Scoliosis. To refer or not to refer.

The scoliotic curve, at greatest risk for deterioration during the adolescent growth spurt, can be diagnosed by the simple procedure of the "bend test." Patients with curves less than 20 degrees need not be referred to a specialist, but continuous evaluation of the progression of the curve by the primary physician is essential until skeletal maturity is attained. Braces can control the progression of the curve, although surgical correction may sometimes be indicated.