School and Childhood Scoliosis

Scoliosis occurs when the spine curves abnormally to one side. Usually mild, scoliosis does not affect a child's ability to function at school. Some children, though, have a severe spine curvature, which makes some activities difficult and may cause frequent pain.

Identification

• According to Kid's Health, about half of the states in the U.S. require public schools to screen students for scoliosis. Screening, though, may not identify all cases of scoliosis. Caregivers should consult a pediatrician if they notice scoliosis symptoms of if their child complains of back pain or breathing difficulty.

Features

• Scoliosis occurs when the spine curves abnormally to the side. It may result in back pain. In the most severe cases, the spine curvature can impair lung function. Scoliosis may be characterized by uneven shoulders and hips, and sometimes one leg may be shorter than the other.

Significance

• Scoliosis affects three out of every one hundred people. In some cases the condition may be mild and require little treatment. In other cases the condition may be severe and require back braces and even surgical correction. According to Kid's Health, scoliosis more commonly affects females than males.

Classroom Accommodations

• Students with scoliosis may require classroom accommodations, depending on the severity of their condition. Possible accommodations include adjustable tables, wheelchair accommodations, and dismissal from certain activities such as P.E. Also, schools may provide occupational and physical therapy services.

Home-Bound Services

• Children with severe scoliosis or those recovering from scoliosis surgery may need their local school system to provide home-bound services either temporarily or long-term. Caregivers should consult with the school district's main office to arrange for home services.