Scoliosis is defined as a curvature of the spine in which direction?

Scoliosis is characterized by an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine. This condition can manifest in various forms and degrees of severity, but the defining feature is that the spine bends sideways, often in an "S" or "C" shape when viewed from behind.

The terminology related to spine curvature includes descriptions such as medial (toward the midline of the body), vertical (up and down), and transverse (horizontal). None of these accurately defines scoliosis. Lateral curvature, however, specifically refers to the side-to-side deviation of the spine, which is precisely what occurs in scoliosis. Thus, identifying scoliosis as a lateral curvature is essential for understanding the condition and facilitating correct diagnosis and treatment.