Scoliosis

Clinic

• Scoliosis is a sideways curve of the spine.
• The curve is usually "S"- or "C"-shaped over three dimensions.
• In some, the degree of curve is stable, while in others, it increases over time. Mild scoliosis does not typically cause problems, but more severe cases can affect breathing and movement. Pain is usually present in adults, and can worsen with age. As the condition progresses, it may impact a person's life and hence, can also be considered a disability.
• Scoliosis occurs in about 3% of people. It most commonly develops between the ages of ten and twenty.
• Females typically are more severely affected than males with a ratio of 4:1.

Causes

• The cause of most cases is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
• Risk factors include other affected family members. It can also occur due to another condition such as
  • Muscle spasms
  • Cerebral palsy
  • Marfan syndrome
  • Tumors such as neurofibromatosis.