Of every 1,000 children, three to five develop spinal curves that are considered large enough to need treatment.  Scoliosis can be detected by uneven shoulder height, loss of structural balance, a change in posture or unequal leg length.  Here is a quick test you can perform on children of any age.

 

#1- Have the child lie face down on a bed with their feet hanging off the edge.  The legs should be kept together with their arms resting at their side.

 

#2- During the test, their head must be facing straight down.  Check to see if one leg appears shorter.

 

#3- Test further by bending their legs up at the knees and compare again.  A short or contracted leg is a common condition that can lead to scoliosis related problems.