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Uneven shoulders or hips, or a curved spine

Also called: Scoliosis

Uneven shoulders or hips, or a curved spine, can be signs of scoliosis. It often starts in children before puberty. Mild scoliosis just needs monitoring; larger curves may need a brace or surgery.

Common causesScoliosis, leg length difference, posture
Usually serious?Usually not
Get checked ifVisible curve or uneven shoulders
If you think it's an emergency, call 911.Thinking about suicide? Call or text 988.

Overview

Scoliosis is a sideways curve of the spine, often found during growth spurts.

Signs include uneven shoulders, hips, or waist, and one shoulder blade sticking out.

When to get medical care

Call 911Back pain with weakness, numbness, or loss of bladder control.
Get care todayNot usually urgent.
See a doctor soonUneven shoulders or hips. A visible curve.

Causes

Causes include idiopathic scoliosis, congenital, neuromuscular conditions, and leg length differences.

OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause uneven shoulders or hips, or a curved spine. Each shows how soon to get care.

Common causes

  • ScoliosisSee a doctor if it doesn't get better

    A sideways curve of the spine, often noticed as uneven shoulders, hips, or waist.

What you can do at home

  • Keep follow-up visits.

Medicines

Observation, bracing, or surgery depending on the curve.

At the doctor

An X-ray measures the curve.

Questions you may be asked

  • Family history
  • Back pain

The exam

A forward-bend test.

Tests

  • Spine X-ray

Prevention

Early checking helps.

  • School and well-child screenings

Check your symptoms

Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.

Start the symptom checker

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.