- Root cause
- Unknown / genetic growth factors — no single cause identified.
- Spinal rotation
- 3D vertebral rotation present — a fixed structural curve.
- Primary treatment
- Schroth exercises, rigid bracing during growth, Cobb-angle monitoring.
- Product referral focus
- Schroth books, biofeedback wearables, medical spine decompression gear.
Scoliosis 101
Understanding Scoliosis: A Complete Guide for Patients & Families
Reliable, medically reviewed insights into spinal curvature, diagnosis, treatment options and daily care.
2–3%
of the population lives with scoliosis
10°+
Cobb angle needed for a clinical diagnosis
80%
of cases are adolescent idiopathic scoliosis
Early
detection makes bracing and exercise far more effective
Knowledge modules
Every module links out to its primary medical source so you can read the original guidance.
Medical source · NHS — Scoliosis OverviewRead original source at NHS
Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine that forms a C-shape or S-shape when seen from behind. It most often appears during the growth spurt just before puberty, though it can develop at any age.
- Structural scoliosis — a fixed curve with vertebral rotation. It does not straighten when you bend or lie down and needs monitoring.
- Functional (non-structural) scoliosis — the spine is anatomically normal but appears curved because of muscle spasm, pain or a leg-length difference. It usually resolves when the underlying cause is treated.
Idiopathic vs. Functional scoliosis
A two-step self-screening quiz and a side-by-side comparison to help you tell structural (idiopathic) curves apart from postural (functional) ones.
Two-step self-screening
Step 1 of 2Based on the Adam's forward bend test — a quick self-screen, not a diagnosis.
1. Adam's forward bend test — what happens to the curve?
Bend forward at the hips with knees straight, arms hanging. Ask someone to look along your back.
2. Which description fits your situation better?
Think about when the asymmetry appears and whether it changes during the day.
Side-by-side comparison
- Root cause
- Bad posture, pelvic tilt, leg-length discrepancy or muscle spasm.
- Spinal rotation
- No structural rotation — the curve is apparent, not fixed.
- Primary treatment
- Posture correction, pelvic alignment, physical therapy, insoles.
- Product referral focus
- Posture corrector braces, orthopedic insoles, foam rollers, ergonomic seating.
Interpreting your result & when to see a clinician
This screening guide is educational only. Only an X-ray measuring the Cobb angle can confirm whether a curve is structural. Always discuss the result with your clinician.
Where to go next
View recommended braces
Posture correctors, night-time braces and compression garments.
BrowseBrowse Schroth exercise books
Curated titles on scoliosis-specific exercise and daily care.
BrowsePatients guide
Exercise routines, bracing tips and everyday self-care.
OpenEducational content only — not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a qualified clinician about your spine.