Spinal Screenings

Texas State law requires schools to conduct spinal screenings on students in grades 6 and 9 (unless the children were screened the previous year, in 5th or 8th). Northwest ISD conducts the mandated program in grades 5 and 8 to better accommodate the grade structure of our schools. High school students, enrolling in Northwest ISD without documentation of previous scoliosis screening will be screened on an as needed basis.

Our school will be conducting spinal screening around the end of January. The purpose of spinal screening is to detect the signs of abnormal curves of the spine at the earliest stages to determine the need for treatment.

Scoliosis, a common spinal abnormality found in adolescents, is a sideways twisting of the spine. It is usually detected in children between 10 and 14 years of age. Kyphosis, sometimes called round back, is an exaggerated rounding of the upper back and is often confused with poor posture. Many cases of curvature of the spine are mild and require only ongoing observation by a physician. Some cases may worsen as the child grows and require active treatment such as bracing or surgery. Early treatment can prevent the development of a severe spinal deformity, which can affect both a person’s appearance and health.

The procedure for screening is simple. Screeners who have been specially trained will look at your child’s back while standing and bending forward. Boys and girls will be screened separately and one at a time.

Important considerations for this screening include:

●Girls should wear a thin t-shirt or a sports bra or a two-piece swimsuit top underneath their shirt on exam day.

●If girls are wearing a sports bra or a two-piece swimsuit top underneath their shirt, it is recommended they remove their shirt for the screening.

Parents will be notified of the results of the screening only if professional follow-up is necessary. This screening procedure does not replace your child’s need for regular health care or check-ups.

If you do not want your child screened for religious reasons, you must submit an affidavit of exemption to the Campus Health Coordinator no later than a week prior to screenings.

Religious Affidavit Form