The examiner should stand behind the patient and observe the alignment of the spine in the flexed position to determine scoliosis.
View the spine from the side to determine kyphosis.
Ask the patient if he is aware of sore spots. Palpate the spinous process and be gentle with the sore spots. Percuss one vertebra at a time, starting from head.
Assess range of motion of spine by having patient bend down to pick up an object without bending his legs while you hold his hips.
Normal:
Gentle concavities in cervical and lumbar regions and a convexity in the thorax.