Scoliosis

I don't know if there are many that try to apply with this, but typically it's disqualifying. In my case, it was before I started going to a chiropractor. The curve was then small enough that it wasn't disqualifying. For those that think that there isn't any hope, THERE IS

I am not a DR., but have two family members that have scoliosis, both required operations. Going to a chiropractor is not really an option that is viable if the candidate is DQd for scoliosis.

If memory serves me correctly the DQ would occur for a curvature of greater than 20 degrees. According to specialists that is considered acute.

Chiropractors are a good idea for short term back relief due to scoliosis, but it is important to continue to see a doctor to make sure the degree has not increased with time. Studies have proven that it does not slow down the curvature.

Bullet has scoliosis and at one time the AF docs said it was 23 which was an immediate DQ. His folks took him to a specialist, world renown (featured in People magazine for creating the operation of fusing) the doc took several xrays and his curvature was 17. The reason for the discrepancy was explained that if you even breathe a tiny bit this can cause a larger curve and that is why the patient and technician really need to know how to take/read the xray perfectly.
~ Once he submitted that exam/report to AF he was given an all clear to a Q and did not need a waiver. It was also never brought up again in his 21 yr career.

My son was DQ for similar back issues. We first went to recommended clinic, and believed did not take X-RAY correctly. Was then DQ’d. After returning to Ortho. Dr. who treated son, and showing criteria for DQ from DoDMERB, Dr. said my son is fit, and should have no issue with any physical requirement of military service, and gave us a second option letter, along with new x-rays. Sent 2nd opinion letter to DoDMERB, and USAFA was first to grant waiver, but no other SA's did. USAFA gave appointment a week later. Son is now at USAFA CO 2017 C3C.
Good Luck ! GO FALCONS

My son has mild scoliosis, i dont recall the curve. He was monitored but never required treatment. Should I get paperwork from Ortho prior to DoMerb or wait and see what they say?

turtlerunnernc said:

My son has mild scoliosis, i dont recall the curve. He was monitored but never required treatment. Should I get paperwork from Ortho prior to DoMerb or wait and see what they say?

Click to expand...

If it's easy to get the paperwork then it never hurts to go ahead and have it handy. I would not necessarily submit it until they request it though. They may not ask.

kp2001 said:

If it's easy to get the paperwork then it never hurts to go ahead and have it handy. I would not necessarily submit it until they request it though. They may not ask.

Click to expand...

Listen to kp.

Don't go looking for trouble. Be prepared for trouble if it arises, but until that time, answer honestly and move forward.

Will do. Thank you.

Worried we are looking at a DQ. Curve 9% by Cobb and levoconvex scoliosis of the lower thoracic and upper lumbar 22%. I think lumbar DQ is 20% and Thoracic is 30% and Cobb 55%.

Ugh. Completely stressed now. DS is not symptomatic and has never had issues. He has sent the requested letter explaining his athletics over the last year and that he has no restrictions, needs no accommodations. He has done JCLC which included running, repelling mini basic training type activies. Does the fact that he has no pain, no restrictions or accommodations affect the status?

His status has changed to Qualified !!!!!

Congrats! So glad for you both