Scoliosis is a disorder in which there is a sideways curvature to the spine. The curves are often s-shaped or c-shaped. While there is no known cause and people of any age can have this disorder, the most common form of scoliosis (idiopathic) occurs in children during the growth spurt just before puberty. There are several signs & symptoms you should look out for with your child and/or loved ones. Look for uneven shoulders, one shoulder blade that appears more prominent than the other, an uneven waist, or one hip being higher than the other. If a scoliosis curve gets worse, the spine will also rotate or twist, in addition to curving side to side which can cause the ribs on one side of the body to stick out farther than the other. Mild curves can develop without the parent or child knowing it because they appear gradually and usually don’t cause pain. Most cases of scoliosis are mild, but some children develop spine deformities that continue to get more severe as they grow. Severe scoliosis can be disabling. An especially severe spinal curve can reduce the amount of space within the chest, making it difficult for the lungs to function properly. Seek medical attention if you notice signs or symptoms of scoliosis in your child. by Gina Stallone