Scoliosis (sko-lee-O-sis) is a side-to-side curvature of the spine. One type of scoliosis, called idiopathic scoliosis, is common in the general population. (The word "idiopathic" is used to describe a disease having no known cause.) Idiopathic scoliosis affects two to three percent of children, usually just before or during adolescence.

An unusual form of scoliosis, dysplastic scoliosis, is seen in NF1 but rarely in the general population. Dysplastic scoliosis is characterized by a sharp curve over just a few vertebrae.

• When does scoliosis show up? Scoliosis typically appears during early childhood.
  
  
• How common is scoliosis among people with NF1? Scoliosis occurs in about 15 percent of children with NF1.
  
  
• How is it treated? In less severe cases, a brace can be worn to prevent further curvature of the spine. More severe cases require surgery to correct the curvature.