Scoliosis

1. What is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves sideways in the shape of an “S” or “C.” While small curves are common and may not cause problems, larger curves can affect posture, appearance, and sometimes breathing or movement. Scoliosis can affect children, teenagers, or adults.

2. Causes of Scoliosis

The exact cause of scoliosis often depends on age and type:

• Idiopathic scoliosis – the most common type, especially in teenagers; cause is unknown

• Congenital scoliosis – present at birth due to spinal bone formation problems

• Neuromuscular scoliosis – linked to conditions like cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy

• Degenerative scoliosis – develops in adults due to arthritis, disc degeneration, or spinal changes with aging

• Other causes (less common): injuries, infections, or tumors of the spine

3. Symptoms

Scoliosis symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the curve:

• Uneven shoulders, waist, or hips

• One shoulder blade sticking out more than the other

• Ribs sticking out on one side

• Leaning to one side

• Back pain (more common in adults than children)

• In severe cases, breathing difficulties if the curve affects the chest

4. Diagnosis

Scoliosis is diagnosed through:

• Physical exam – your provider may ask you to bend forward to check for unevenness in the back or ribs

• Imaging tests:

  • X-rays – to measure the size of the curve (Cobb angle)

  • MRI or CT scans – if another condition is suspected or more detail is needed

• Monitoring over time – especially in children, to see if the curve is getting worse

5. Treatments

Treatment depends on the size of the curve, age, symptoms, and risk of progression:

Observation:

• Small curves may not need treatment, only regular checkups and X-rays to monitor changes

Bracing:

• For growing children and teenagers with moderate curves

• A brace won’t cure scoliosis but can prevent the curve from worsening

Physical therapy and exercise:

• Strengthening and stretching to improve posture, flexibility, and reduce discomfort

• May help with back pain, especially in adults

Medications and lifestyle:

• Pain relievers for discomfort

• Healthy activity and maintaining strong core muscles

Surgery (for severe cases):

• Spinal fusion or other surgical procedures may be recommended if the curve is severe, progressing quickly, or causing major symptoms

• In certain cases, minimally invasive spine surgery techniques may be used to correct spinal alignment or stabilize the spine. These approaches can reduce blood loss, shorten hospital stays, and speed up recovery compared to traditional open surgery.