Families frequently inquire as to whether exercise, posture, mattresses, shoes, or backpacks cause or contribute to scoliosis. With a high level of certainty, it appears that there is no relationship between any of these factors and scoliosis incidence or progression. Nonetheless, modifications (e.g., a properly loaded backpack) may improve secondary pain or discomfort.

Parents often inquire whether scoliosis is harmful to the internal organs. Because of changes in the shape and size of the thorax, idiopathic scoliosis may indeed affect pulmonary function. Recent reports on pulmonary function testing in idiopathic scoliosis patients document diminution of pulmonary function in individuals with mild or moderate scoliosis.

In patients with mild to moderate curves, the presence of scoliosis does not have an effect on pregnancy with respect to delivery and well being of the foetus. Furthermore, pregnancy does not cause progression of curvature in mothers who have idiopathic scoliosis. This is true both for individuals who have undergone scoliosis corrective surgery and for those who have not.

Although exercise programs have not been shown to affect the natural history of scoliosis, exercise is encouraged in patients with scoliosis to minimize any potential decrease in functional ability over time. It is very important for all people, including those with scoliosis, to exercise and remain physically fit. Girls have a higher risk than boys of developing osteoporosis (a disorder that results in weak bones that can break easily) later in life. The risk of osteoporosis is reduced in women who exercise regularly all their lives; and weight-bearing exercise, such as walking, running, soccer, and gymnastics, increases bone density and helps prevent.