Health encyclopaedia - Alphabetical Topic List

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Scoliosis

Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine to one side. The curvature varies from slight to severe. The spine can bend either way at any point along the spine. The chest area (thoracic scoliosis) and the lower part of the back (lumbar scoliosis) are the most common regions.

Scoliosis can develop at any time during childhood and adolescence. It is more common in girls than boys, most commonly occurring at the start of adolescence. Scoliosis is rarely present at birth however it can develop in infancy or early childhood. The reason may be unknown or may be caused by a rare childhood disorder.