Final answer:
Scoliosis is an abnormal, lateral curvature of the vertebral column. It is most common among girls and tends to worsen during adolescent growth spurts. Treatment options include observation, bracing, or surgery.
Step-by-step explanation:
Scoliosis is an abnormal, lateral curvature, accompanied by twisting of the vertebral column. It is the most common vertebral abnormality among girls and tends to get worse during adolescent growth spurts. The cause of scoliosis is usually unknown, but it can be influenced by factors such as weakness of the back muscles, differential growth rates in the right and left sides of the vertebral column, or differences in the length of the lower limbs. Treatment options range from observation and monitoring to the use of back braces or even surgery in extreme cases.