Top ten things you should know about scoliosis
1. After diagnosis you should ensure you are seen by a scoliosis specialist. To be referred to one of the specialists who work in the 30 scoliosis centres across the UK and Republic of Ireland, please contact us.
2. Don’t feel alone. At SAUK we run a membership service and we put people who have had experience of scoliosis in touch with each other. If you would like to speak to other people who have had scoliosis, please become a member.
3. Scoliosis can happen at any age. To find out more about the different types of scoliosis that there are please visit the About scoliosis section.
4. Appointments with scoliosis specialists can often be rushed, so you might forget important questions that you wanted to ask. Make sure that you are prepared. Try to take someone else with you and write down any questions that you have and take them with you.
5. If you have seen a specialist and treatment options are unclear make sure you go back to see them to ask questions and so that they can explain further. If you are still confused or uncertain you are always entitled to a second opinion. To find where else you could see a specialist please contact us.
6. It is really good to keep fit and active. Being fit and flexible is very important, so doing regular exercise is key. All exercise is beneficial; you could start with light exercise such as walking and swimming, as well as activities such as Pilates, Yoga and the Alexander Technique. Complementary therapies that may help with relieving pain include hydrotherapy and gentle massage.
7. Scoliosis is a treatable condition that doesn’t usually cause pain in young people.
8. Surgery isn’t the only option for people with scoliosis. In infants, wearing a plaster cast can encourage the spine to grow straight naturally, and in elderly people there is a range of pain management options to help relieve pain caused by the degenerating spine.
9. With scoliosis you can still lead a life with no restrictions. There is no reason why you shouldn’t go on to have successful jobs, travel and have a family.
10. If you ever need to talk about any of your concerns about scoliosis please call SAUK’s helpline.