NETA Personal Trainer Practice Exam

Scoliosis is characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine. This condition often presents as a sideways curvature, generally observed when viewing the spine from a posterior perspective. In a typical spine, the vertebral column should primarily exhibit vertical alignment in this plane. However, in individuals with scoliosis, the spine deviates to one side, leading to the distinctive "C" or "S" shapes that can be measured in degrees.

The identification of scoliosis primarily hinges on this lateral curvature, which is a defining feature distinguishing it from other types of spinal curvatures such as lordosis (which involves an excessive inward curve of the spine) and kyphosis (which involves an excessive outward curve). Anteroposterior curvature and flat back posture also describe different spinal alignment issues that do not pertain to the lateral deviations seen in scoliosis. Therefore, understanding that scoliosis involves a lateral curvature provides clarity in identifying and diagnosing this specific spinal condition.