Which statement about scoliosis is true?

• A. Responds best to treatment only when severe
• B. Is a common postural finding
• C. Often presents with leg length discrepancy
• D. It has no effect on posture

Answer: (B)

Scoliosis is a lateral curvature of the spine that often shows up as a postural deviation. In many people, especially during adolescence, small curves can be visible as trunk asymmetry, uneven shoulders or hips, and a rib hump when the person bends forward. Because these changes can occur with mild, flexible curves, scoliosis is commonly observed as a postural finding rather than only in severe, fixed deformities.

Treatments aren’t limited to severe cases; mild curves may be monitored or addressed with posture training and targeted exercises, while larger curves may require bracing or surgery. Leg length discrepancy can contribute to compensatory postural changes, but it isn’t the defining or most common presentation of scoliosis. And since scoliosis can alter posture, saying it has no effect on posture isn’t accurate.