The biomechanics of scoliosis.

A review of the epidemiology of scoliosis reveals that it is costly in human suffering and health care resources. The terminology is defined and classifications explained. The full geometric description of scoliosis includes the three-dimensional description of the vertebral column, as well as the rib cage. Stereoradiographic and stereophotogrammetric (Raster and Moire) techniques are introduced. The coupling in a kinematic sense between, for example, lateral bend and rotation is compared to the orientation coupling in scoliosis. Genetic, biochemical, hormonal, neurological, and mechanical factors do not as yet explain the etiology. Column buckling models do not incorporate coupling, especially that occurring in scoliosis and thus do not improve our understanding of the deformity or its progression.