Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) affects about 3% of the population, and treatment depends on the size of the scoliotic curve. Unfortunately, current data on the natural history of this condition is limited, and most of the available information comes from a small number of studies at the University of Iowa.

Patients with untreated scoliosis can function well as adults: they can get a job, start a family, and enjoy active aging. However, delaying treatment can lead to more serious problems, such as back pain and difficulty breathing, especially in people with larger thoracic curves. In addition to physical symptoms, scoliosis can cause significant deformation of the body, which also has aesthetic consequences that should not be ignored.

For parents and children facing this diagnosis, it is crucial to understand several important issues, such as:

• When does scoliosis usually get worse and what should you pay special attention to in certain life periods?
• What are the consequences of the decision to avoid treatment?
• Is pregnancy in women with scoliosis risky and can it cause the condition to worsen?
• Do people with scoliosis have to suffer pain throughout their lives?
• What physical activities or sports can people with scoliosis practice?

Given the potential consequences, it is crucial that everyone affected by this condition be informed and consider the options available to them.

This topic deserves attention, because a good understanding of scoliosis can significantly improve the quality of life.

For more detailed answers to the above questions, we invite you to familiarize yourself with our previous blogs, in which we will clarify all aspects of this important topic.