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What Causes Scoliosis?
In most people with scoliosis, the cause is not known. In some cases, there is a known cause. Doctors classify curves as: Nonstructural, which is when the spine is structurally normal and the curve is temporary. In these cases, the doctor will try to find and correct the cause. Structural, this is when the spine has a fixed curve. The cause could be a disease, injury, infection, or birth defect.

How Is Scoliosis Diagnosed?
Doctors use a medical and family history, physical exam, and tests when checking a person for scoliosis. An x ray of the spine can help the doctor decide if a person has scoliosis. The x ray lets the doctor measure the curve in degrees (such as 25 degrees) and see its location, shape, and pattern.

How Is Scoliosis Treated?
Treatment for scoliosis is based on: The person's age How much more he or she is likely to grow The degree and pattern of the curve The type of scoliosis. The doctor may recommend observation, bracing, or surgery. Observation: The doctor will check every 4 to 6 months to see if the curve is getting better or worse. Observation is used for those who have a curve of less than 25 degrees and are still growing. Bracing: Doctors may advise wearing a brace to stop a curve from getting worse. Bracing may be used when: The person is still growing and has a curve of more than 25 to 30 degrees. The person is still growing and has a curve between 20 and 29 degrees that is getting worse. The person has at least 2 years of growth remaining and has a curve that is between 20 and 29 degrees. If a girl, she should not have started having her monthly periods yet.