Speak Up for Scoliosis: The Conversations We Need to Have This June

Every year, countless children and teens hear the same thing from parents, coaches, teachers, or even classmates: “Stand up straight.”

Sometimes, it is brushed off as poor posture or awkward growth spurts. Other times, it turns out to be something far more serious: scoliosis.

In a 2024 study of over 55.6 million children and adolescents, scoliosis has a prevalence rate of 3.1%. This translates to roughly 1.7 million children and adolescents with scoliosis.

For many families, the diagnosis does not happen until the spinal curvature has already progressed significantly. As a result, treatment choices are limited, and patients may face years of physical and emotional challenges.

That is precisely why National Scoliosis Awareness Month exists. June offers an opportunity to encourage people to speak up for scoliosis before an abnormal curvature becomes harder to manage.

Earlier conversations can lead to earlier diagnosis, more treatment options, and better long-term outcomes for patients living with scoliosis. Whether you are a parent, patient, teacher, coach, or healthcare provider, raising awareness can genuinely change lives.

Why Speaking Up for Scoliosis Matters More Than Ever

Scoliosis affects millions of people worldwide, yet many cases still go undetected until curves become severe.

During Scoliosis Awareness Month, healthcare professionals and advocacy groups continue to emphasize the value of scoliosis screening and early detection, as timing is a significant factor.

Many school scoliosis screening programs have been reduced or eliminated over the years. That means parents, pediatricians, and family members now play a much larger role in recognizing the early signs of scoliosis in children and teens.

The Cost of Silence

Idiopathic scoliosis can progress rapidly during a growth spurt. A curve that starts small may worsen dramatically within a year or two if it is not monitored closely.

When scoliosis is diagnosed late, treatment options may become more limited. Larger curves may impact posture, physical comfort, mobility, and even heart and lung function in severe cases.

Emotional effects can also be significant, especially for teens struggling with body image changes involving the shoulder blade, rib prominence, or uneven posture.

In fact, a 2022 review published in the Children journal found consistent links between adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) and higher rates of anxiety, depression, poor self-image, and emotional distress. Researchers noted that visible physical changes, brace treatment, chronic pain, and fear of curve progression can significantly affect mental health and quality of life in adolescents with scoliosis.

What “Speaking Up” Actually Looks Like

You don’t need medical expertise to speak up on behalf of scoliosis awareness. Sometimes it starts with simple awareness, which can look like:

• Asking for a scoliosis screening during annual pediatric visits
• Paying attention to uneven shoulders or spinal curvature
• Sharing patient stories during National Scoliosis Awareness Month
• Supporting community events focused on spinal health
• Encouraging conversations about spinal conditions without stigma

Together, these everyday actions help more people recognize the signs of scoliosis earlier, seek care sooner, and feel less alone while facing their diagnosis and treatment journey.

Scoliosis Facts Every Parent and Patient Should Know

Many people associate scoliosis strictly with children or teenagers, but scoliosis can affect patients of all ages.

Who Gets Scoliosis?

Idiopathic scoliosis is the most common type and typically develops between ages 10 and 14. According to research shared by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, girls are significantly more likely to develop curves that require treatment.

Adults may also experience spinal disorders related to scoliosis. Some adults were diagnosed earlier in life, while others begin developing scoliosis later due to degeneration within the spine.

How Is Scoliosis Detected?

Early diagnosis frequently begins with a simple physical exam.

Healthcare providers may perform the Adam’s Forward Bend Test during a scoliosis screening to look for signs of asymmetry along the curvature of the spine. X-rays are then used to confirm scoliosis and measure curve severity.

In some cases, advanced imaging may be recommended to evaluate other spinal conditions or neurological concerns.

What Happens If It Goes Untreated?

Without proper monitoring or treatment, scoliosis may continue progressing over time. Severe curves can contribute to chronic pain, mobility limitations, reduced lung function, and changes to heart and lung function.

Patients and parents wondering what happens when scoliosis is left untreated should understand that early detection creates more opportunities for conservative care before surgery becomes necessary.

Scoliosis Awareness Month: Voices That Are Changing the Conversation

One of the most powerful parts of National Scoliosis Awareness Month is the growing number of patients and advocates willing to share their experiences publicly.

Patient Advocates Leading the Way

Social media communities and support groups have helped many patients realize they are not alone. Patient stories from teens, adults, and parents help reduce fear while encouraging others to seek help earlier.

Many advocates also push for improved scoliosis research and better access to scoliosis screening programs nationwide.

For example, Princess Eugenie, a member of the British royal family, has openly spoken about her scoliosis surgery at age 12, intentionally showing her scar during her royal wedding and regularly posting to spread awareness. This is powerful work in the field of scoliosis diagnosis and treatment.

The Role of Spine Specialists in Public Education

Of course, healthcare professionals specializing in treating scoliosis play a critical role in raising awareness throughout June.

Educational webinars, awareness campaigns, and online resources help families better understand scoliosis treatment options and advances in patient care. This type of education also helps patients connect with qualified scoliosis specialists earlier in the process.

Exploring Scoliosis Treatment Options: What Patients Need to Hear

One of the biggest misconceptions surrounding scoliosis is that surgery is always inevitable. That simply is not true.

Treatment depends on several factors, including age, curve severity, skeletal maturity, symptoms, and progression risk.

Conservative Non-Surgical Options

Some patients with mild scoliosis may only require observation and routine monitoring.

Other treatment approaches may include:

• Physical therapy to support posture and strength
• Bracing to help reduce progression during growth
• Activity modifications
• Ongoing imaging and monitoring during periods of rapid growth

Bracing has shown strong results for many children and teens diagnosed during the early stages of developing scoliosis.

Surgical Options 

For larger curves, surgery may become part of the discussion. However, surgical treatment has evolved significantly.

Traditional spinal fusion remains a common option, but newer approaches like vertebral body tethering and Anterior Scoliosis Correction (ASC) offer motion-preserving alternatives for select patients.

Vertebral body tethering may be appropriate for younger patients with remaining growth potential. ASC has emerged as another innovative option for certain patients seeking correction without traditional fusion.

Patients curious how ASC compares to VBT and metal rod fusion should speak with experienced scoliosis specialists who understand the full range of modern treatment approaches.

How to Be a Scoliosis Advocate This June and All Year Long

Raising awareness about scoliosis starts with everyday conversations.

During National Scoliosis Awareness Month, small actions can lead to earlier diagnosis, better treatment options, and stronger support for patients and families living with scoliosis.

For Parents

Many cases of idiopathic scoliosis first appear during adolescent growth spurts, making parents an important part of early detection.

Watch for uneven shoulders, changes around the shoulder blade, leaning posture, or clothes fitting unevenly. If something seems off, ask for a scoliosis screening.

Parents can also help by:

• Scheduling annual spinal checks during adolescence
• Learning about modern scoliosis treatment options
• Sharing educational resources with other families
• Joining support groups or awareness campaigns

Sometimes one conversation can encourage another family to seek answers sooner.

For Patients

Patient stories help people feel less alone.

Whether you are wearing a brace, recovering from surgery, or managing adult scoliosis, sharing your experience may encourage someone else to seek help earlier or ask better questions about their care.

Advocacy can be as simple as:

• Posting your journey online
• Talking openly about scoliosis treatment
• Supporting newly diagnosed patients
• Helping correct misconceptions about scoliosis

For Educators and School Nurses

Teachers, coaches, and school nurses are often among the first people to notice signs of spinal curvature in students.

Schools can support awareness by:

• Encouraging spinal health education
• Reintroducing scoliosis screening programs when possible
• Helping families recognize early warning signs
• Supporting students undergoing treatment

Early conversations can make a major difference in long-term outcomes.

For Healthcare Providers

Healthcare professionals play a major role in early diagnosis and referral.

Routine scoliosis screening during adolescence, close monitoring during growth spurts, and staying informed on evolving treatment options can help patients access care before curves progress significantly.

For Everyone

You do not need a scoliosis diagnosis to help raise awareness! During Scoliosis Awareness Month, consider:

• Sharing educational posts online
• Supporting scoliosis research organizations
• Participating in community events
• Encouraging friends or family members to get evaluated if they notice symptoms

The more people speak up for scoliosis, the more likely others are to recognize the signs early and seek the care they need.

FAQs — Scoliosis Awareness Month Edition

Is scoliosis painful?

Not always. Mild scoliosis may cause little to no pain initially, though larger curves and adult scoliosis frequently create discomfort over time.

Can adults receive scoliosis treatment?

Yes. Adults with scoliosis may benefit from observation, physical therapy, pain management, or surgical care depending on their condition.

What are the signs parents should watch for?

Uneven shoulders, changes near the shoulder blade, leaning posture, rib prominence, or clothing fitting unevenly may all warrant evaluation.

Why does early detection matter so much?

Early detection creates more treatment flexibility and may reduce the likelihood of severe progression.

This June, Help Start the Scoliosis Conversation

Speaking up for scoliosis helps more patients receive answers before curves progress silently.

Whether you are concerned about scoliosis in children and teens, exploring scoliosis treatment for adults, or simply learning more during Scoliosis Awareness Month, awareness truly carries weight.

This National Scoliosis Awareness Month, take a stand for your spine. The physicians at the Institute for Spine & Scoliosis have treated patients worldwide using advanced scoliosis treatment techniques, including motion-preserving approaches like ASC.

Learn more about your options and request an expert review today.