Parents can now check their child’s spine for possible signs of scoliosis with the new app SpineScreen developed by Shriners Hospitals for Children. Available for free on the App Store and Google Play, SpineScreen detects curves as the cell phone is moved along a child’s back, giving parents a quick, informal way to regularly monitor their child’s spine.

Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine that can restrict movement and in some cases lead to other serious medical conditions. It is most commonly diagnosed between 10 and 15 years of age, when children grow rapidly. Some cases, however, can go undetected. At this point in a child’s life, fewer vaccinations are required, so they may see a doctor less often. Since early detection is crucial, Shriners Hospitals for Children – Northern California physicians encourage parents to download the free SpineScreen app and check kids as part of their back-to-school routine each year.

Shriners Hospitals for Children – Northern California has an extensive scoliosis program that is designed to treat all forms of the condition. The medical team responds to the individual needs of each patient and works to achieve the best possible outcomes through minimally invasive treatments, therapy and leading-edge surgical care. Patients benefit from a multi-disciplinary team that includes spine surgeons, pediatric physiatrists, pediatric anesthesiologists, physical therapists and orthotists, who custom design and fabricate scoliosis braces on-site.

Shriners Hospitals for Children created the app as part of a broader initiative to highlight the importance of regular screenings and to educate parents on signs of scoliosis and treatment options.

“With doctors and staff who are global leaders in the treatment of scoliosis, parents turn to Shriners Hospitals for Children because they know their children will receive the best care possible,” said Gary Bergenske, chairman of the Board of Directors for Shriners Hospitals for Children. “Since scoliosis usually requires ongoing medical treatment throughout childhood, our commitment to provide care regardless of the families’ ability to pay is a huge relief to parents.”

For more information on scoliosis screenings, treatment options and to download the app, visit shrinershospitalsforchildren.org/scoliosis.