What is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a curve of the spine when viewed from the front. Spines should be straight when viewed from the front, and “S”-shaped when viewed from the side. We define scoliosis as any curve that measures more than 10 degrees of angulation. Curves smaller than that we consider “spinal asymmetry”.

There are two main types of scoliosis:

  1. Structural curves
    where the spine curves due to the shape of the bones, or the rotation of the spine.
  2. Nonstructural curves
    due to leg-length asymmetries, or psychiatric issues.

Nonstructural curves do not need the help of a spine specialist. Typically shoe orthotics or adaptations can help when there is a significant leg-length discrepancy.

Structural curves (such as congenital, neuromuscular, or idiopathic curves) should be evaluated by a spine specialist when they are greater than 20 degrees, or causing a lot of leg pain.
Diagnosis
Scoliosis can be detected on physical exam, especially when patients bend forward. The key component of scoliosis is rotation, so the spine shows rotational differences when comparing one side to the other. The shoulders may become angulated, and the body may shift to the side, depending on the size and location of the curve.
Treatment
Treatments are based on the type of scoliosis, the degree of curvature, and the age of the patient. Please see the other educational tabs for more information about congenital, neuromuscular, idiopathic, and adult scoliosis.
What is Scoliosis?
Front and back views of a young man with severe scoliosis. He has many of the classic signs of scoliosis: trunk shift to his right and shoulder tilt (right higher than left). When he bends forward, the rib asymmetries are very noticable. This occurs because the right-sided ribs are pushed backwards as his spine rotates to the right. His xrays demonstrate the curves on the right.