Abstract
Idiopathic scoliosis, a complex spinal deformity, has long been viewed primarily through an orthopedic lens. However, recent research has unveiled a multitude of factors contributing to its development, including hormonal imbalances, bone density variations, emotional and digestive symptoms, genomic variants, and neurotransmitter abnormalities. This narrative review aims to highlight the multi-factorial nature of idiopathic scoliosis, emphasizing the common abnormalities that exist in patients with idiopathic scoliosis that occur outside of the vertebral column itself. Given that these abnormalities seem to be consistent with previously published etiopathological models of scoliosis development and progression, it is feasible to deduce that a more comprehensive idiopathic scoliosis treatment model, one that extends beyond traditional orthopedics to optimize patient care and outcomes, is needed. This treatment framework is proposed through a functional medicine model of patient management.