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How to Support Your Teen Through Scoliosis Treatment

 How to Support Your Teen Through Scoliosis Treatment

Receiving a scoliosis diagnosis can be both physically and emotionally challenging for a teen. The good news is that they’re never alone. 

As a fellowship-trained spine surgeon and board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon, Dr. John Regan and the Spine Group Beverly Hills are experts when it comes to managing scoliosis in adolescents, teens, and even adults.

Their support doesn’t end there. As a parent, you play a big role in supporting your child through their diagnosis and treatment. Read on to learn six ways you can support your teen through their scoliosis treatment.

1. Learn as much as you can about their treatment

When your teen is facing a scoliosis diagnosis, it’s normal for them to have questions about scoliosis itself and about their treatment. You can be a support for them by learning as much as you can about their condition. 

Scoliosis refers to an abnormal curve in your teen’s spine. Scoliosis curves can be mild, while some can be more severe creating an S-shape in your child’s spine.

You can learn about scoliosis from your teen’s Spine Group Beverly Hills care team. You can also learn about it from reputable sources, including the National Institute of Health archives, the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, and peer-reviewed studies.

Here at Spine Group Beverly Hills, Dr. Regan may recommend a variety of treatments based on the severity of your teen’s scoliosis:

If surgery is recommended, Dr. Regan utilizes minimally invasive techniques.  He also uses a coflex® device to eliminate spinal movement.

2. Keep communication open

Teens may struggle with the emotional aspects of scoliosis treatment. For example, they might feel nervous about undergoing surgery. The thought of wearing a brace might make them feel self-conscious. Ask your child how they’re feeling about their treatment and any fears they may have. 

Be patient and understanding. If your child isn’t ready to talk, that’s okay. Just let them know that you’re available when they’re ready. 

Keep in mind that some teens may not want to verbalize their emotions face to face. Some may prefer to write down their thoughts in a letter, and that’s okay too. 

3. Focus on the positives

If your teen is feeling down, remind your teen that scoliosis treatment is a temporary phase with long-term benefits. 

Reinforce the positives of scoliosis treatment, such as:

Write a few of these positives on a sticky note and place them where your teen can see them e.g., on their bedroom mirror or their closet door. This simple trick can help them reframe their treatment from “I have to wear a brace” to “I get to wear a brace, and I’m grateful for the benefits it will bring me.”

4. Encourage self-care

Self-care isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity! Physical therapy, nourishing food, and gentle exercise can be part of your teen’s scoliosis management plan. 

Self-care is especially important if your teen is recovering from surgery, but it applies even with non-surgical scoliosis management.

Encourage your teen to stay active in a way that supports their treatment plan, such as participating in exercises recommended by Dr. Regan. Exercise can also boost their mood! 

5. Be their advocate

Teens often feel self-conscious about visible treatments like braces. Advocate for them by helping communicate their needs with teachers, school staff, coaches (if applicable), and even their friends (if requested). 

This can include helping them get extra time for physical education or making accommodations for their brace at school.

6. Celebrate milestones

Celebrate treatment milestones — no matter how small!  Whether it’s an improvement in posture or completing another phase of treatment, celebrating any progress helps your teen stay motivated and confident.

Questions? We’re here for you!

If you have questions about your teen’s current treatment plan, don’t hesitate to give us a call at 424-238-3281. 

If you suspect that your child has scoliosis and need to schedule an evaluation, use our online scheduling tool to book your teen’s appointment in our Santa Monica, California, office.

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