Čes-slov Pediat 2026, 81(2):94-97 | DOI: 10.55095/CSPediatrie2025/059

Scoliosis screening in school-aged children (6-15 years) in the Czech Republic

Jana Kratěnová¹, Naděžda Čapková¹, Kristýna Žejglicová¹, Kateřina Smíšková²

¹ Oddělení monitorování zdravotního stavu, Centrum zdraví a životního prostředí, Státní zdravotní ústav, Praha

² Spirální Stabilizace SPS Brno s.r.o.

Introduction: Scoliosis in children represents a significant clinical and public health concern, requiring attention not only from pediatricians but also from other healthcare professionals, educators, and parents. The primary aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of pathological spinal curvature among school-aged children.

Methods: Scoliosis screening was carried out by rehabilitation physicians, physiotherapists, and staff from the National Institute of Public Health. The methodology followed the recommendations of a specialized rehabilitation center for scoliosis diagnosis and treatment, in accordance with the 2018 US Guidelines. Screening included the Adams forward bend test complemented by scoliometer measurement. A total of 1,369 children in age 6-11 (grades 1-5 of primary school) and 767 children in age 12-15 (grades 6-9) from several elementary schools in the Czech Republic were examined.

Results: A positive Adams test result with scoliometer measurement (≥ 5°) was identified in 18.6 % of children. Physiological findings were observed in 58.1 %, while 23.3 % of children showed minor deviations (3°-4°). Children with results of 5°-6° are considered at risk of scoliosis, and follow-up within 6-12 months is recommended. For those with results ≥ 7°, the risk is higher and referral to a physician is advised.

Conclusion: In several countries, scoliosis screening is regarded as an effective tool for early detection and prevention of severe complications, including the need for surgical intervention. Despite the potential for both false-positive and false-negative results, it offers an important opportunity for timely identification, initiation of treatment, and improved prognosis. In the Czech Republic, scoliosis screening is currently substituted by routine preventive medical examinations by a general practitioner for children and adolescents.

Keywords: scoliosis, children, school screening.

Received: September 16, 2025; Revised: November 18, 2025; Accepted: November 19, 2025; Published: March 1, 2026  Show citation