Scoliosis Association UK has more information about the different types of scoliosis. wear and tear of the spine with age вЂ“ this is called degenerative scoliosis, which affects older adults.an underlying nerve or muscle condition, such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy вЂ“ this is called neuromuscular scoliosis.the bones in the spine not forming properly in the womb вЂ“ this is called congenital scoliosis and is present from birth.Less commonly, scoliosis may be caused by: Your genes may make you more likely to get it though, as it sometimes runs in families. Idiopathic scoliosis cannot be prevented and is not thought to be linked to things such as bad posture, exercise or diet. In around 8 in every 10 cases, the cause of scoliosis is unknown. These groups are a good source of information and support, and they may be able to put you in touch with people in a similar situation to you. You may find it useful to contact a support group, such as Scoliosis Association UK. Having scoliosis or wearing a back brace can be tough and may cause problems with body image and self-esteem, particularly for children and teenagers. The condition does not usually cause significant pain or any other health problems, and tends to stay the same after you stop growing вЂ“ see a GP if it gets any worse. Most people with scoliosis are able to live normal lives and can do most activities, including exercise and sports. Read more about treatments for scoliosis in children and treatments for scoliosis in adults. It's not clear whether back exercises help improve scoliosis, but general exercise is good for overall health and should not be avoided unless advised by your doctor.

Adults may need treatment to relieve pain, such as painkillers, spinal injections and, very occasionally, surgery.

Sometimes surgery may be needed to control the growth of the spine until an operation to straighten it can be done when they stop growing.

Older children may wear a back brace to stop the curve getting worse until they stop growing.

A plaster cast or plastic brace may be fitted to their back to stop the curve getting worse as they grow.

Babies and toddlers may not need treatment as the curve might improve over time.

Many people will not need any treatment and only a small number will need to have surgery on their spine. Treatment for scoliosis depends on your age, how severe the curve is, and whether it's likely to get worse with time.

If you're diagnosed with scoliosis, you should see a specialist to discuss treatment options. The GP will examine your back and can refer you to a hospital doctor for help with diagnosis if they suspect scoliosis.ДЄn X-ray of your back will be carried out in hospital to check whether your spine is curved and how severe the curve is. It's unlikely that there's anything seriously wrong, but it's best to get it checked out. See a GP if you think you or your child has scoliosis. This is usually more common in adults with the condition. Some people with scoliosis may also have back pain.

Lateral curvature of the spine