What is scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine. Here's what it is, how it's measured, and what the signs look like.
A sideways curve, usually found in growth.
Scoliosis is diagnosed when the spine curves sideways by 10 degrees or more, measured using the Cobb angle on an X-ray. It most often appears during the rapid growth of adolescence, though it can be present from childhood or develop in adulthood. Around 80% of cases are idiopathic — meaning there is no single identified cause.
Doctors also use the Risser sign, a measure of remaining skeletal growth, to help predict how likely a curve is to progress. Curves found early, while growth remains, generally respond best to non-surgical management such as bracing.
Common Signs
- Uneven shoulders or shoulder blades
- One hip appearing higher than the other
- A visible curve or asymmetry in the spine
- Uneven waistline or leaning to one side
- One side of the rib cage more prominent when bending forward
Evidence-informed
Our approach follows published research on non-surgical scoliosis management. See our Resources page for citations.
Non-surgical first
For many curves, bracing offers a path to avoid or delay surgery. See our Bracing page to compare brace types.
Nationwide fitters
Every fitter in our network is AHPCSA-registered and SpineCor accredited. Find a fitter near you.
Frequently asked questions.
What is scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine, usually diagnosed in childhood or early adolescence. Curves are measured in degrees using the Cobb angle — the angle between the most tilted vertebrae at the top and bottom of the curve on an X-ray. Most cases are "idiopathic," meaning no single cause is identified.
What is the Cobb angle?
The Cobb angle is the standard measurement used to grade the severity of a scoliosis curve on an X-ray. A curve under 10 degrees is not classified as scoliosis; larger angles guide whether monitoring, bracing or surgical referral is appropriate.
What is the Risser sign?
The Risser sign grades how much skeletal growth remains by looking at the growth plate of the pelvis (iliac crest) on an X-ray, scored 0-5. It helps predict how likely a curve is to progress further — lower scores mean more growth remaining, and typically a higher chance of progression.
How does scoliosis bracing work?
A brace applies gentle, corrective pressure to guide the spine toward a straighter alignment while a child is still growing. SpineCor is a dynamic, flexible bracing system, differing from older rigid braces by allowing more natural movement while still applying corrective force.
Can adults develop or be treated for scoliosis?
Yes. While scoliosis is most commonly diagnosed and braced during adolescent growth, adults can have pre-existing curves that progress over time, or develop degenerative scoliosis later in life. Bracing and management approaches for adults differ from those for growing children — see our Process page for how assessment differs by age.
Concerned about a scoliosis curve?
Book a consultation with your nearest accredited fitter and find out if bracing is right for you or your child.