Scoliosis

A lateral curvature of the spine, scoliosis affects boys and girls between the ages of 8 and 18. It is more common with girls. There are several causes of scoliosis, the two most common are congenital and habitual. Congenital scoliosis occurs when someone is born with a lateral curvature of the spine. Habitual causes are environmental or situational depending on the habits of the individual. Carrying backpacks improperly can contribute to a spinal distortion. Poor sitting habits and practicing poor posture can also affect spinal development in children. Signs of scoliosis are a high hip (uneven hips), a high shoulder, the head being off center, head tilt, back and leg pain.