Spine health is important to our overall well=being. As adults, we have to make sure we take care of our spines by lifting heavy objects correctly and making certain that we don’t overdo things so that we don’t end up slipping a disc or otherwise tweaking something. But did you know that spine health actually begins when with childhood? Depending on your age, you probably remember a nurse or doctor coming to your school to take a look at your back. They were checking for scoliosis. Shriners Hospitals for Children knows that it’s vital to detect scoliosis early. That’s why they’ve launched the SpineScreen app.
How Does Scoliosis Affect Spine Health
You’ve probably heard the word scoliosis before, but do you know what it is? Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine which can range from mild to severe. This progressive spinal deformity can limit mobility and can sometimes lead to more serious health problems. Doctor’s don’t know why scoliosis occurs. They only know that it does happen and that it can have a significant impact on the health and quality of life for those suffering from it.
Scoliosis is most commonly diagnosed at between 10 and 15 years old, but some cases go undetected because, at that age, children see the doctor less frequently due to fewer vaccination requirements. However, that needs to change. As a progressive condition that affects 6 to 9 million people in the US and millions worldwide, the earlier it can be detected the better.
Ensure Spine Health with a Scoliosis Exam
Shriners Hospitals for Children deals with all sorts of diseases and maladies in children, and scoliosis is one of them. Because of this, they have extensive experience in how damaging it can be and how important it is to make sure children are regularly screened for it. They’ve released a new app to help parents detect scoliosis in conjunction with annual screenings called SpineScreen, and back to school time is the perfect time to get started.
Many schools screen children for scoliosis when they’re young, but not all of them do. Moreover, they only do the screening once at an early age. Also, many parents don’t even know if their children have been screened. Shriners Hospitals for Children recommends an annual spine health exam to be on the lookout for scoliosis.
Shriners Hospitals for Children – A Leader in Pediatric Spine Health
Shriners Hospitals for Children is a leader in pediatric spine health. This nationwide network of hospitals provides pediatric specialty care, including all aspects of scoliosis, to kids who need it most. They know there’s no one-size-fits-all treatment for this disease. They know it takes a team focusing on all aspects of the disease to treat it effectively. Shriners Hospitals is at the forefront of scoliosis treatment, including the latest cutting edge surgical procedures, exercise programs, physical therapy, and bracing.
SpineScreen for Spine Health
SpineScreen from Shriners Hospitals for Children is a powerful tool in helping parents put spine health first in their children. It’s available on the App Store and Google Play for FREE, and it allows parents to perform a quick check on their child’s spine. Developed by doctors at Shriners Hospitals for Children, the app detects curves when the phone (through the app) is moved along a child’s back, giving parents a way to monitor their child’s spine regularly. It’s easy to use and will set a yearly reminder. It’s a great way to help detect possible signs of scoliosis. However, remember that it is not intended to diagnose scoliosis or to take the place of a doctor’s exam.
SpineScreen – Keep Their Spines Healthy
As an expecting mom, I’m already reading up on everything I can to help ensure my child has a happy, healthy life. That’s why I already have SpineScreen on my phone. This app can help all us parents ensure that we do everything we can to ensure our children’s ongoing spine health. Join me and download SpineScreen today. Get yours from the App Store or Google Play right now and visit Shriners Hospitals for Children’s scoliosis page to learn more about the disease and treatment options. If you know a child that might be able to get help from Shriners Hospitals for Children, encourage their parent or guardian to call 800-237-5055 today and get on the road to spine health.
Marcie W.
September 1, 2017Shriners Hospitals do so much for children! I remember being tested for scoliosis in elementary school and always wondered why they stopped doing that.
Stacie @ Divine Lifestyle
September 1, 2017This sounds like an excellent app. I think it’s so important to do everything we can to be on the lookout for this. Not all schools screen for it the way they used to.
Jen Walker
September 1, 2017Scoliosis runs in my family so I am familiar with the condition. It’s almost mind boggling the seemingly unrelated issues that can develop when you have it.
Amber Myers
September 1, 2017This is so important to do! My children both have spine checks in school at least.
Jrnn
September 1, 2017I worked for a chiropractor for 7 years. I had treatments during my pregnancy and the minute they babies were born. It is so
Important for good health
Jen Temcio
September 1, 2017I did not know that scoliosis was a hereditary trait. Cool that they make an app for early screening.
Dogvills
September 1, 2017This is very important, especially when your family has a history of scoliosis. I am downloading this app. Thanks for sharing.
Kitty
September 2, 2017Thanks for posting this, I never new anything about scoliosis…
Sarah Bailey
September 2, 2017I have to admit I didn’t know most of this, I had no idea that it was thought kids should have yearly checks, I know they found a curve in my spine at around 10 but that was the last that was ever said / done about it.
Chubskulit Rose
September 2, 2017A friend of mine from back home have this health condition. She didn’t have the medical resources she needed when she was a kid so it got worse growing up.
JESSICA TAYLOR
September 2, 2017This sounds like an important app! I definitely plan on downloading it.
ricci
September 2, 2017This is so true!! I think there are so many things parents should stay on top of, including their child’s spine health!!
Victoria Heckstall
September 2, 2017This looks like a great app. It’s very helpful, You can check your love ones health even if we our in home and in just one click. Awesome!!
Oyinkan
September 3, 2017Yeah i definitely remaining these tests as a kid. Everyone gets this checked at a very young age.
Lynndee
September 3, 2017My son is 14, but I had no idea about the importance of yearly spine checks. Will have to check the app for sure.
Jennifer L
September 3, 2017I absolutely love how accessible this app gives to check and track the spine. It’s just crazy how many are affected by scoliosis.
regina malloy
September 3, 2017Thank you very much for providing this information my friend has this
Ophelia T
September 3, 2017This is a great post. Spin health is so important for people of all ages. Thanks for sharing.
Nique
September 3, 2017You know whats funny they say scoliosis is mostly found in girls but usain bolt has it and its the fastest man alive how remarkable
Uprunforlife
September 3, 2017Back health begins at an early age. I remember my back pack being so heavy as a teenager. I’m thankful for the most part on our school district is going with digital books or classroom copies only. However, it makes doing homework a bit harder.
Suzanne Spiegoski
September 4, 2017I had a dear friend who suffered from MS so I can really appreciate what you’re sharing. It’s so informative and insightful, thank you. xo, Suzanne
Anh V. Nguyen
September 4, 2017I ‘ve never heard the SpineScreen app before. How they could make a helpful app! So cool for sure. I wish I knew it earlier. It would extremely have good effects on protecting my family from scoliosis.
Thank you for disclosing this, Angela!
Wildish Jess
September 6, 2017I remember they use do spine checks on us in elementary school. They used this plastic tool and slid it down our backs!
Laura H
September 7, 2017I knew a few people at school who has scoliosis when they were young so I see why it’s important to check up regularly!
Erica
December 16, 2017I didn’t realize I had scoliosis until I was an adult. I was shocked when I found out. Though mine is super minor. One disc in my spine is a little crooked. I take a lot of pilates which has helped even me out. But I look back at pictures from years ago and I can actually see the twist in my spine now that I’m aware of it. So this is important stuff!
Jamie Smartkins
June 7, 2019Thank you for sharing such useful information. I never knew of such thing . Spine health check is a must .