Idiopathic scoliosis
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In nearly all cases there is no known cause for scoliosis. This type of scoliosis is called idiopathic scoliosis.
Idiopathic scoliosis can be described as early onset or late onset. It is surprisingly common although most patients need no treatment or do not realise that they have a curved spine. Observation is the mainstay of management in most patients, and bracing or plaster casts are sometimes used. Surgery is reserved for those curves that are symptomatic or are at high risk of becoming symptomatic because of the size that they have reached. Although not too much emphasis is placed on actual sizes of curves, generally any progressive or symptomatic curve may eventually be considered for surgery. This decision of course depends on many other factors such as sex, age, position and size of curve, stage of development and aesthetics.
If you would like to talk further about any aspect of scoliosis, SAUK is here to help; please call our helpline or contact us via post or e-mail.