Causes

In 80% of patients, the cause of scoliosis is unknown. Such cases are called idiopathic scoliosis. (Idiopathic simply means without a known cause.) Idiopathic scoliosis is thought to be due to multiple, poorly understood inherited factors, most likely from the mother's side. However, the severity often varies widely among family members who have the condition, suggesting that other factors must be present.

Researchers have not been able to identify the specific genetic abnormalities that make a young person susceptible to spinal distortion. Inherited physical abnormalities, problems in coordination, abnormalities in the central nervous system, and other inherited factors may play some role either alone or in combination with other conditions to produce scoliosis.

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Physical Abnormalities. Researchers are investigating possible physical abnormalities that may cause imbalances in bones or muscles that would lead to scoliosis. Among them are the following:

• Imbalances in Muscles around the Vertebrae. Some research suggests that imbalances in the muscles around the vertebrae may make children susceptible to spinal distortions as they grow.
• High Arches. One study showed a higher incidence of abnormally high arches in the feet in people with idiopathic scoliosis, suggesting that altered balance may be a factor in certain cases.

Problems in Coordination. Some experts are looking at inherited defects in perception or coordination that may cause asymmetrical growth in the spine of some children with scoliosis.

Genetic Abnormalities in the Central Nervous System. Genetic defects that cause altered processing in the brain may play a role in producing abnormalities in the growing spine. For example, interesting research has implicated low levels of melatonin, a hormone secreted in the pineal gland in brain. Melatonin is involved with sleep and growth. Researchers speculate that genetic factors that cause reduced blood levels of melatonin may adversely affect muscle tone and development during sleep, perhaps contributing to scoliosis.