Standing Tall Together: Recognizing Scoliosis Awareness Month
By Apex Spine and Neurosurgery
Each year, the month of June marks Scoliosis Awareness Month—a time to educate, support, and advocate for individuals living with scoliosis (National Scoliosis Foundation, n.d.). Scoliosis is a condition that causes a sideways curvature of the spine, often developing during the growth spurt just before puberty. While some cases are mild and may go unnoticed for years, others can become severe and lead to chronic pain, physical deformity, and even respiratory issues.
At Apex Spine and Neurosurgery, we believe awareness is the first step to improving outcomes. With early detection, timely evaluation, and personalized treatment, patients living with scoliosis can lead healthy, active lives.
What Is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis is defined as a spinal curve greater than 10 degrees on an X-ray. The curve can take on a “C” or “S” shape and may occur in the thoracic (mid-back), lumbar (lower back), or both regions of the spine. The cause of most scoliosis cases—around 80%—is idiopathic, meaning the exact reason is unknown. Other types of scoliosis may be congenital (present at birth), neuromuscular (related to conditions like cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy), or degenerative (seen in older adults due to spine wear and tear) (AANS, 2024).
Who Is Affected?
Scoliosis can affect anyone, but it’s most commonly diagnosed in children and adolescents between the ages of 10 and 15. Females are more likely to experience curve progression, and severe scoliosis can impact overall quality of life, causing:
- Visible changes in posture
- Back or shoulder pain
- Uneven shoulders, waist, or hips
- Limited range of motion
- Breathing difficulties in advanced cases
According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, an estimated 6 to 9 million Americans are affected by scoliosis. Despite its prevalence, scoliosis is often misunderstood or dismissed, which is why awareness is critical (AANS, 2024, John Hopkins Medicine, n.d.).
How Is Scoliosis Treated?
At Apex Spine and Neurosurgery, we offer a full spectrum of scoliosis care tailored to each patient’s specific condition. Our treatment plans are determined by the severity of the curve, the patient’s age, and symptoms.
Non-Surgical Treatments:
For mild to moderate cases, we often recommend:
- Bracing: To prevent further curvature in growing children
- Physical therapy: To strengthen muscles, improve posture, and manage pain
- Monitoring: With regular imaging and checkups to watch for curve progression
Surgical Intervention:
For more severe or worsening cases, surgical correction may be necessary. Our board-certified neurosurgeons specialize in spinal fusion surgery, minimally invasive spinal correction, and complex revision procedures. Surgery is typically considered when the spinal curve exceeds 40–50 degrees and is affecting quality of life.
Why Awareness Matters
Early detection is key. Scoliosis is often first noticed by parents, teachers, or pediatricians. That’s why community awareness, school screenings, and regular check-ups are vital. When scoliosis is identified early, there are more options for conservative treatment, reducing the need for surgical intervention (Columbia University Irving Medical Center, 2021).
Scoliosis Awareness Month is a reminder to look closer, ask questions, and listen to our bodies—and to each other. Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or simply want to make a difference, spreading awareness can change lives.
Standing Tall at Apex
At Apex Spine and Neurosurgery, we’re proud to stand with patients and families affected by scoliosis. Our goal is to provide compassionate, expert care that empowers individuals to live full, active lives—no matter their diagnosis.
If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of scoliosis or has been recently diagnosed, we encourage you to reach out to our team for an evaluation. Together, we can stand tall—today and every day.
Sources:
8 facts to know about scoliosis. Columbia University Irving Medical Center. (2021, July 12). https://www.cuimc.columbia.edu/news/8-facts-know-about-scoliosis
Nsf. (2025, June 3). Awareness month – national scoliosis foundation. National Scoliosis Foundation – NSF is a patient-led nonprofit organization dedicated to helping children, parents, adults, and health-care providers to understand the complexities of spinal deformities such as scoliosis. https://www.scoliosis.org/awareness-month/
Scoliosis. AANS. (2024, April 30). https://www.aans.org/patients/conditions-treatments/scoliosis/
Scoliosis. Johns Hopkins Medicine. (n.d.). https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/scoliosis