Manual

The most common adolescent screening method has been to manually assess the curvature of the spine while the patient bends over to touch toes. This method can miss up to 30% of cases.

MRI

Similar to X-rays but without the radiation, MRIs provide detailed images but require even more expensive equipment.

X-rays

This method provides a very clear view of the spine and provides the physician detailed information to both identify and monitor the disease. There are numerous downsides to this method, however:

• It only provides information in two dimensions and can miss spinal twists and rotations
• Repeated radiation is a substantial risk factor for other diseases, including cancer
• High price