Scoliosis refers to an abnormal sideways curve of the spine measuring 10 degrees or more on an X-ray. While not a disease itself, scoliosis can arise from many different causes — from birth-related spinal malformations to neuromuscular conditions or natural degeneration with age. Understanding the different types of scoliosis helps patients and parents make informed decisions about monitoring, treatment, and long-term care.
Structural vs. Nonstructural Scoliosis
Scoliosis is generally grouped into two main categories:
Structural Scoliosis
The most common and the most serious type.
- The spine curves and rotates, making the condition three-dimensional.
- The curvature does not correct itself, even when lying down.
- Requires medical monitoring or treatment to prevent progression.
Nonstructural (Functional) Scoliosis
A temporary spinal curve caused by another issue (such as muscle imbalance, leg-length difference, or inflammation).
- The spine itself is structurally normal.
- The curve usually straightens when bending forward or lying down.
- Treating the underlying cause typically resolves the curvature.
Main Types of Structural Scoliosis
1. Idiopathic Scoliosis (Most Common)
Idiopathic scoliosis makes up about 80% of all cases, mostly affecting older children and teens.
Although the exact cause is unknown, genetics and growth patterns play a major role.
Age-based subtypes
- Infantile (0–3 years) — more common in boys; many cases resolve on their own.
- Juvenile (4–10 years) — equal between boys and girls; higher risk of progression.
- Adolescent (10–18 years) — the most common form; affects girls more than boys.
- Adult idiopathic — curves that were present during adolescence and continued into adulthood.
Treatment may include
- Observation
- Bracing
- Physical therapy
- Surgery for severe or rapidly progressing curves
2. Congenital Scoliosis
A rare type present at birth due to spinal bones that didn’t form normally in the womb.
This can include:
- Partially formed vertebrae
- Missing vertebrae
- Vertebrae fused together
Because the abnormal bones grow unevenly, the curve can progress quickly. Many moderate or severe cases require surgery at a young age.
3. Neuromuscular Scoliosis
This type develops when the muscles surrounding the spine are weak, imbalanced, or unable to coordinate properly. It is commonly associated with conditions such as:
- Cerebral palsy
- Muscular dystrophy
- Spina bifida
- Spinal muscular atrophy
- Spinal cord injury
- Marfan syndrome
Curves tend to be larger, stiffer, and progress faster than idiopathic scoliosis. Bracing may help with comfort and posture, but surgery is often needed for severe cases.
4. Degenerative (Adult-Onset) Scoliosis
Also known as adult de novo scoliosis, this type develops later in life due to:
- Disc degeneration
- Arthritis
- Spinal stenosis
- Osteoporosis
- Age-related wear and tear
Most commonly found in adults over 40, it often causes lower-back pain, leg symptoms, and posture changes. Treatment may include physical therapy, pain management, injections, bracing, or surgery for severe or disabling cases.
Additional Subtypes of Adult Scoliosis
Traumatic Scoliosis
Occurs after a spinal injury or fracture that alters normal alignment.
Pathological Scoliosis
Develops when tumors, cysts, or infections weaken the spine, causing it to bend.
Residual Idiopathic Scoliosis
Idiopathic scoliosis that began in adolescence but continued to progress into adulthood.
Scoliosis by Age Group
Early-Onset Scoliosis (0–10 years)
Includes congenital, neuromuscular, syndromic, and idiopathic cases diagnosed before age 10.
Early detection is critical, because untreated curves can affect:
- Lung development
- Heart function
- Chest shape
Treatments may involve casting, bracing, growing rods, or early surgery.
Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (10–18 years)
The most common form, accounting for up to 80% of all scoliosis diagnoses.
Often discovered around puberty during:
- School screenings
- Sports physicals
- Routine pediatric checkups
Because this is a period of rapid growth, monitoring and early treatment are essential.
Adult Scoliosis
Adults may have:
- Residual idiopathic scoliosis from childhood
- De novo scoliosis from degeneration
- Traumatic or pathological scoliosis from injury or disease
Treatment varies from strengthening and physical therapy to bracing or surgery, depending on symptoms and severity.
Could You or Your Child Have Scoliosis? Signs to Watch For
Contact a doctor if you notice any of the following:
- Uneven shoulders or hips
- One shoulder blade sticking out more
- Clothes hanging unevenly
- Visible curve in the spine
- Rib hump when bending forward
- Back pain (more common in adults than children)
Early evaluation leads to better outcomes — especially during growth spurts.