Approximately six million Americans are affected by scoliosis, a condition that results in a sideways curve of the backbone. To help promote awareness of this spinal deformity, David W. Michalak, MD, is offering free screenings for boys and girls between the ages of four and 14 during the entire month of June.

Screening is aimed at detecting scoliosis in its early stages, when treatment may limit further deformity and possibly avoid the need for surgery. No appointment is required for the 15-minute screening. The complimentary screenings are held in Dr. Michalak’s offices, which are located at 20423 Kuykendahl Road (one-half mile south of FM 2920) in Spring. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“Scoliosis usually begins gradually and may develop unnoticed in its early stages by both parent and child alike,” says Dr. Michalak, a family medicine physician with Windrose Family Medicine. “This is because most cases of early scoliosis are not associated with pain or disability. But if untreated, scoliosis may progress into deformity and result in back pain, unsightly posture, disability and even the decline in function of the heart and lungs.”

Scoliosis generally appears in late childhood and early teen years. The condition can run in families, with girls being eight times more likely than boys to require corrective treatment for a significant curvature of the spine. Symptoms of scoliosis may include uneven shoulders and hips, or leaning to one side. Treatment can range from simple observation to braces or spinal fusion surgery. Four out of five people with scoliosis have a mild curvature (less than 20 degrees) that requires only periodic check-ups to see if the curve worsens.

For more information about the free scoliosis screenings, call 281-500-8660.