If you know that you have scoliosis, there are several things to take into consideration when discussing treatment options with your doctor:

• Degree and extent of your curve – How severe is your scoliosis and how does it affect your lifestyle?
• Your spinal maturity – Is your spine still growing and changing?
• Location of your curve – Do you have a thoracic (upper spine) curve, a thoracolumbar (middle spine) curve or lumbar (lower spine) curve?
• Potential for progression – Do you have a curve that is likely to worsen?

It is important that you discuss the benefits and risks of scoliosis surgery with your doctor. Only you and your doctor can decide if scoliosis surgery is right for you.

Next: Surgery: What to Expect