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Scoliometer

A scoliometer is an instrument that is used to estimate the amount of curve in a person's spine. It may be used as a tool during screening or as follow-up for scoliosis, a deformity in which the spine curves abnormally.

A scoliometer is similar to a level and is placed across the back at the peak (apex) of the curve. The amount of tilt in the back is estimated in degrees.

Doctors use X-ray images of the spine to diagnose scoliosis.

Last Revised: July 21, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: John Pope, MD - Pediatrics & Robert B. Keller, MD - Orthopedics

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