The Psychological Effects of Scoliosis on Children
Scoliosis is one of the most common conditions that affect primarily school-age children, causing their spines to curve sideways. Since many cases are detected in childhood, when the child is still very fragile in their mental development, the condition can have dire psychological effects on them. This could mean what they think about their physical differences from the ‘normal’ kids.
Luckily, after treatment and support, children can adapt quickly to their new situation and consequently live a fulfilling life with it. But, they still need some psychological support, and here is where Creekside Chiropractic comes in.
Psychological Effects Scoliosis Has Poses On Children
There is a correlation between scoliosis and emotional health issues. Depression, for instance, is among the most common psychological effects of idiopathic scoliosis that children face. Anxiety is another emotional effect resulting from increased norepinephrine levels and body image concerns. Other emotional effects include;
Relationship Difficulties
It can be challenging for children patients to interact with others when their spine curves set them apart. Wearing a brace or an uneven posture makes them feel disliked by their peers. Most kid patients will avoid interacting, while others will defensively avoid their peers.
On the other hand, pain and discomfort can make these kids avoid social activities like games, trips, outdoor activities, train rides, long flights, etc. They spend less time dating and socializing or participating in recreational activities than their peers.
Emotional Problems
Most patients who are yet to outgrow their scoliosis struggles express feelings of emptiness. Girls, for instance, have higher chances of having suicidal thoughts than their male counterparts who actualize the act. Scoliosis weighs on their emotions. They try to hide from the world to deal with the pain.
Emotional disturbances among patients may lead to substance use, with a higher percentage of boys than girls resorting to alcohol. It has been discovered that girls living with this condition are three times more likely to indulge in drugs and substance abuse. Therefore, there is a need to open up and talk about the emotional sides of this condition and offer them a chance to open up about how their journey has been.
Low Self-esteem
Having an abnormal body can impact a child’s self-esteem. Girls more than boys would develop body image issues. Secretly, they may feel ashamed and frustrated by the physical deformity that makes them feel unattractive. It gets worse when they are teased for their differences.
- Other possible psychological effects that scoliosis has on children that you should watch include:
- Sustained anger or irritability
- Low energy levels
- Reduced performance
- Change in routine
- Reckless behavior
What We Offer at Creekside Chiropractic – Salt Lake City, UT
At Creekside Chiropractic, our team understands that getting the right information and effective treatment are vital in addressing scoliosis and the associated long-term psychological effects.
During your visit, our physicians will diagnose the symptoms of scoliosis and set up a treatment plan based on non-surgical interventions to prevent it from further curving. We will continue monitoring the patient to ensure complete recovery and that they live their lives to the fullest.
Contact us today or visit our clinic in Salt Lake City, UT, and we will be glad to offer you a lasting solution.
References
https://scoliosisclinic.co.uk/blog/is-scoliosis-a-risk-factor-for-mental-health/
https://journals.eco-vector.com/turner/article/view/11266
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/scoliosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20350716
