Do they use braces or surgery for scoliosis today?

Depends: It depends on the classification (idiopathic, neuromuscular etc) of the scoliosis as well as the degree of the curvature. Goal is early diagnosis and keep the curvature controlled during growth spurt. In idiopathic (most common) bracing is generally recommended for degrees of curvature 20-40. Greater than 40 surgery is considered. Again, many factors to consider. Discuss with orthopedic surgeon.

Both: Most people with scoliosis do not need treatment. Some need bracing to minimize the chance of a scoliosis from getting worse during your growth period if it has risk of doing so based on seveal factors as determined by your orthopaedic surgeon. Only 1% of scoliosis cases requires surgery. After surgery, a brace may also be used while the fusion heals.