A Scoliosis is a curving of the spine from side to side.  It is a developmental defect and not the result of poor posture habits.  80% of scoliosis cases are idiopathic (of no known cause), but there is a genetic predisposition (girls get it more often than boys).

Scoliosis starts as a slight bend in a growing child's spine.  It may remain slight and non-progressive, or it may progress over time, sometimes rapidly during the adolescent growth years, ages 10 through 15.  The spine rotates forward as it bent sideways.  The back deforms, developing a hump on one side.  The rib cage twist, squeezing internal organs.  Breathing becomes harder in severe cases.

About 1 in 10 people have a mild form of scoliosis; about two in 100 will have a progressive condition and need medical treatment.  In the developing stage, there is no pain to indicate progression.

Curves that are unstable will continue to advance in adulthood.  Left untreated, scoliosis can cause obvious physical deformity, pain, arthritic symptoms, heart and lung complications, and can limit physical activity.

The earlier a scoliosis is detected, the less likelihood of difficulty and crippling deformity.  To detect an abnormal spinal curvature early, a parent or physician can perform a one minute screening test  This test should be performed early in the child's life, (age 6 and up).

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Last modified: 09/27/06