Condition
Pediatric Scoliosis
Key points about scoliosis in children
- Scoliosis is a deformity of the backbone (spine). It’s when the spine has a side-to-side curve.
- A child with scoliosis has a spine with an S or C shape. The child may look like he or she is leaning to one side.
- Scoliosis can cause a difference in shoulder or hip height.
- X-rays can measure the curve of a child’s spine.
- Depending on how bad the scoliosis is, your child may need a brace or surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Prevention and Risk Assessment
What is scoliosis in children?
What causes scoliosis in a child?
Diagnosis
What are the symptoms of scoliosis in a child?
How is scoliosis diagnosed in a child?
Treatment
How is scoliosis treated in a child?
![Orthopaedic surgeon and male patient walking in hallway](https://edge.sitecorecloud.io/cnh-e6162ccc/media/cnhs-site/images/brand-images/spine-program.jpg?h=533&iar=0&w=800)
Scoliosis Treatment at Children's National Hospital
The Scoliosis Traction Program at Children's National Hospital offers advanced treatments to improve spinal deformity over time. Discover more about the treatment we offer.
![Orthopaedic surgeon and male patient walking in hallway](https://edge.sitecorecloud.io/cnh-e6162ccc/media/cnhs-site/images/brand-images/spine-program.jpg?h=533&iar=0&w=800)
Meet the Providers Who Treat Scoliosis
Departments that Treat Scoliosis
![Orthopaedic surgeon and male patient walking in hallway](/-/media/cnhs-site/images/brand-images/spine-program.jpg)
Spinal Fusion Surgical Home
Children's National is home to the nation's first pediatric spinal fusion surgical home, helping us to deliver safe, effective and family-centered care.
![Orthopaedic surgeon and male patient walking in hallway](/-/media/cnhs-site/images/brand-images/spine-program.jpg)
Spine Program
Children's National offers children with spinal deformities a range of treatments, including innovative casting techniques, and hope for a bright future.
![Children’s National orthopaedic surgeon Sean Tabaie, M.D., cares for pediatric patient in cast.](/-/media/cnhs-site/images/departments/orthopaedic-surgery/ortho.jpg)
Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine
From sprains and strains to complex congenital conditions, Children's National Hospital offers one of the most experienced pediatric orthopaedic practices in the nation, with experience in treating all areas from head to toe.