Study of the Natural History of the Back Trunk Shape by the use of Scoliometer in Children Aged 5-12 Years

The amount of asymmetry of the back trunk shape, that is the existence of a hump, in the general adolescent population during School-screening for scoliosis constitutes one of the strongest indicators for further referral. The aim of this study is to map the trunk asymmetry in normal Mediterranean children 5-12 years of age and to determine its natural history. Material and Mediod: The readings of scoliometer in 900 children aged 5-12 years (512 boys and 388 girls) were studied. The children were examined at school, during our School-screening program. The bending test was performed bodi in standing and sitting forward bending positions using die Pruijs scoliometer, in order to quantify, die existing asymmetry, at three areas of interest: in thoracic, thoracolumbar and lumbar area. The severity of asymmetry was defined in two groups: in the 1stgroup the scoliometer reading was 1°- 6°, right or left, and in the 2nd7° respectively. Seven age groups of children were defined: years <7; 7≤years<8; 8≤years<9; 9≤years<10; 10≤years<11, 11≤years<12, years≥12.