Coping and causes

Living with scoliosis

Most people with scoliosis are able to live normal lives and can do most activities, including exercise and sports.

The condition doesn’t usually cause significant pain or any other health problems and tends to stay the same after you stop growing — but an examination by a GP is advised if it gets any worse.

Having scoliosis or wearing a back brace can be tough and may cause problems with body image and self-esteem, particularly for children and teenagers. A support group, such as Scoliosis Association UK, is a good source of information and support.

Causes of scoliosis

In around eight in every 10 cases, the cause of scoliosis is unknown. This is called idiopathic scoliosis.

Idiopathic scoliosis can’t be prevented and isn’t thought to be linked to things such as bad posture, exercise or diet. Your genes may make you more likely to get it, though, as it sometimes runs in families.

Less commonly, scoliosis may be caused by:

the bones in the spine not forming properly in the womb — this is called congenital scoliosis and is present from birth

an underlying nerve or muscle condition, such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy — this is called neuromuscular scoliosis

wear and tear of the spine with age — this is called degenerative scoliosis, which affects older adults.

See www.nhs.uk/conditions/Scoliosis