Episode Title: Why 10 Degrees Is the Diagnostic Threshold for Scoliosis

Why is scoliosis officially diagnosed at 10 degrees? In this episode, Dr. Tony Nalda explores the origin of the 10-degree cutoff, what it means for patients, and why the numbers don’t always reflect the impact scoliosis can have on daily life.

✅ What Is Scoliosis?

A lateral curvature of the spine of 10 degrees or more, with spinal rotation

Must be measured via Cobb angle on a standing spinal X-ray

Three-dimensional deformity—not just a sideways curve

✅ Cobb Angle & Severity Categories:

Mild: 10–25 degrees

Moderate: 25–40 degrees

Severe: 40+ degrees

Very Severe (Dr. Nalda’s category): 80+ degrees

These classifications were originally designed by orthopedic surgeons for surgical decision-making, not necessarily for predicting symptoms or patient outcomes.

✅ Why 10 Degrees?

In 1977, Dr. William Kane proposed 10° as the cutoff to create diagnostic consistency

Prior to this, some doctors diagnosed scoliosis at 5°, 15°, or even 20°

The 10-degree benchmark became the accepted clinical standard—but not because it signified a dramatic physiological shift

✅ Why "Mild" Scoliosis Can Still Be Serious:

Even small curves (10–20 degrees) can cause pain, dysfunction, and postural changes

Many patients with 15–20 degree curves experience symptoms despite being labeled “mild”

Early misalignments are like car tires out of alignment—they wear things down over time

✅ The Problem With Chasing Numbers:

Curves less than 10° are still spinal misalignments

Scoliosis isn’t always visible until 20–25°, meaning millions go undiagnosed

Many people don’t realize they have scoliosis until adulthood, especially if pain is minimal in youth

✅ What Matters Most:

Not just the degree of curvature, but the impact on your health and function

Early detection and proactive, conservative treatment can prevent small curves from becoming severe

Look beyond the labels—what matters is how your spine is affecting your quality of life

Every severe scoliosis case started out as a smaller curve. The earlier you intervene—regardless of whether it's “mild” or not—the better your chances are to prevent long-term progression.

Download the Free Guide: How to Effectively Treat Scoliosis
👉 scoliosisreductioncenter.com/free

🌐 Website: scoliosisreductioncenter.com
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It’s not just about the number—it’s about the impact. Treat the cause, not just the curve.

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