School Screening Programme for the Early Detection of Scoliosis

As a Biokineticist and Orthotist in the medical field we are finding an increased incidence of spine and postural abnormalities amongst adolescents. We are members of the SOSORT (Society On Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment) organisation, which actively supports school screening of all learners for the early detection of scoliosis and other spinal deformities. With your co-operation we would like to initiate scoliosis screening at schools in the Western Cape aimed at early detection and conservative management.

Scoliosis is a lateral curvature of more than 10 degrees in the normally straight vertical line of the spine. It is a common condition of the spine affecting both children and adults.

Idiopathic (unknown cause) scoliosis is the most common type of scoliosis, typically affecting adolescents from ages 10 through to 17. Idiopathic scoliosis may progress during the “growth spurt” years, therefore treatment should be sought as early as possible.

Scoliosis ranges in severity and may go virtually unnoticed in some children, however it can affect a person’s ability to engage in physical activity and cause chronic back and neck pain. Severe cases of scoliosis are known to impact heart and lung function and impair the ability to walk, sit or lie down comfortably.

There are several warning signs that help diagnose scoliosis and the early detection of scoliosis is of utmost importance to prevent the progression of the deformity to the point of surgery. Research has confirmed the efficacy of conservative treatment modalities including scoliosis specific exercises and advanced corrective 3-dimentional brace designs. Scoliosis screening involves a simple and non-invasive test called the Adams forward bending test and the placement of a scoliometer along the length of the spine to detect asymmetries in the trunk.

Should you be interested in initiating this screening programme at your school or would like to know more information about this condition, please contact us at the telephone number or email address below to schedule an introductory meeting. Written consent from the parents must be obtained prior to the screening process and a fee of R50 per learner will be applicable.

Please do not hesitate to contact us at +27(0)21 689 2707 or email admin@peakbiokinetics.co.za should you require any further information. We look forward to your reply.