Strong support systems foster positive self-image in patients with scoliosis

Friend support and social support have been suggested to be beneficial for adolescents facing medical challenges; however, there is little research to identify who is providing emotional support for children and adolescents with scoliosis. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the sources of emotional support and to analyze a program designed to encourage social support, the Scolios-us Mentor Program (Mentor Program).

This study consisted of a cross-sectional survey. The survey included the SRS-22r, BSSQ-Brace, and questions about demographics, mental health, the Scolios-us Mentor Program, and general scoliosis experience. The survey was distributed via email to Mentor Program participants and to scoliosis clinicians to provide to their patients. Descriptive statistics, Mann-Whitney U tests, and correlations (Cochran-Armitage, Pearson's correlation, and Spearman's correlation) were used to analyze responses.

A total of 46 participants with an age range was 8-18 were included in the final analysis. The median current age was 13 (IQR: 3), and the median diagnosis age was 10 (IQR: 4). Our results indicate that most participants (76.1%) received emotional support from at least two sources, including family, friends, healthcare providers, and support groups. Participants with two or more support sources had significantly higher self-image scores than those below this threshold (p =.042). Self-image scores were significantly higher for those who reported receiving emotional support from a healthcare provider (p =.027). Over 60% (29/46) of participants participated in the Scolios-us Mentor Program. No significant differences were noted in BSSQ-Brace or SRS- 22r scores between those who participate in the Mentor Program versus those who do not, but mentees scored lower for function, self-image, and management than mentors. Interestingly, as program satisfaction increased, BSSQ-Brace scores decreased (p =.012).

Having a strong emotional support system is important for self-image in children and adolescents with scoliosis. Healthcare providers appear to play an important role in promoting a positive self-image in their scoliosis patients. To help patients foster a strong support system, healthcare providers should be knowledgeable of the available psychosocial resources, including scoliosis support groups, for children and adolescents with scoliosis.