Final answer:
Scoliosis is an abnormal, lateral curvature of the spine that tends to worsen during adolescent growth spurts. While most cases do not require treatment, back braces or surgery may be recommended in more severe cases.
Step-by-step explanation:
Scoliosis is an abnormal, lateral curvature of the spine. It is the most common vertebral abnormality among girls. The cause of scoliosis is usually unknown, but it may result from weaknesses in 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.
Scoliosis tends to worsen during adolescent growth spurts. While most individuals do not require treatment, a back brace may be recommended for growing children, and in extreme cases, surgery may be necessary.