Final answer:
When a patient with scoliosis bends at the waist, one side of the back may appear higher due to the abnormal lateral curvature, which creates an asymmetrical alignment.
Step-by-step explanation:
When assessing a patient with scoliosis, the expected finding when they bend at the waist is an asymmetry between the right and left sides of the back. Scoliosis is an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine, often accompanied by twisting. In the bent position, the individual may have difficulty bending directly forward, and due to the curvature, one side of the back may appear more elevated or prominent than the other. This is referred to as a 'rib hump' or 'spinal hump' and occurs because the ribs on one side are pushed outwards more than on the opposite side.
Furthermore, scoliosis can be associated with other spinal disorders like kyphosis (an excessive curvature of the upper thoracic vertebral column) and lordosis (an excessive curvature in the lumbar region). These conditions can affect posture and alignment, and while they are more common in preteens and can worsen during growth spurts, not all cases require treatment. For growing children with scoliosis, a back brace may help, and in extreme cases, surgery could be considered.