Curves and balance
Sideways curves of scoliosis and forward rounding of kyphosis are measured, along with whether the head sits balanced over the pelvis.
Diagnostics · Standard
Full-Spine Standing X-Ray
A full-spine X-ray taken while standing, showing posture, balance and alignment from neck to pelvis.
What it is
Your spine, under gravity
Segmental MRI slices show detail; a full-spine standing film shows context. Taken upright from skull to pelvis, it captures how the whole column balances — the view deformity assessment and multi-level planning depend on.
Sagittal profile
The side view shows if the spine compensates — flattened lower back, tilted pelvis, bent knees — to stay upright, which explains fatigue pain.
Under real load
Lying down unloads the spine and can hide deformity. Standing shows posture as it actually is during daily life.
Whole-picture planning
Seeing every level at once reveals which curves are structural and which are compensatory — essential before any deformity or multi-level plan.
Common questions
Things patients ask us
Why standing instead of lying down?
Gravity changes everything. A curve that looks mild lying flat can be far more pronounced standing — and standing is how you live.
Who needs a full-spine film?
Mainly patients with visible curvature, imbalance, or multi-level disease being considered for correction or extensive surgery — your surgeon decides if it adds value.
Does it replace an MRI?
No. It shows alignment and bone, not discs or nerves. The two complement each other.
How should I prepare?
Stand normally and relaxed — adopting your everyday posture matters more than standing artificially straight. Metal objects are removed from the area.
Start with your case.
Send your history and any imaging you already have. The ProSpine team will review your case and respond with the next steps.
Free · No obligation · Reviewed by the ProSpine team