Strong, flexible muscles help maintain these curves. Scoliosis is a sideways curve of the spine. Scoliosis in children or adolescents can be treated and controlled. It is important to identify this problem early so proper treatment can begin. Abnormal curves are easy to detect.
Most schools provide routine scoliosis screenings.
If the curves are allowed to worsen, pain and medical problems may result. If you are concerned that your child may have scoliosis, see a healthcare provider for evaluation. Mild curves usually do not need treatment. More severe curves may need to be corrected by a brace or surgery. Scoliosis found in adults is usually caused by poor posture, muscle spasm in the back, or one leg that is shorter than the other.