Omar Elshimi
Project: Developing a 3D body-scanning tool for radiation-free scoliosis detection
"When I started research under Dr. Westover and Dr. Adeeb's supervision, I wasn't sure I was cut out for it. However, their mentorship and belief in me helped me develop real skill and conviction as a researcher, and I'm grateful for that."
Summary: Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves to the side in a C or S shape, which can make the shoulders, hips or even ribs look uneven. For kids and teens, especially young girls, this isn't just a medical problem; it can really hurt their confidence and make them feel different from their peers.
Right now, doctors eyeball patients’ backs and use their best guess to score hip and shoulder symmetry. However, because every doctor sees things differently, these scores are more opinion than precise measurement.
To address this, our team at BackSCNR, a local health startup, created a 3D body-scanning tool that does not use radiation. Think of it like a high-tech camera that scans and creates a digital map of the torso. Instead of guessing, our tool gives an exact symmetry score. It helps doctors identify scoliosis early and lets patients and their families see exactly how treatment is working over time.
BackSCNR’s goal is to make scoliosis checks more accurate, safer and less stressful, and to help patients and families feel more confident and supported.
Omar Elshimi was supervised by Drs. Lindsey Westover and Samer Adeeb in the Faculty of Engineering. His WCHRI summer studentship was funded by the Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation. He is enrolled in the bachelor of science in civil engineering co-op program at the University of Alberta.
Read more about WCHRI’s training awards for students at all levels and generous grants for researchers. See the rest of the 2026 summer studentship recipients here.
