Scoliosis is indeed more common in girls than in boys, especially during adolescence. While both genders can develop scoliosis, studies show that girls are more likely to experience a form of scoliosis that progresses and requires treatment. In fact, idiopathic scoliosis (the most common type, with no clear cause) is about 7-10 times more likely to progress in girls, particularly during growth spurts in puberty.

The reasons for this are not fully known,  but there are a few leading theories:

• Hormonal Differences: Hormones like estrogen, which are more prevalent in females, may play a role in bone growth and development. Some researchers believe that estrogen can affect the spine’s growth and make it more susceptible to scoliosis during rapid growth phases, like puberty.
• Growth Spurts: Girls typically experience growth spurts earlier than boys. This period of rapid skeletal development may increase the chances of developing scoliosis if the spine is already prone to abnormal curving.
• Genetic Factors: While scoliosis can be hereditary, it’s believed that certain genes involved in skeletal growth and development may express differently in boys and girls, making girls more prone to developing the condition.
• Structural Differences: Some studies suggest that girls may have different biomechanics or structural features in the spine that make them more vulnerable to scoliosis.
• Progression Rates: While scoliosis can occur in both boys and girls, it tends to progress more quickly in girls, which may explain why more girls end up needing treatment or having more noticeable curvatures.

Treatment

The type of treatment for scoliosis depends on the specific case, and doctors typically choose the least invasive method first. The goal is to prevent the curve from worsening, manage symptoms, and maintain functionality. Approaches may include bracing, physical therapy, and activity modification.

Surgical correction is indicated for patients who have chronic or severe pain, as well as patients who have developed neurologic weakness or those who have refractory pain. Modern technology allows the surgeon to straighten the spine and decompress pinched nerves or spinal cord to prevent future damage and improve pain. This is commonly associated with a spinal fusion, or a bone graft is used to stabilize the spine and may involve instrumentation.