Cobb angle is a measurement of the degree of side-to-sidespinal curvature, which is a deformity calledscoliosis.

This article explains the role of the Cobb angle in diagnosing scoliosis.

This is called theapical vertebra.

Visualizing the Cobb Angle

The apical vertebra is where two lines drawn from your X-rays will meet.

First, two lines are drawn along the edge of the top and bottom bones of the curve.

They are located above and below the apical vertebra.

Watchful waiting may be enough so long as the scoliosis is monitored.

This typically means reassessing the Cobb angle every four to six months in a growing child or adolescent.

These are mild cases, often without symptoms, but there is a chance that the curvature can progress.

A 5-degree change in Cobb angle (or more) can change the diagnosis and treatment.

The goal of thesetreatmentsis to help halt the progression of the curve.

Many people report excellent results with the Schroth or otherscoliosis-specific exercise methods.

However, degenerative scoliosis also can occur in people age 65 and older.

Often a spinal fusion is done to force the curve to stop developing.

Some 38,000 people complete spinal fusion surgery each year.

Is It an Exact Science?

Equipment errors, imaging errors, and the subjective reading of the healthcare provider can change the values.

Scoliosis measurement software and intelligent medical devices continue to improve the way that scoliosis is evaluated and treated.

Summary

The Cobb angle is a mathematical tool for assessing the curvature of the spine.

Along with physical exams and other tests, it is used to assess scoliosis andkyphosisof the spine.

The size of the Cobb angle helps to determine what kind of treatment is needed.

With a mild curvature, monitoring may be all that’s necessary.

With severe scoliosis, treatment may mean spinal fusion surgery.

Bracing and physical therapy are some of the options in between.

Your healthcare provider will explain the Cobb angle and other tests results, and discuss any diagnosis with you.

2023 Sep 8;39(6):839-846. doi: 10.3171/2023.7.SPINE23146.

2022 Apr 24;22(9):3258. doi: 10.3390/s22093258.

National Scoliosis Foundation.Scoliosis Media & Community Guide.

American Association of Neurological Surgeons.Scoliosis.