Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves abnormally.
It is typically more common in girls than boys and it affects both children and adults.
When looking from the back, a person's spine should be straight.
​However, in a person with scoliosis, the spine curves progressively as shown on the left.

Different types of scoliosis

1) Idopathic scoliosis
This is the MOST COMMON type of scoliosis. "Idiopathic" means the cause is unknown, although research is increasingly suggesting a possible genetic link, ie. it is hereditary.

a) Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS)

The majority of AIS occur in adolescence, around puberty age. Girls around 10-11 years old, boys 13-14 years old. AIS is more common in girls than boys.

b) Infantile scoliosis ( < 4 years old ) & Juvenile Scoliosis ( 4 -10 years old )

Although less common, scoliosis can happen at a younger age. Due to the early occurance of scoliosis in these kids, there is a very high risk that the scoliosis will get worse as they grow. It is crucial that they are checked and if needed, treated as soon as possible.
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c) Adult Degenerative Scoliosis (ADS)

Adults that were diagnosed with AIS when they were younger may have problems as they get older, such as chronic low back pain. In certain cases, the scoliosis may be stable or progress and get worse. In adults with a previously stable scoliosis, the wear and tear on the spinal joints as a person age may worsen the scoliosis, resulting in Adult Degenerative Scoliosis. ADS have a high risk of progression.

d) De-Novo Scoliosis

Some adults may have no prior scoliosis. However, due to wear and tear and spinal degeneration, a scoliosis develops with advancing age.

2. Non-Idiopathic Scoliosis

Scoliosis may also be caused by syringomyelia, neurofibromatosis, various connective tissue and neurological disorders, congenital bone deformity, tumours, etc.