What is the most sensitive test for diagnosing scoliosis?

The Adams forward bending test is considered the most sensitive test for diagnosing scoliosis because it allows for visual and physical assessment of spinal alignment and asymmetry while the patient is in a dynamic position. During this test, the patient bends forward at the waist, and the examiner observes the spine for any curvature or asymmetry that may not be as apparent when standing straight.

This test is particularly effective in adolescents, who are at the greatest risk for developing scoliosis as they grow. By identifying changes in the spine's position, the Adams forward bending test enables early detection of scoliosis, which is crucial for timely intervention.

Other methods, such as physical examination and Cobb angle measurement, while useful, do not provide the same level of sensitivity for initial detection. Standard radiography is essential for confirming the diagnosis and assessing the degree of curvature but is less sensitive in the very initial screening phases compared to the forward bending test. Thus, the Adams forward bending test plays a vital role in early scoliosis detection through a practical and efficient approach.