Scoliosis is a condition that causes the spine to abnormally curve sideways. Although many people have not heard of the condition it is surprisingly common, impacting infants, adolescents and adults of all races, classes, and all genders.
Approximately one out of every six children diagnosed with scoliosis will have a curve that requires active treatment, sometimes involving surgery. Early diagnosis is the key to taking important first steps to providing treatment that may prevent more serious problems.
Every June, National Scoliosis Awareness Month highlights the growing need for education, early detection and awareness about scoliosis and its prevalence. The campaign also unites scoliosis patients, families, physicians, clinicians, institutions, and related businesses in collaborative grassroots networking throughout the month.
Only two-thirds of states mandate or recommend scoliosis screening in schools, so it is important that friends and family members learn to recognize the signs and symptoms of the condition and know that help from their doctor is available. It is often parents or primary care providers who first identify the issue. Fortunately, an examination and X-ray can confirm the diagnosis and an expert can recommend treatment, if necessary.
If you want to Speak Up for Scoliosis, there are many ways to share your message. Consider updating your social media with informational content, create your own Scoliosis Awareness Month Facebook fundraiser to support scoliosis research, download our press release and share with your local paper, find inspiration from our patient stories or learn more about scoliosis by watching one of our patient education videos.
You can also participate in a LIVE Patient Education webinar on Saturday, June 24, 2023 at 09:00 AM ET on the topic of Brace Treatment in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis. Learn more on our website and register to attend. Review our patient event calendar for more information, or submit an event.
As part of advocacy efforts for the month, we also invite all scoliosis patients, family members and advocates to send requests to US governors asking them to proclaim June as National Scoliosis Awareness Month. Let your voice be heard in your state and take action to support those with spinal conditions by sending letters of support.
About Scoliosis Research Society
The Scoliosis Research Society is a non-profit, professional organization, made up of physicians and allied health personnel. Our primary focus is on providing continuing medical education for health care professionals and on funding/supporting research in spinal deformities. Founded in 1966, SRS has gained recognition as the world's premier spine deformity society. Please visit www.srs.org for further information. Also follow us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.
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