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Scoliosis is a common condition in children and teens where the spine curves sideways.
In many people, the scoliosis curvature is very slight. These people might not even realize they have scoliosis because they experience no symptoms.
For others, scoliosis can cause changes in posture as they grow. School screenings and regular checkups starting around age 10 can catch it early.
If you are concerned that you or your child may have scoliosis, the orthopedic team at Dignity Health can provide personalized, caring treatment at one of our locations.
Small spinal curves may not cause any symptoms. Scoliosis rarely causes pain. Over time, as the curve increases or as children with scoliosis grow, signs and symptoms such as these may develop:
Most cases of scoliosis are idiopathic, meaning there is no known origin. No specific activity causes this type of scoliosis, and there is nothing you could have done to prevent it.
Idiopathic scoliosis tends to run in families and is likely at least partially inherited.
Less than one-quarter of scoliosis cases are caused by neuromuscular conditions such as muscular dystrophy or congenital disabilities involving the spine. Age-related degeneration can also lead to scoliosis.
Scoliosis is typically categorized based on its cause, as follows:
Degenerative scoliosis is typically the result of joints and spinal discs deteriorating more rapidly on one side than the other. Unlike other forms of scoliosis, adult-onset scoliosis may cause symptoms such as weakness, loss of balance, and significant back pain. As many as half of all adults over 60 develop some degree of degenerative scoliosis.
Since most cases of scoliosis are inherited, having a family history of scoliosis is the leading risk factor. In other words, if anyone in your immediate family has scoliosis, you are more likely to be diagnosed.
Aging is the leading risk factor for degenerative forms of scoliosis.
Other conditions that can cause, or increase your chances of developing, scoliosis include:
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with one of these conditions or congenital disabilities, your Dignity Health doctor can help you understand whether you may need treatment.
The information contained in this article is meant for educational purposes only and should not replace advice from your healthcare provider.