M41: Scoliosis

M41.9: Scoliosis, unspecified

Scoliosis, unspecified (ICD-10 code M41.9), refers to a medical condition in which a person's spine has an abnormal sideways curvature. The degree of scoliosis can range from mild to severe, and the curvature may assume an "S" or "C" shape. This disorder most often develops during the growth spurt before puberty. While the exact cause of most scoliosis cases is unknown, it can be associated with conditions such as cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy. Some individuals with scoliosis may display visible signs, including uneven shoulders, uneven waist, or one hip higher than the other. Others may not have any noticeable signs but may experience mild back pain or complications with severe cases when left untreated, which may involve respiratory and cardiac issues. Diagnostic measures can include physical exams and imaging tests like x-rays.