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Psychology of Scoliosis
The psychology of scoliosis affects developing children and teenagers just as much as the physical condition could ever do.
Scoliosis
is a condition characterized by a side to side curvature of the spine, often creating an unusual appearance and making the affected young person feel different and extremely self conscious. While scoliosis is rarely inherently painful, the diagnostic
nocebo
effect of the condition can sometimes contribute to the development of
back pain,
which might become a chronic lifelong concern.
Psychology of Scoliosis / DiagnosisIt is crucial that young people are provided with an honest and upbeat view of scoliosis when first diagnosed. It is well known that the condition is virtually always asymptomatic and this fact should be made very clear to people affected by spinal curvature. If not, fear will sink in, laying the ideal groundwork for a psychosomatic back pain syndrome to begin. It happened to me… It can happen to anyone… Psychology of Scoliosis / TreatmentTreating most cases of juvenile scoliosis consists of simply monitoring the condition or using a back brace in an attempt to stop further progression of the curvature and maybe even reverse the process to some degree. Bracing is difficult for a child or teen, since it is yet another characteristic which sets them apart from their peers. It is crucial to reassure young people about using their brace and allow them to participate in all appropriate activities. Treating a young person with scoliosis like damaged or fragile goods is certainly not advised, since it will further alienate them from enjoying a normal childhood.Psychology of Scoliosis / AdviceScoliosis can occasionally look frightening, but is usually of little concern. Severe cases are the exception to the rule and might even necessitate back surgery at some point, to stabilize the spinal column. Luckily, these circumstances are very rare and do not represent the average case of spinal curvature.Remember what it is like to be young and highly sensitive to your body image and social interactions. Consider that children feel tremendous fear about scoliosis, even if they do not voice it openly. There can never be too much reassurance and positive reinforcement given to a child who must wear a brace for any length of time. Most of all, make sure that these children understand that their condition should not leave them disabled, different, in pain or less capable to participate in all of life’s wonderful activities.
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