Scoliosis Information for Kids
We get it – having scoliosis stinks. Getting diagnosed can be confusing and scary, but we are here to help. Our scoliosis information for kids below offers tips for dealing with scoliosis.
Things You Should Know About Having Scoliosis
-
When you have scoliosis, reach out to your friends for support. Good friends will always have your back! Having scoliosis isn’t as scary as it seems but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do something about it. Starting treatment early is your best bet, but we offer Schroth exercises and a 3D scoliosis brace for kids with almost any Cobb angle.
- Scoliosis is common. At least 3 million people in the U.S. have it. Other kids at your school may have it and you may not even know it.
- Scoliosis is nothing to be ashamed of. Trying to hide it may only make you feel worse. We’ve found that the kids who do best are those who are open their friends – their support may surprise you! Having a sense of humor about it also helps.
- Everyone’s comfort level is different. If you are concerned about your appearance and need tips for dressing with scoliosis, or what to wear with a scoliosis brace, please link here. Our Schroth therapists, Amy and Kim guide kids in topics like this through their scoliosis journey.
- If you have a brace, wear it for the recommended number of hours. You may not like it now but you will thank yourself later. Studies show that the more hours you wear a scoliosis brace, the more likely it is to work.
- There are things you can do to try and control scoliosis that in many cases can really make a difference. If surgery is recommended, please know that it’s a personal choice and not an easy or quick solution. Scoliosis is a lifetime condition that requires monitoring and management, even if you choose to have surgery.
- There’s no reason to think you can’t live a fun, long, healthy and active life with scoliosis. For example, Usain Bolt, the fastest man in the world, has scoliosis. Actress Shailene Woodley has scoliosis too, and she rocks the red carpet with low back dresses. It warms our hearts when our patients, or their parents, send us pics in prom dresses with big smiles on their faces!
For most kids, learning to manage scoliosis early is the key. Exercises for scoliosis have been used in Europe for a long time. We began using the Schroth method in this country in 2002 and then officially introduced it in Massachusetts in 2007. People in the US are now experiencing the benefits of the Schroth method. For some kids with scoliosis, bracing is also required. Wearing a brace can be tough at times, but remember that it is temporary, and that it is the best way to help prevent curve progression until you are finished growing. Using the Schroth method to enhance the effects of a well-designed scoliosis brace can help. It takes work but you can do it!
Some days may get rocky but keep in mind that no one cares about you like your parents do. They only want to try and help you prevent or manage your scoliosis and make sure you don’t ever have to have surgery. The methods we use are the friendliest way possible to manage scoliosis – for you and your body. We can teach you what you need to know to have the best outcome in the long-term.
When you are here for our program:
- Dr. Marc, Amy and Kim will teach you, encourage you and you can always count on them for support, even after you return home. They will help you understand everything you need to successfully manage scoliosis.
- They will do their best to make it a fun experience and make you feel comfortable.
- You will get resources (a notebook, worksheets, and links to videos of your home program for scoliosis)! That way you will have all the needed resources and a package of comprehensive information to refer to when you get home.
- If you get a brace, it will be fit so that it is the best possible combo of effective and comfortable. Don’t be afraid to ask questions because we are here to help you!
- Our scoliosis treatment team will ease your fears and help you realize that you are not a victim of scoliosis.
After the program:
Do the work! Pay attention to how you sit and stand – the way you were taught! Incorporate your exercises regularly and wear your brace (if applicable).- Your parents may nag you about your brace and exercise, but remember that they only want the best for you.
- Some kids choose to join a support network with other kids who do our program (optional).
- We want you to check-in with us to let us know about your progress. We are rooting for you!
- It’s not always easy, but like anything else in life having a good attitude can take you far.
- Own your scoliosis, it’s part of what makes you, you!
What Kids and Parents Say about Our Program
“I did everything Dr. Marc taught me and I was able to wear the prom dress of my dreams and feel good about myself!”
– Courtney
“I haven’t missed a day of my scoliosis exercises and I reduced my curve. No one at my other doctor’s office could believe it.”
– Abbey
“I am glad to do the exercises. I could tell my clothes started to fit better.”
– Ashley
“10 Good Things About My Scoliosis Brace & Schroth Program At Scoliosis3DC”
‘1. I got some new clothes.
2. If someone tries to punch me I’m pretty sure they’ll get hurt more than me.
3. Going sightseeing in Boston.
4. Getting to Meet Amy who is very helpful, awesome, good at explaining things, and super nice.
5. Getting to meet Dr. Marc who is patient, nice, smart, and very positive.
6. The extra layers keep me warm.
7. The brace is a lot more comfortable than I expected.
8. Getting an explanation about scoliosis that I understand.
9. It’ll help my scoliosis improve.
10. Meeting all the helpful and friendly staff at Scoliosis3DC.’
– Emma
To Dr. Marc, I give all the credit for helping me with my back, and giving me back my confidence. His proactive approach to my problem allowed me to get results, minimize discomfort, and feel empowered.”
– Sam (To read more about Sam’s scoliosis story, click here.)
“[Amanda] was taught that she had control over what was happening which greatly diminished the anxiety she had about having scoliosis. She was encouraged to ask as many questions as she needed without feeling rushed or embarrassed. I can honestly say that I felt that Amanda’s happiness and physical wellbeing was very important to everyone in the office. She will be able to manage [scoliosis] into the future with the courage and confidence she has gained through the process. Amanda has taken control and responsibility for her treatment because she has been given this knowledge and confidence to do so.”
– Jessica (and her daughter Amanda)
