Scoliosis in Children and Adolescents

What is it?

Points To Remember About Scoliosis

• Scoliosis is a disorder in which there is a sideways curve of the spine.
• People of all ages can have scoliosis. The most common type (idiopathic) is caused by unknown factors and typically occurs in children ages 10 to 12 and in their early teens.
• People with milder curves may only need to visit their doctor for regular check-ups. Some people who have scoliosis need treatment, such as braces or surgery.
• Your doctor may take a medical history, give you a physical examination, and take x-rays to diagnose you with scoliosis.

Scoliosis is a disorder in which there is a sideways curve of the spine. Curves are often S-shaped or C-shaped. In most people, there is no known cause for this curve. Curves frequently follow patterns that have been studied in previous patients (see "Curved patterns of the spine" diagram). 

People with milder curves may only need to visit their doctor for regular check-ups. Some people who have scoliosis need treatment.

Curved patterns of the spine