Screening at Ford
Valerie Schwegmann, the school nurse at Ford, will be conducting spinal
screenings on all 8th graders in the spring of each year. Seventh
graders are not screened. The purpose of this screening is to detect the signs of
abnormal curves of the spine.Student's Preparation
Students should wear or bring shorts to school for the screening.
All students must remove their shirt for this exam. For this
reason, we request that girls wear a sports bra, tube top, or a two
piece swimsuit top under their shirt.
What is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a "side to side" curve of the back. It is a deformity of the
spinal column or backbone.
What Causes Scoliosis?
Most scoliosis is of unknown cause ("idiopathic"). Recent studies suggest
that heredity does play a part in these cases. Therefore, if a person is found to
have scoliosis, other family members should also be checked.
Who is Affected by Scoliosis?
Anyone can be affected by scoliosis. Onset usually occurs between the ages of 10 and
13, when the child begins the rapid growth spurt. Scoliosis can affect members of
both sexes, but occurs more frequently in females, who account for approximately 85% of
the cases.
Why is Screening for Scoliosis
Important?
It is most important to detect the condition as early as possible so that treatment can be
provided. Without treatment, undetected scoliosis can get worse rapidly during the
growth years and result in physical deformity, limitation of physical activity, and other
more serious complications.
Are Schools Required to Provide
Screening?
House Bill 832 passed by the Texas Legislature in 1985 requires screening for abnormal
spinal curves in grades 6 and 9 (schools may adopt programs to screen grades 5 and 8
instead of 6 and 9). If a child shows any signs of a possible deformity, the school
is required to notify the parents.
What can parents do?
If notified that their child may have an abnormal spinal curve, parents should take their
child to the doctor for a diagnosis. Parents can also learn to check their child for
a curve of the spine. If they suspect that their child may have a problem, they may
check with the school nurse, the health department, or their private doctor. |
