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Scoliosis

Also called: Scoliosis, curved spine

A sideways curve of the spine, most often found in children around puberty. Most curves are mild and only need watching.

Common startAges 10 to 15
SignsUneven shoulders or hips
TreatmentWatching, brace, or surgery

Overview

Most scoliosis has no known cause. Curves can grow during growth spurts.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Uneven shoulders, hips, or waist
  • Uneven shoulders or hips, or a curved spine

Less common

  • Back pain
  • Rib hump

When to get medical care

Call 911This isn't an emergency by itself. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting.
Get care todayBack pain with numbness, weakness, or bladder changes.
See a doctor soonA curve that looks worse.

Causes

Usually unknown.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
  • It can run in families. Tell your doctor if a parent, brother, or sister has it.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Girls
  • Family history

Diagnosis

A clinician checks the back.

Questions you may be asked

  • Family history

The exam

Bending forward test.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • X-ray: Measures the curve.

Treatment

Most need only checkups.

Self-care

  • Stay active
  • Keep follow-up X-rays
  • Stay active and strong

A brace can stop growing curves; surgery for large ones.

Prevention

It can't be prevented.

  • There is no known way to prevent it. Early checkups help find it sooner.

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to an orthopedist (bone and joint doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • Girls: More likely to have curves that grow.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Most people live normally.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

  • Will it get worse?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Scoliosis

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.