Developmental psychological aspects of scoliosis treatment

The diagnosis and treatment of idiopathic adolescent scoliosis can have significant psychological consequences for affected individuals. This article aims to provide an overview of the current state of empirical knowledge concerning the psychosocial aspects of scoliosis in adolescence. These research results are set against experience gained from practical work. Adolescence, as a sensitive phase of a young person's development, requires a special degree of adaptation in the event of a chronic illness. For scoliosis patients this means, for instance, facing up to cosmetic impairments and subjectively significant physical defects. Cognitively the patient must come to terms with a commitment of time-consuming, confining, and sometimes uncomfortable treatment for a condition that does not always cause physical symptoms and to achieve success which is not necessarily defined as an improvement in the state of health. Scoliosis is a risk factor for impairment of the quality of life of children and adolescents. Its impact is particularly marked if brace-wearing is indicated. Particular attention needs to be paid to aspects of brace compliance. Support for patients within the context of in-patient rehabilitative treatment has proved to be both necessary and helpful. Here, within the setting of psychological group sessions and individual discussions, the possibility exists for preventing psychosocial impairment.