Scoliosis is a lateral curvature of the spine. There may be one curve ("C" curve) present or two curves ("S" curve). Scoliosis is technically defined as a lateral curve of the spine greater than 10 degrees. Ten to 20 degrees of curvature is called mild scoliosis, 20-40 degrees is a moderate scoliosis, and greater than 40 degrees of curvature is a severe scoliosis.

Approximately 2-3 million people have scoliosis and there is no cure for the problem. In most cases (approximately 80%), the scoliosis is idiopathic in nature meaning there is no apparent cause. It affects all age groups and males as often as females. Infantile scoliosis affects children at birth. Juvenile scoliosis affect children between age 4 and puberty, adolescent scoliosis affects kids from puberty to adulthood, and there is also a classification of adult onset scoliosis. Female scoliosis patients are more likely to experience a progression of the disease.

Symptoms may include pain and fatigue and in severe cases difficulty with breathing, digestion, and walking.