Objective To develop a three-dimensional (3-D) finite element (FE) model of the scoliotic spine. Methods The T6L1 spinal segment of a scoliosis patient was scanned by CT, and CT images were used to generate a geometrical model of the scoliotic spine using Simpleware and Geomagic software. A 3-D FE model was subsequently created and analyzed using ABAQUS. Results The 3-D geometrical model of the scoliotic spine resembled the actual spinal segments. Consisting of 232,315 elements and 356,830 nodes, the FE model could accurately determine vertebral stress and displacement distribution due to a load. Conclusion The 3-D FE model may be used for biomechanical study of scoliosis.