Is Scoliosis Genetic?

Scoliosis is a term that refers to the curvature of the spine. Instead of having a "straight spine," those who suffer from scoliosis have a spine that has an S shape. Genetics are believed to play a role in who does and does not have scoliosis.

Modern Thoughts

• Scoliosis has been known to run in families. According to the University of Iowa Health Care department, "Heredity and congenital irregularities have emerged as the most probable causes of scoliosis today." Abnormalities at birth or improper development may be the biggest ways heredity plays a role in scoliosis.

Unknown Causes

• While genetics is believed to play a role in scoliosis, more than 80 percent of scoliosis cases are deemed idiopathic. The term idiopathic refers to the source of the condition being unknown.

Other Factors

• While acknowledging that genetics "may" play a role in scoliosis, the Mayo Clinic also cites other sources of the condition. Spinal cord and brain-stem abnormalities also have a hand in patients who have scoliosis.

Signs of Scoliosis

• The most obvious sign of scoliosis is the S shape or curvature of the spine. Other signs may occur around the shoulder and waist areas. One shoulder may appear lower than the other, while one shoulder blade may also protrude out. The waist and hips may also appear out of alignment.

Treatments

• Braces and surgery are the two most common types of treatments for scoliosis. However, wearing braces won't cure scoliosis, but it will prevent the condition from worsening. Electronic stimulants, physical therapy and chiropractic manipulation on the spine are other forms of treatments.