Scoliosis is most commonly diagnosed in children between the ages of 10 and 15 during rapid growth spurts. While mild curves may only require monitoring, early intervention is critical because spinal curves are most likely to progress while a child is still growing. If you notice uneven shoulders, a protruding shoulder blade, or a tilted waistline, a specialist evaluation can determine if bracing or specialized therapy is needed to prevent future surgery.
What are the early signs of scoliosis in teenagers?
Many parents in Santa Monica and Marina Del Rey first notice scoliosis during routine sports physicals or when noticing that a child’s clothing seems to hang unevenly. Key signs to look for include:
- One shoulder appearing higher than the other.
- A shoulder blade that sticks out more prominently than the other.
- An uneven waistline or one hip sitting higher than the other.
- The appearance of a “rib hump” when the child bends forward at the waist.
Is it ever “too late” to treat scoliosis?
It is never too late to manage scoliosis, but the goals of treatment change based on skeletal maturity. For adolescents, the goal is often prevention—using advanced bracing to stop the curve from reaching the 40–50 degree threshold where surgery is typically discussed. For adults, treatment focuses on quality of life, managing chronic pain, and maintaining spinal stability.
Expert Orthopedic Care with Dr. Sanjay Khurana
Dr. Sanjay Khurana is a board-certified spine surgeon with fellowship training in spinal reconstruction. After beginning his medical career at Stanford University and UC Berkeley, he has established himself as a leading specialist in Southern California. His goal is to provide the highest quality care to improve each individual’s quality of life.
Visit Our Offices:
- Santa Monica: 2901 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 300, Santa Monica, CA 90403
- Marina Del Rey: 13160 Mindanao Way, #300, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
