Scoliosis is a lateral curvature in the normally straight vertical line of the spine (backbone).  It is usually accompanied by twisting deformities of the vertebral body.

Causes

The most common form of scoliosis is 'idiopathic' (over 80% of the cases), meaning the cause is unknown. 
Congenital scoliosis: A result of a bone abnormality present at birth.
Degenerative scoliosis: This may result from traumatic bone collapse, previous major back surgery or osteoporosis.

Symptoms

Scoliosis is usually painless. In the early stages, the curve is too subtle to be noticed.

One shoulder appears to be higher than the other shoulder
Protruding shoulder blades
Fatigue after prolonged sitting or standing
 

Treatment

Health News for scoliosis are based on the degree of curvature, the likelihood of significant progression, and the presence of pain. Treatments include:
Bracing is the usual treatment choice for adolescents who have a spinal curve between 25-40 degrees. The purpose of bracing is to halt progression of the curve. It may provide a temporary correction, but usually the curve will assume its original magnitude when bracing is eliminated.
Those who have curves beyond 40-50 degrees are often considered for surgery. The goal is to make sure the curve does not get worse, but surgery does not perfectly straighten the spine. During the procedure, metallic implants are utilized to correct some of the curvature and hold it in the correct position until bone graft, placed at the time of surgery, consolidates and creates a rigid fusion in the area of the curve.