Scoliosis

Scoliosis is an unnatural curvature of the spine.  The spine looks more like an “S” or a “C” rather than a straight vertical line.

Cause unknown  

Scoliosis can run in families and is therefore likely genetic.  However, its exact cause is unknown. It can occur at any age.  

Most common in adolescents  

The most common form is adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, which affects 13 to 26 million adolescents worldwide. Girls are five times more likely than boys to develop the condition.

Scoliosis does not usually cause pain. Some cases do not progress and periodic checkups may be all that is needed. 

Some may need a brace and/or surgery

However, statistics show that one in ten adolescents diagnosed with mild scoliosis will progress to a moderate curve that requires brace treatment. One in ten patients who need a brace will progress further to a severe curve that requires major fusion surgery.

Curve progression is difficult to predict

One of the most challenging aspects of treating scoliosis is predicting which patients will progress to a severe spinal curve and require treatment.  The ability to predict scoliosis progression early and accurately will allow improved treatments that are safer, more effective and more patient-friendly.