What Is Scoliosis, Really? A Spine Surgeon Breaks It Down

Let’s talk about scoliosis, the spinal condition you think you know.

You’ve probably heard that scoliosis means “a curved spine.” Technically, that’s true, but there’s a lot more to it. As a neurosurgeon who treats scoliosis in both teens and adults, I want to break it down in plain English.

So… What Is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis is a three-dimensional curve of the spine. It usually shows up as an S- or C-shaped curve when looking at someone’s back. But it can also involve rotation, where the spine twists. It isn’t always visible to the naked eye, especially early on.

There are different types of scoliosis, but the two most common are:

• Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS):
  This usually shows up around age 10–18 and has no known cause (hence idiopathic). It’s the most common form of scoliosis in teens, especially girls. You can learn more in this YouTube video where I explain it in detail.
  
  

• Adult Degenerative Scoliosis:
  This type develops later in life, often due to arthritis or wear and tear on the spine. It can cause pain, imbalance, and other quality-of-life issues. I cover a real patient case in this video if you want to go deeper.
  How Do You Know If You (or Your Kid) Has Scoliosis?

Some early symptoms of scoliosis include:

• One shoulder sits higher than the other
  
  
• Ribs stick out more on one side
  
  
• Uneven waist or hips
  
  
• Clothes are not hanging evenly
  
  
• Back pain (more common in adults)
  
  

If you see any of these signs, don’t panic. But do follow up with your doctor, who can do a physical exam and likely order an X-ray to measure the curve (called a Cobb angle).

Can Scoliosis Be Treated?

Yes, and no. Note that it doesn’t always mean surgery.

Here’s a general breakdown of typical scoliosis treatments based on different diagnoses: 

• Mild curves (less than 20°): usually monitored with regular checkups.
  
  
• Moderate curves (20°–40°): might require bracing, especially for growing teens.
  
  
• Severe curves (40°+): surgery may be recommended, particularly if the curve is progressing or causing pain.
  
  

Every case is different, which is why personalized care matters so much. If surgery is needed, it’s often a spinal fusion, and yes, I explain how I do that in this Instagram video.

Final Thoughts

Scoliosis doesn’t define you. With the right care, you can live a strong, healthy life. My job is to treat the curve and the person behind it.

This Scoliosis Awareness Month, I’m celebrating all the strong spines out there, curved or not. You’ll even spot new scoliosis tees and a sweatshirt in the shop, each featuring a curved spine design and the reminder that you’re Bent, not Broken. Because that’s exactly how I see my patients: resilient, powerful, and full of true grit.