My Scoliosis Story – From Silent Struggle to Supportive Strength
At my wellness visit in December 2021, while still navigating the aftermath of the pandemic and adjusting to the challenges of 6th grade — the beginning of Junior High in my town — I received a life-changing diagnosis: Idiopathic Scoliosis.
As a competitive dancer and a growing teen, the news was devastating. I felt a wave of emotions I wasn’t prepared for: shame, fear, isolation, and a sudden sense of being “different.” I didn’t fully understand what scoliosis meant at the time, but I knew it was going to change my life.
After an initial consultation with a Pediatric Orthopedic Specialist and a second opinion at CHOP, I was fitted for my first Boston Brace to try to slow the progression of my “S Curve.” My doctor told me I needed to wear it for 16 hours a day. I felt panic and relief all at once. I was glad there was a plan, but I didn’t want to wear the brace to school. How could I get 16 hours in without compromising my comfort, privacy, or social life?
When I first put on the brace, I felt imprisoned in my own body. It was physically uncomfortable and emotionally suffocating. My parents did everything they could to support me, and together we found a routine: I wore the brace after school, after dance, and overnight. I rarely hit the full 16 hours — more like 12 to 14.
Over the next three years, I wore three different Boston Braces. I also practiced Schroth physical therapy every day at home and attended weekly in-person sessions. In July 2024, I received the news I had longed for — I was done growing and officially released from brace-wearing.
When I was first diagnosed, my top curve measured 33 degrees. By the time I was released, it had progressed to 43 degrees on top and 31 degrees on the bottom — despite 3 years of bracing. My doctor told me that scoliosis can continue to progress, even into adulthood, and that staying active and practicing Schroth would be lifelong tools to help manage it.
I know I’m lucky. I haven’t needed surgery. But every day, I still fear I might. As a 5’1″ competitive dancer, I put constant strain on my spine. I live with daily physical pain — but also emotional pain from the stigma that still surrounds scoliosis.
I do look a little different due to my “S Curve.” Over the years, I’ve heard comments about why certain costumes or uniforms fit me differently. My quiet, embarrassed response used to be, “It’s just my body shape.”
But now, at 15 and approaching 16, I’ve realized something: I am strong, I am resilient, I am beautiful and I am not ashamed!
Most people don’t know what scoliosis really is. For many, it’s just that awkward test during gym class once a year. But for those of us living with it, scoliosis is part of who we are — every day. And I want to make sure no one feels as alone as I once did.
With the support of my high school administration, my family, and my closest friends, I started the Setting Scoliosis Straight Club at MHS. Our mission is to raise awareness, educate others, and create a space for support and understanding.
I’m incredibly proud to announce that this June — during Scoliosis Awareness Month — we will be hosting the first-ever Scoliosis Walk in our area. This event will not only raise awareness in our community, but also funds for research, education, and resources for those who cannot afford braces or surgery.
Scoliosis has shaped me — both physically and emotionally — but it has not broken me. Instead, it’s given me purpose. I’m ready to tell my story and stand beside others who are struggling silently.
Together, we are Setting Scoliosis Straight — one step, one story, and one spine at a time.
Read more patient stories like this from around the world.
