Scoliosis Awareness Month June 2022
June is Scoliosis Awareness Month
Scoliosis Awareness Month is an important initiative for Health Professionals, patients and the public to start a conversation about scoliosis.
It’s an opportunity to help people understand what scoliosis is and who it can affect, including how to recognise the warning signs in family or friends.
If we are proactive in screening and early detection, encourage people with scoliosis to seek the right treatment and share their experiences, then we can really make a difference to outcomes.
Scoliosis Awareness Month
This year’s focus: The Scoliosis Journey
Scoliosis can look different for everyone. For some, the journey begins in childhood. For others, it can be when they notice symptoms or changes as an adult. Both paths are equally real and have their own challenges.
We don’t seem to talk about the ‘human’ side of scoliosis much as a community. Most conversations focus on the clinical aspects – symptoms, cobb angle, and treatment options… but there is so much more at play for scoliosis patients.
This year’s Scoliosis Awareness Month focus reflects the multi-faceted scoliosis journey. By taking a broader view of scoliosis, we can understand the bigger picture and help patients navigate it with a positive mindset.
Patients and their families can help raise awareness
Through sharing personal stories and educating family and friends about the signs and symptoms of scoliosis, patients and their families are critical to encouraging early detection for better patient outcomes.
Health Professionals can help raise awareness
By encouraging the sharing of information, resources, cases and studies, Health Professionals are key in screening and early detection, and getting patients the care they need.
The Community can help raise awareness
Through conversations about scoliosis and de-mystifying the condition, the community can better understand who scoliosis can affect, how they are affected and what to look out for.
Get involved during June!
Nora Lee’s story
Nora Lee was diagnosed with scoliosis at age 13 years.
In this video, Nora Lee explains how she felt when diagnosed and how, through maintaining a positive mindset, she has come through her treatment journey a stronger person.
Nora Lee's story
Robyn’s story
Robyn was diagnosed with scoliosis at age 56.
In this video, Robyn describes the experience of being diagnosed later in life and how her treatment journey has enhanced her quality of life.
Robyn's story
Some things to think about over June:
The scoliosis journey can begin at any time
- While many people think of adolescents when they think of scoliosis, adults can be affected too.
- An estimated 36%* of adults over 60 years are affected by scoliosis (*McAviney et al, 2020).
- Modern approaches to conservative care such as 3D custom bracing mean children, teens, and adults can get the treatment they need, when they need it.
Scoliosis is more than just a curve in the spine
- Emotions can play a major role for patients during diagnosis and treatment.
- Appreciating the complexity and emotional challenges helps foster a greater understanding.
Choose the care and support that’s right for you
- Scoliosis care and treatment is accessible and available.
- 3D custom bracing and specific rehabilitation approaches provide proven options.
- Scoliosis clinicians treat the patient as a whole, not just a spine, aligning treatment with patient needs and goals.
Scoliosis doesn’t need to define you
- A focused approach to self-care including healthy choices and exercise can help patients thrive during treatment.
- It’s important to pursue interests and activities for enjoyment.
- Maintaining a positive mindset.
Family, friends, peers, and healthcare providers are essential partners in the scoliosis journey
- Scoliosis diagnosis and treatment can affect parents, family members, and friends as well.
- Strong trusting relationships promote understanding and support for patients.
- Responding to the social and emotional needs of patients is critical, listening and allowing people to express what they’re going through is key.
Personal stories can inspire and educate others
- Hearing personal stories can help others recognize signs of scoliosis.
- Sharing of experiences shows patients that they are not defined by their scoliosis.
- Through increased understanding, health professionals, families, and schools can take the lead in supporting patients and help normalize the journey.