Background Paediatric scoliosis is a common condition seen by general practitioners. Structural scoliosis is characterised by axial rotation at the apex. Several new operative treatments have recently been developed. Objective The aim of this article is to give an overview of scoliosis diagnosis, assessment and management. Discussion Scoliosis assessment should identify structural curves, underlying causes, severity and growth potential. Atypical curves and red flags must be excluded. Observation is appropriate for curves <20° in patients with high growth potential (Risser 0–2) and curves <40° in patients with minimal growth potential (Risser 3–5). Bracing is appropriate for patients with a curve of 20–40° with high growth potential. Indications for surgery vary depending on patient and curve factors; however, surgery can be indicated when the curve is >40°. Surgery can be divided into three groups: growth modulation, instrumentation without fusion and instrumentation with fusion. Early diagnosis and referral to a paediatric spine service can improve outcomes.

Background Low back pain (LBP) is a common presentation in general practice. Clinical workup must exclude sinister underlying diseases. Treatment of central LBP is difficult given the numerous treatment options available. Objective The aim of this article is to help clinicians assess patients with LBP and formulate evidence-based treatment decisions. Discussion Patient presentations can be stratified according to the presence of red flags and pain type (ie non-spinal, radicular, non-organic and central). The vast majority of patients with acute central back pain experience improvement of their symptoms. Treatment options include education, lifestyle modification, heat, massage, graduated return to early activity, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications and muscle relaxants when appropriate. Chronic LBP treatment can also include paracetamol and physiotherapy. Secondline treatment can include psychological therapy, multidisciplinary rehabilitation, targeted injections and antidepressants. Tapentadol is a safe and effective medication for treating severe LBP. Pain specialist referral should be considered if patients require controlled analgesia. Surgical treatment has narrow indications in central non-radicular back pain and is considered as a last-line treatment in selected patients.