Adam's forward bend test primarily screens for which condition?

Adam's forward bend test primarily screens for which condition?

• A. Scoliosis
• B. Spondylolysis
• C. Disk herniation
• D. Osteoporosis

Answer: (A)

Adam's forward bend test looks for scoliosis by watching how the spine and rib cage behave when a person bends forward. In scoliosis, the spine curves to the side and the vertebrae rotate, which makes one side of the rib cage protrude more as the patient bends. That visible rib hump or asymmetry is what the test aims to detect, signaling the need for further imaging to measure curvature (Cobb angle) and assess severity. The test isn’t used to diagnose spondylolysis, disk herniation, or osteoporosis—these conditions have different signs, symptoms, and appropriate tests beyond this simple screening maneuver.

Adam's forward bend test looks for scoliosis by watching how the spine and rib cage behave when a person bends forward. In scoliosis, the spine curves to the side and the vertebrae rotate, which makes one side of the rib cage protrude more as the patient bends. That visible rib hump or asymmetry is what the test aims to detect, signaling the need for further imaging to measure curvature (Cobb angle) and assess severity. The test isn’t used to diagnose spondylolysis, disk herniation, or osteoporosis—these conditions have different signs, symptoms, and appropriate tests beyond this simple screening maneuver.