Scoliosis
Scoliosis is a condition in which the spine curves sideways, often into a C or S shape, instead of running straight. It frequently develops during the growth spurt before puberty. Many curves are mild and need only monitoring, while larger curves may require bracing or surgery. The cause is often unknown.
Overview
What is scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine. Instead of appearing straight when viewed from behind, the spine curves to one side, sometimes forming a C or S shape, and the spine may also twist. Curves range from very mild to more pronounced. In many people the cause is unknown, and the condition is then called idiopathic scoliosis.
How common is scoliosis and who does it affect?
Scoliosis is fairly common and most often first noticed in children and teenagers during periods of rapid growth. It can affect both boys and girls, though larger curves that need treatment are seen somewhat more often in girls. Scoliosis can also occur in adults, sometimes from age-related changes in the spine.
Symptoms and Causes
What are the symptoms of scoliosis?
Signs of scoliosis can include a visibly curved spine, uneven shoulders, one shoulder blade sticking out more than the other, or a tilt to one side. Clothes may hang unevenly. Mild scoliosis often causes no pain, especially in children. In some people, particularly adults, larger curves may lead to back discomfort or stiffness.
What causes scoliosis and who is at risk?
In most childhood cases, the cause is unknown, though it can run in families. Less commonly, scoliosis is linked to conditions affecting the nerves or muscles, or to the way the spine formed before birth. In adults, it may result from wear-and-tear changes in the spine over time. A family history can increase the likelihood.
Diagnosis and Tests
How is scoliosis diagnosed?
A doctor usually examines the back while the person stands and bends forward, looking for curvature and asymmetry. If scoliosis is suspected, an X-ray confirms the diagnosis and measures the size of the curve, which helps guide care. The degree of curve and a child's remaining growth are important factors in planning treatment.
Management and Treatment
How is scoliosis treated or managed?
Treatment depends on the size of the curve, age and likely progression. Many mild curves only need regular monitoring to check for change. Moderate curves in growing children may be managed with a brace to help prevent worsening. Larger or progressing curves may be treated with surgery. A specialist tailors the approach to each person.
Prevention
Can scoliosis be prevented or its risk reduced?
Most scoliosis cannot be prevented, as the common form has no known cause and is not related to posture, activity or carrying bags. However, early detection makes a difference. Spotting a curve while a child is still growing allows timely monitoring or treatment, which can help stop a curve from becoming more severe.
Additional Common Questions
Does poor posture or a heavy backpack cause scoliosis?
No. The common form of scoliosis is not caused by posture, carrying bags or physical activity. These factors may affect comfort but do not create the spinal curve.
Will my child with mild scoliosis need a brace or surgery?
Not always. Many mild curves only require monitoring. Bracing or surgery is usually considered for larger curves or those that worsen during growth.
Can adults develop scoliosis?
Yes. Some adults develop scoliosis from age-related changes in the spine, and others have a curve that began in childhood and continued into adulthood.
This health topic is for general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician about your individual situation. See our medical disclaimer.