Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a medical condition in which the human or animal spine has a sideways curve. The curve is usually S-shaped or C-shaped.^[7] In some, the curve is stable. In others, though, it increases over time.^[8] Mild scoliosis does not often cause problems. Severe cases, however, can interfere with breathing and can cause pain.

Scoliosis
Showing of the spine with abnormal curve (in red), with the ribs to either side of the spine in the top section and pelvis located at the bottom, and bones of the leg (in blue)
Pronunciation	/ˌskoʊliˈoʊsɪs/[1]
Medical specialty	Orthopedic surgery
Symptoms	Sideways curve in the back[2]
Usual onset	10–20 years old[2]
Causes	Usually unknown[3]
Risk factors	Family history, cerebral palsy, Marfan syndrome, tumors such as neurofibromatosis[2]
Diagnostic method	X-ray[2]
Treatment	Watchful waiting, bracing, exercises, surgery[2][4]
Frequency	3%[5][6]

The cause of most cases is unknown. However, it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Risk factors include having affected family members.

Diagnosis is often confirmed with x-rays.

Scoliosis usually occurs between ages 10 and 20. Males can be affected, although females are more often affected.