School Time Experiences of Adolescents with Spinal Deformities during Brace Treatment: A Qualitative Study

Background: Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) and Scheuermann kyphosis (SK) are the most common spinal deformities in adolescents aged 10 to 16. During the past 50 years, brace treatment has been suggested as the most common nonsurgical treatment for AIS and SK. The brace efficacy strongly depends on wearing time. Also, previous studies indicated that patients with spinal deformities undergoing brace treatment experience deformity-related emotional distress. This study aimed to comprehend the experiences of braces-treated adolescents during school time using a qualitative approach. Methods: This descriptive qualitative research was used with an interpretative framework and enlisted the help of children with spinal deformities who have been prescribed "brace wearing." This study was conducted using semi-structured, face-to-face, in-depth interviews and phone conversations from September 2020 to May 2021. Additionally, content analysis was employed. Results: A total of 64 participants were interviewed, including 32 adolescents with spinal deformities under brace treatment and their parents (27 mothers, and 5 fathers). Three main categories-concerns, actual problems, received support-6 subcategories, and 278 codes were discovered following data analysis about participants' experiences. Conclusion: Special school-based programs are required for such tortious conditions. This qualitative study motivates a better understanding of these special children and their hidden problems and suggests developing a supportive protocol.