The Different Types of Scoliosis & Their Common Causes

  • September 1, 2026

If you or someone you love has recently been told they have scoliosis, it’s completely normal to have questions — and maybe even some worry. The word itself can sound intimidating, but understanding what scoliosis actually is, and what causes it, can go a long way toward easing your mind. Here at Tri-States Chiropractic in Dubuque, IA, Dr. Peter Lynch works with patients of all ages who are navigating this condition, and one of the most common things he hears is, “I wish someone had explained this to me sooner.” That’s exactly what this article is here to do.

Scoliosis is more common than most people realize, and it exists on a wide spectrum — from mild curves that require only monitoring, to more significant curves that benefit from active care. Knowing the different types of scoliosis and where they come from is the first step toward making informed decisions about your health.

What Is Scoliosis?

Scoliosis defined: Scoliosis is an abnormal lateral (sideways) curvature of the spine. Instead of running straight down the center of the back, the spine curves to one side — sometimes forming a gentle “C” shape, and other times a more complex “S” shape. In many cases, the spine also rotates, which can affect the appearance of the rib cage, shoulders, and hips.

A spinal curve is generally considered scoliosis when it measures 10 degrees or more on an imaging study called a Cobb angle measurement. Curves smaller than this are typically classified as spinal asymmetry rather than true scoliosis. The condition can affect children, teenagers, and adults alike, and its causes vary significantly depending on the type.

  1. The Main Types of Scoliosis

  2. Common Causes by Type

  3. Signs & Symptoms to Watch For

  4. How Chiropractic Care Fits In

  5. Practical Tips for Living with Scoliosis

  6. When to See a Chiropractor

  7. Scoliosis Types at a Glance

  8. Myths vs. Facts About Scoliosis

  9. Final Thoughts

The Main Types of Scoliosis

Not all scoliosis is the same. Clinicians categorize scoliosis into several distinct types based on its origin, the age of onset, and what’s driving the spinal curve. Understanding these categories helps explain why one person’s experience with scoliosis can look so different from another’s.

Idiopathic Scoliosis

Idiopathic scoliosis is by far the most common form, accounting for approximately 80% of all diagnosed cases. The word “idiopathic” simply means the cause is not yet fully understood. It is further divided by age group: infantile (birth to age 3), juvenile (ages 3–10), adolescent (ages 10–18), and adult idiopathic scoliosis. Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is the most frequently seen variety, particularly in girls during growth spurts.

Although the root cause remains unknown, research suggests that genetics play a meaningful role. If a parent or sibling has scoliosis, the likelihood of developing it increases. Researchers continue to investigate factors like bone density, muscle imbalances, and neurological differences that may contribute to curve progression.

Congenital Scoliosis

Congenital scoliosis is present at birth and occurs when the vertebrae in the spine do not form properly during fetal development. Some vertebrae may be only partially formed, fused together abnormally, or missing entirely. Because the structural abnormality is built into the bones themselves, congenital scoliosis is typically detected early — sometimes even before birth via prenatal imaging.

This type of scoliosis is not caused by anything a parent did during pregnancy. It is a developmental variation that occurs during the early weeks of fetal growth. Congenital scoliosis is often associated with other health considerations, particularly involving the heart and kidneys, which is why comprehensive evaluation is important when this type is identified.

Neuromuscular Scoliosis

Neuromuscular scoliosis develops as a secondary result of a neurological or muscular condition. When the muscles and nerves that support the spine do not function properly, the spine may gradually curve over time due to imbalanced muscle support. Conditions commonly associated with neuromuscular scoliosis include cerebral palsy, spinal muscular atrophy, muscular dystrophy, and spina bifida.

Curves in neuromuscular scoliosis tend to be longer and more sweeping than those seen in idiopathic cases. They often progress more rapidly, particularly during periods of growth, and can significantly impact a person’s ability to sit, stand, and breathe comfortably.

Degenerative (Adult) Scoliosis

Degenerative scoliosis, sometimes called de novo scoliosis, develops in adulthood — typically after age 40 — and is caused by the wear and breakdown of the spinal discs and joints over time. As the discs lose height unevenly and the facet joints deteriorate, the spine can begin to tilt and curve in a way it never did during childhood. This is one of the more common types seen in older adults, and it frequently comes with symptoms like low back pain, stiffness, and sometimes leg pain from nerve compression.

This type is distinct from adult idiopathic scoliosis, which refers to a curve that began in adolescence and simply carried forward into adulthood. Degenerative scoliosis, by contrast, is new curve development related to aging and spinal degeneration.

Functional Scoliosis

Functional scoliosis — sometimes called non-structural scoliosis — is a curve that develops not because of a problem with the spine itself, but because of something else in the body that causes the spine to compensate. Common causes include a leg length discrepancy, muscle spasm, or inflammation in a nearby area. Importantly, in functional scoliosis, the spine is structurally normal — the curve is a postural adaptation.

The good news is that functional scoliosis is often reversible when the underlying cause is addressed. This is one area where conservative care can make a particularly meaningful difference.

Common Causes by Type

Understanding what causes scoliosis depends heavily on which type you’re dealing with. Idiopathic scoliosis, as noted, has no single identified cause — but genetic predisposition appears to be a significant contributing factor. Congenital scoliosis is rooted in embryological development and typically occurs during the third to sixth week of pregnancy when the spine is forming.

Neuromuscular scoliosis is a downstream effect of an already-existing condition affecting the nervous system or muscles. Degenerative scoliosis stems from the cumulative effects of aging, disc dehydration, and facet joint arthritis. Functional scoliosis arises from compensatory patterns that force the spine out of alignment.

One important point worth emphasizing: scoliosis is not caused by carrying heavy backpacks, poor posture, or playing sports. These are longstanding myths that Dr. Peter Lynch and the team at Tri-States Chiropractic in Dubuque are happy to address, because they can lead to unnecessary guilt and confusion for families navigating a new diagnosis.

Signs & Symptoms to Watch For

Scoliosis is often silent in its early stages, especially in children and teenagers. The curve may be gradual enough that no pain is present, which is one reason why school screenings and routine wellness exams are so valuable. That said, there are physical signs that can indicate scoliosis is worth evaluating.

Visually, you might notice that one shoulder sits higher than the other, one shoulder blade appears more prominent or “winged,” the waist appears uneven, or one hip seems to protrude more than the other. In more significant curves, a visible “hump” may appear on one side of the rib cage when the person bends forward — this is assessed in what’s known as the Adams Forward Bend Test, a common initial screening tool.

In adults, degenerative scoliosis is more likely to present with pain. Low back ache, stiffness in the morning, fatigue with prolonged standing, and radiating pain or numbness into the legs are all potential symptoms. These occur because the curving spine can compress nearby nerves and cause uneven load distribution across the joints and discs.

How Chiropractic Care Fits In

Chiropractic care is a conservative, non-surgical, drug-free approach to managing musculoskeletal conditions — and scoliosis is an area where it may offer meaningful support, depending on the type and severity of the curve. Dr. Peter Lynch at Tri-States Chiropractic takes an individualized approach to each patient, beginning with a thorough evaluation to understand the nature of the curve, any contributing factors, and what the person’s goals are.

For patients with mild to moderate idiopathic or functional scoliosis, chiropractic adjustments may help improve spinal mobility, reduce associated muscle tension, and support better overall posture and function. Evidence from the chiropractic and rehabilitation literature suggests that manual care and specific exercises can help manage pain and improve quality of life for scoliosis patients, though it’s important to understand that chiropractic care does not straighten a structural scoliotic curve. The goal is to optimize how the body functions within its current structure.

Scoliosis-specific exercise protocols, which focus on strengthening the muscles that support the spine and improving proprioception (the body’s sense of position), may also be incorporated as part of a broader care plan. For patients with more complex presentations — including neuromuscular or congenital scoliosis — Dr. Peter Lynch coordinates care appropriately and communicates with other healthcare providers when needed to ensure patients receive well-rounded support.

For adults dealing with degenerative scoliosis, chiropractic care can be particularly helpful in managing the pain and stiffness that accompany age-related spinal changes. Gentle mobilization, soft tissue therapy, and postural guidance can make a real difference in daily comfort and function.

Practical Tips for Living with Scoliosis

Whether you’re managing a mild curve or supporting a child through a scoliosis diagnosis, there are practical habits that can help you feel your best. Staying active is one of the most important things you can do. Low-impact activities like swimming, walking, and yoga are generally well-tolerated and help maintain the strength and flexibility that support spinal health.

Paying attention to your posture throughout the day matters too. While posture habits don’t cause scoliosis, poor ergonomics can contribute to muscle fatigue and discomfort — especially in adults who already have a degree of spinal imbalance. Setting up your workspace so that your monitor is at eye level, your chair supports your lower back, and your feet are flat on the floor can reduce unnecessary strain.

Sleep position can also affect how you feel. Many scoliosis patients find that sleeping on their side with a supportive pillow between their knees reduces nighttime discomfort. Mattress firmness matters — neither too soft nor too rigid tends to work best for spinal support.

Finally, staying consistent with any exercise or stretching recommendations provided by your care team is essential. Sporadic effort rarely yields lasting benefit. Building a simple, sustainable daily routine is far more effective than occasional intensive sessions.

When to See a Chiropractor

If you or your child has been diagnosed with scoliosis — or if you’ve noticed any of the visual signs described earlier — it’s worth scheduling an evaluation. Early assessment allows for earlier intervention, which is particularly important in growing children where curves can progress during growth spurts.

For adults, if you’re experiencing persistent low back pain, uneven posture, or leg pain that hasn’t responded to basic self-care, a chiropractic evaluation can help determine whether spinal changes are contributing to your symptoms. Many people in the Dubuque, IA area find that conservative care provides meaningful relief without the need for medications or surgical intervention.

There are also situations where referral to another specialist is the appropriate first step. If a curve is severe (generally considered 45–50 degrees or more), if there is rapid progression in a growing child, if neurological symptoms are worsening, or if you are experiencing difficulty breathing due to rib cage involvement, medical evaluation by an orthopedic specialist or spine surgeon should not be delayed. Dr. Peter Lynch will always be straightforward with you about when chiropractic care is the right fit and when additional evaluation is warranted.

Scoliosis Types at a Glance

Type of Scoliosis

Age of Onset

Primary Cause

Key Characteristics

Idiopathic

Any age; most common in adolescents

Unknown; likely genetic

Most common type; no underlying disease

Congenital

Present at birth

Vertebral malformation during fetal development

Detected early; may affect other organ systems

Neuromuscular

Childhood or adolescence

Underlying neurological or muscular condition

Long, sweeping curves; often progresses quickly

Degenerative

Adults, typically 40+

Disc and joint degeneration from aging

Associated with pain, stiffness, and nerve symptoms

Functional

Any age

Compensatory response (e.g., leg length difference)

Structurally normal spine; often reversible

Myths vs. Facts About Scoliosis

Myth: Heavy backpacks cause scoliosis.

Fact: Research does not support a causal link between carrying backpacks and the development of scoliosis. While heavy loads can contribute to general back discomfort and poor posture habits, they do not cause the structural spinal curves associated with scoliosis. The origin of idiopathic scoliosis is far more complex and likely genetic.

Myth: Scoliosis always causes pain.

Fact: Many people with scoliosis — particularly children and teenagers with mild to moderate curves — experience no pain at all. Scoliosis is frequently discovered during routine school screenings or physical exams. Pain is more common in adult scoliosis, particularly the degenerative type, where nerve compression and joint arthritis play a role.

Myth: Chiropractic care can straighten a scoliotic spine.

Fact: Chiropractic care does not reverse or eliminate a structural scoliotic curve. What it can do is help manage associated pain, improve spinal mobility, reduce muscle tension, and support better function. It is one part of a broader conservative care approach, not a cure. Dr. Peter Lynch is transparent about realistic expectations from the very first visit.

Myth: Scoliosis only affects teenagers.

Fact: While adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is the most commonly diagnosed type, scoliosis can develop at any stage of life. Degenerative scoliosis in older adults is a growing concern as the population ages. Congenital scoliosis is present from birth. Scoliosis does not discriminate by age.

Myth: If scoliosis isn’t treated immediately, it will always get worse.

Fact: The majority of scoliosis curves — particularly mild ones — do not progress significantly. Curve progression is influenced by factors like the size of the curve at diagnosis, skeletal maturity, and the type of scoliosis. Regular monitoring is important, but not every diagnosis requires aggressive intervention. Many people live full, active lives with well-managed scoliosis.

Final Thoughts

A scoliosis diagnosis can feel overwhelming at first, but knowledge is one of the most powerful tools you have. Understanding the different types of scoliosis — and what drives each one — helps you ask better questions, make more informed decisions, and feel more in control of your own health journey.

Here in Dubuque, IA, the team at Tri-States Chiropractic is committed to helping patients of all ages navigate musculoskeletal conditions with clarity and compassion. Dr. Peter Lynch believes that every patient deserves a thorough explanation of their condition, honest guidance about what care can and cannot offer, and a personalized plan that fits their life. Whether you’re a parent seeking answers for your child, an adult managing a new diagnosis, or someone who has been living with scoliosis for years and is ready to explore conservative care options, Tri-States Chiropractic is here to support you.

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Reach out to the team at Tri-States Chiropractic in Dubuque and take the first step toward understanding and managing your spinal health with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can scoliosis go away on its own?

In most adults, scoliosis does not resolve on its own. In children and adolescents, small curves sometimes stabilize after skeletal maturity is reached, but they rarely correct without intervention. Regular monitoring is the best way to track whether a curve is stable or progressing.

Is scoliosis hereditary?

Research suggests there is a genetic component to idiopathic scoliosis, the most common form. Having a parent or sibling with scoliosis increases your likelihood of developing it, though it is not guaranteed. Genetics appear to be one of several contributing factors.

At what age is scoliosis most commonly diagnosed?

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis is most commonly diagnosed between ages 10 and 18, often during growth spurts. However, congenital scoliosis is present at birth, and degenerative scoliosis typically emerges in adults over 40. Scoliosis can appear at any stage of life.

What is the Adams Forward Bend Test?

The Adams Forward Bend Test is a simple screening tool used by clinicians and school nurses to check for scoliosis. The patient bends forward at the waist with arms hanging down, and the examiner looks for asymmetry in the rib cage or spine. A visible “rib hump” on one side may suggest a rotational component to the spinal curve.

Can adults develop scoliosis for the first time?

Yes. Degenerative scoliosis is a type that develops in adulthood — typically after age 40 — due to age-related wear on the spinal discs and joints. It is a new curve that forms during adulthood and is distinct from curves that began in childhood and persisted into adult years.

Is it safe to exercise with scoliosis?

For most people with scoliosis, regular physical activity is not only safe but encouraged. Low-impact exercises like swimming, walking, and yoga can help maintain spinal muscle strength and flexibility. It’s always a good idea to consult with your care provider before starting a new exercise program to ensure it’s appropriate for your specific curve and condition.

TL;DR

  • Scoliosis is an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine and comes in several distinct types, including idiopathic, congenital, neuromuscular, degenerative, and functional.

  • The most common type — idiopathic scoliosis — has no known single cause, though genetics are believed to play a role; scoliosis is not caused by poor posture or heavy backpacks.

  • Symptoms range from no pain at all (common in children) to significant back pain and nerve symptoms (more common in adult degenerative scoliosis).

  • Chiropractic care can help manage pain, improve mobility, and support better function, though it does not structurally correct a scoliotic curve.

  • Early evaluation is valuable — if you notice postural asymmetry or have been diagnosed with scoliosis, Dr. Peter Lynch at Tri-States Chiropractic in Dubuque, IA can help you understand your options and build a personalized care plan.

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