Most commonly the doctor will carry out a physical examination of the spine, ribs, hips and shoulders. In most cases the initial diagnosis is made by a GP (general practitioner) or school nurse, who will then refer the patient to an orthopedic specialist (skeletal system and associated muscles, joints, and ligaments specialist doctor).
Imaging scans - the specialist will order an X-ray to confirm the diagnosis of scoliosis, as well as determining the shape, direction, location and angle of the curve.
If there are further symptoms, such as back pain, or if symptoms are severe an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) or CT (computed tomography) scan may be ordered.
Bone scan - radioactive material is injected into the bloodstream. This material travels to the parts of the bones that are affected, and show up on a special instrument called a scanner.