whether the curve is progressing. For smaller curves—especially if they’re not changing quickly—observation is common. Bracing is more commonly recommended when a child is still growing and curves are in the moderate range (often around 25–40 degrees).

What parents should hear is this: “watch and wait” should mean measure and track, not “ignore and hope.” Bigger curves at the end of growth are more likely to keep progressing later, which is one reason early tracking matters.

Who this episode is for

• Parents of kids in growth years (especially approaching puberty)
• Families who missed school screening or never had it offered
• Parents who are seeing subtle posture changes but aren’t sure what they mean
• Anyone who wants to be proactive and avoid late-stage surprises

Next step (if you want help)

If you’re in Lafayette or the surrounding Acadiana area and you want a scoliosis screening (or a second opinion on what you’re seeing), we can help you get clear measurements and a plan. The original blog article can be read here.

Scoliosis Center of Louisiana Dr. Justin Trosclair, DC Call/Text: 337-453-5199