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Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine.
Some curvature in the spine is normal — even necessary. When abnormal or exaggerated spinal curves develop, we call it scoliosis.
If scoliosis goes untreated, it could impact growth, development, and how the organs in the chest function.
Treatment can help.
Scoliosis is sometimes treated with observation or bracing. Sometimes corrective surgery is advised.
6-9 million
Americans are living with scoliosis.*
Girls are
10x more likely
to develop scoliosis than boys.*
10-15 years old
is the primary age to develop scoliosis.*
Josephine is Medtronic's scoliosis patient mascot. She's here to help patients and families like you navigate your scoliosis journey.
Kelsea was 8 years old when a curvature of her spine started restricting her lung development. She had surgery to straighten her spine with rods, screws, and donated tissue. Now Kelsey is a family therapist and does Crossfit.
Jamiah’s scoliosis took several evaluations before she was diagnosed. By then she needed surgery. She says it was physically and emotionally taxing, but found support from comforting. Now she is an advocate for other kids with scoliosis.
Rachel knew she had a slight curvature as a teen but learned it had gotten much worse when she started having pain at age 22. She was excited to be the first patient ever treated with the Mazor™ X robotic guidance system. Now she’s back to work and almost totally pain-free.
National Scoliosis Foundation, June 2007.