What it means
Seen from behind, the spine is normally fairly straight. In scoliosis it bends to one side, often with some twist in the vertebrae. Reports may say dextroscoliosis (the curve bulges to the right) or levoscoliosis (to the left). The Cobb angle is measured between the most tilted vertebrae at each end of the curve. In teenagers the cause is usually unknown. In older adults, disc and joint wear can cause it.
When it matters
Small curves are common and often need nothing beyond a note in the report. On scans done lying down, a slight curve can simply reflect position. In children and teens who are still growing, doctors watch whether the curve increases, usually with repeat standing X-rays. In adults, larger curves can increase slowly over years. Curves that are large, painful or changing often lead to a specialist review.
Questions to ask your doctor
- What is the Cobb angle, and has it changed from older images?
- Was the curve measured on standing X-rays or on a scan done lying down?
- Does this curve need repeat X-rays, and how often?
