During scoliosis screening, which component of the Adam’s forward bend test is included?

• A. The child bends forward at the waist
• B. The child runs in place
• C. The child stands on one leg
• D. The clinician taps the spine with a mallet

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that scoliosis screening relies on how spinal rotation reveals a rib hump when a person bends forward. In the Adams forward bend test, the child bends forward at the waist with legs straight so the clinician can observe the back for any asymmetry or a rib prominence caused by vertebral rotation. This posture makes deformities more visible than in an upright position because gravity highlights the rib hump and spinal curvature.

The other actions aren’t part of this screening and wouldn’t reliably demonstrate scoliosis. Running in place, standing on one leg, or tapping the spine with a mallet don’t reveal the characteristic rib hump or rotational deformity seen during the forward bend. If a hump or asymmetry is observed, it suggests scoliosis and prompts further evaluation.