Living with scoliosis can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when you’re navigating your treatment options or learning about how scoliosis is creating changes in your body. Building a support system that suits you is part of the journey of scoliosis. Whether it’s healthcare professionals, family, or online communities, having the right people around you can make all the difference in your scoliosis journey. Let’s dive into how you can build a team of support that will empower you every step of the way.
1. Your Clinician: The Backbone of Your Treatment Plan
Your healthcare team for scoliosis should start with a specially trained ScoliCare clinician. Ideally this is someone who is dedicated to the assessment and treatment of scoliosis on a daily basis. These healthcare professionals are there to provide the necessary advice, diagnosis, and treatment options you need. Whether you’re considering bracing, physical rehabilitation, or even surgery, your clinician will explain your options and work with you to create a plan tailored to your specific needs. This health professional should be well equipped to be able to prescribe the required treatment plan or refer to other health professionals as needed. For example, if your scoliosis Cobb angle (measurement on X-ray) is on the smaller side it may be appropriate for physiotherapeutic scoliosis specific exercises (PSSE), or if your scoliosis is moderate to severe you may be prescribed PSSE and bracing. A health professional specifically trained in scoliosis will also be able to refer you for further testing or even for a surgical consult, if necessary.
It’s crucial to have open and honest communication with your clinician. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and share any concerns if you are uncertain. The more information you have, the more confident you’ll feel about the path you’re taking in your scoliosis care.
Tip: Keep track of your symptoms, any changes you notice in your condition between visits. This can help you and your clinician adjust your treatment plan as needed.
2. Scoliosis Rehabilitation Therapists (SRTs): Working on Postural Corrections to Strengthen Your Spine
Physical rehabilitation plays a key role in managing scoliosis. But scoliosis rehabilitation is not the same as typical or general physiotherapy, chiropractic or osteopathic care. Our Scoliosis Rehabilitation Therapists (SRTs) are trained in a scoliosis specific exercise program called ScoliBalance. This program helps you to retrain your mind and body so that you are strengthening your corrected posture, not your scoliotic posture. Everyday exercise, and even Pilates and Yoga, are great for general health benefits, however you will be strengthening your body in a scoliotic posture. In a ScoliBalance program, the SRT will work with you to teach you how to actively correct your posture in 3D (remember scoliosis is a 3D condition), and then work with you to integrate it into your activities of daily living, sport and, yes even Pilates and Yoga if that’s what you desire! The ScoliBalance program is a powerful tool in scoliosis rehabilitation, providing a holistic approach to strengthening the spine and correcting posture. Through specific exercises and therapeutic techniques, ScoliBalance helps patients to improve their posture back to a more symmetrical appearance, while strengthening the parts that are weak, and improving the mobility in stiff areas! SRTs work closely with each patient to tailor the program to their individual needs and support their journey to better spinal health.
Tip: Make sure to attend all scheduled ScoliBalance sessions and stay consistent with your exercises at home. The more you put in, the more you’ll get out!
3. Family and Friends: Your Emotional Anchors
Support from family and friends in your scoliosis journey can’t be underestimated. They’re the people who help you through the emotional ups and downs that come with living with scoliosis. While you will be able to continue doing a lot of what you already do, managing scoliosis can have its frustrations. We can appreciate that wearing a brace, practising exercises and attending appointments is an interruption to life. Whether it’s dealing with the frustration of wearing a brace, recovering from surgery, or simply needing a laugh during a tough day, your loved ones are your emotional anchors.
It’s important to communicate openly with them about your needs. Sometimes they won’t know exactly what you’re going through, so sharing your experience helps them better understand how they can support you.
Tip: Consider involving your loved ones in your treatment journey. Having a family member or friend attend appointments with you can provide an extra layer of comfort.
4. Support Groups: Connect with Others
Sometimes, the most powerful support comes from those who truly understand what you’re going through. Scoliosis support groups can offer a sense of community and a platform to share experiences. Whether it’s advice on how to adjust to wearing a scoliosis brace or words of encouragement before surgery, connecting with others who are facing similar challenges can be incredibly empowering.
ScoliConnect is an online Facebook group dedicated to ScoliCare patients and their families. Sharing stories and tips with others who are on the same journey can help you feel less isolated and more motivated to tackle your treatment plan.
Tip: If you don’t feel ready to speak up, that’s okay! Start by reading others’ stories and gaining insight from the group. When you’re ready, don’t hesitate to join in—it can be incredibly rewarding.
Building Your Dream Team
The support you receive from your healthcare team, family, friends, and online communities can help you face scoliosis with confidence and optimism. Don’t hesitate to lean on others, ask for help, and be proactive in building the team that’s right for you. Remember, you don’t have to go through this journey alone—there are plenty of people ready and willing to help!
Your scoliosis support network is an essential part of your path to feeling better, both physically and emotionally. Surround yourself with the right people, and know that you’re not just managing your condition—you’re thriving with it!
