A school nurse is performing scoliosis screenings.
The nurse should recognize which of the following clinical manifestations as an indication of scoliosis?
A.
Uneven shoulder and pelvic heights.
B.
Exaggerated curvature of the sacrum.
C.
Limited range-of-motion of the hips.
D.
Mild pain in the hip region.
The Correct answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is A. Uneven shoulder and pelvic heights.
Explanation:
Scoliosis is a lateral curvature of the spine that can occur during the growth spurt before puberty, particularly in children aged 10 to 15. It is more common in females than males. Early detection is essential as it can prevent the progression of the curvature and associated complications, including pain, respiratory issues, and reduced quality of life.
When performing scoliosis screenings, school nurses assess the symmetry of the body. The most characteristic clinical manifestation of scoliosis is the presence of uneven shoulder and pelvic heights. This asymmetry occurs because the spine’s abnormal lateral curvature causes one shoulder or hip to be higher than the other. Additionally, the curvature may cause the ribs on one side to protrude more prominently when the child bends forward, creating what is known as a “rib hump.”
Let’s analyze the other options:
- B. Exaggerated curvature of the sacrum: This description might relate to conditions such as lordosis, which is an excessive inward curvature of the lumbar spine, rather than scoliosis. Scoliosis specifically involves a sideways curvature of the thoracic or lumbar spine.
- C. Limited range-of-motion of the hips: While limited range-of-motion can occur in various musculoskeletal conditions, it is not a hallmark feature of scoliosis. Scoliosis primarily affects the alignment of the spine rather than directly impacting hip mobility.
- D. Mild pain in the hip region: Mild hip pain can be associated with various orthopedic conditions, but it is not a specific indicator of scoliosis. Scoliosis may cause back pain in more severe cases, but pain is not typically the first sign detected during a screening.
In summary, the most recognizable sign of scoliosis during a school screening is the asymmetry of shoulder and pelvic heights. Early identification through such screenings is crucial for initiating interventions, such as bracing or physical therapy, to prevent further curvature and potential complications.