Scoliosis in infants is rare. But if your baby is affected, it is understandably a cause for concern. In most cases, it is a harmless postural preference that can be effectively managed with posture advice or osteopathy. Sometimes, however, there is an actual curvature of the spine: infantile scoliosis. This is a distinct, medically diagnosed condition that requires a different approach than a simple postural preference.
What is scoliosis in infants?
Scoliosis is a lateral curvature of the spine, often in a mild S- or C-shape. When this is diagnosed as early as infancy (up to about 3 to 4 years of age), it is referred to as infantile idiopathic scoliosis. “Idiopathic” means that no clear underlying cause has been identified. This is a different condition from congenital scoliosis, in which the curvature results from a congenital abnormality of the vertebrae themselves. Infantile scoliosis is relatively rare and resolves on its own in some infants, but not always.
It is important to distinguish infantile scoliosis from a preferred posture, in which a baby prefers to turn its head to one side. A preferred posture is much more common, is generally harmless, and often responds well to posture advice or osteopathic care.
What signs might indicate scoliosis in infants?
A number of characteristics can help distinguish between a normal preferred posture and possible scoliosis, although only a doctor can determine this with certainty. A preferred posture usually involves a preference for turning the head, which is “flexible”: when the baby is lifted or turned, the asymmetry usually disappears. With scoliosis, the curvature in the back often remains visible even when the baby is held or moved differently—this is also referred to as a “stiff” curvature. Other signs that may warrant an evaluation include noticeably uneven shoulder or hip heights, or asymmetrical skin folds along the torso.
How is scoliosis in infants diagnosed?
A diagnosis of infantile scoliosis can only be made by a medical professional, usually a pediatrician or orthopedist. A physical examination provides an initial indication of whether further testing is warranted, but an X-ray is necessary for a definitive diagnosis and to determine the severity of the curvature. If you suspect that your baby has a curved spine that is not due to a normal preferred posture—for example, because the spine remains curved even at rest or when lifted—then a visit to your family doctor or the ‘consultatie bureau’ is the first and most important step. They can determine whether an X-ray and a referral to a pediatric orthopedist are necessary.
What role can an osteopath play?
An osteopath cannot and is not permitted to diagnose scoliosis in infants, and does not aim to treat the spinal curvature directly. However, osteopathy can play a supportive role alongside medical care: by assessing your baby’s overall mobility—such as tension in the back, pelvis, or neck—it may help improve comfort and promote a more flexible posture. This is always done using gentle techniques adapted for babies.
It is important to emphasize: there is no scientific evidence that osteopathy can correct a diagnosed case of scoliosis or halt its progression. In the case of a confirmed diagnosis, medical follow-up (and, if necessary, treatment such as a cast or a brace for progressive forms) remains the primary course of action. At most, osteopathy can play a complementary, supportive role in the overall care plan, focusing on comfort and mobility, but it should never be used as a substitute for medical care.
What is a sensible first step?
Have you noticed that your baby has an asymmetrical or curved posture? If so, please discuss this first with your child health clinic or family doctor, especially if the condition does not improve or if the back appears curved even at rest. If it’s simply a matter of your baby’s preferred posture, or if you’d like to support your baby’s overall relaxation and mobility in addition to medical follow-up, you’re also welcome to schedule an appointment for an osteopathic consultation.
Please feel free to contact us to discuss the options.
