Scoliosis is when the spine curves to the side more than 10 degrees (less than 10 degrees is considered a normal variation). It is usually detected in young children who are still growing, and it often gets worse over time. It is important that children are screened for the condition so that scoliosis can be caught early and prevented from getting worse.
Usually, the cause is unknown. Scoliosis is most common in girls age 10-16, and fortunately is usually mild. Most cases will not need treatment as long as they do not get any worse. Some cases, however, do require surgery.
Causes and Risk factors
Causes
Eighty percent of cases are idiopathic scoliosis, which means the cause is unknown.
The other twenty percent can be divided into two categories: structural and nonstructural. Nonstructural scoliosis is caused by an underlying problem, such as muscle spasm, appendicitis or differing leg lengths. This type of scoliosis can be cured if the underlying problem is treated. Structural scoliosis may be caused by:
Tumors
Birth disorders
Injury
Abnormal vertebrae formation
Nueromuscular conditions
Cerebral Palsy
Spina bifida
Muscular dystrophy
Spinal muscular atrophy
Risk Factors
Scoliosis is more common in girls age 10-16
30 percent of people with scoliosis have family members with the
condition as well
People with missing or abnormally short arms or legs are also at risk
