Each year, the month of June is dedicated to scoliosis awareness. National Scoliosis Awareness Month seeks to highlight the need for education about and early detection of the condition, as well as bringing together patients, their families and caregivers in local events and activities designed to raise awareness of scoliosis.

The main characteristic of scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine; the word 'scoliosis' comes from a Greek root word meaning 'bent'. While scoliosis can be congenital or neuromuscular in origin, the vast majority of cases (80%) are idiopathic.

The spine has natural curves that assist in the maintenance of upright balance and support the weight of the upper body and head; the lumbar and neck sections have an inward (lordotic) curve while the thoracic spine has an outward (kyphotic) curve. The sideways curve that characterises scoliosis results in a spinal imbalance that can cause many painful and sometimes disabling symptoms.

Scoliosis can affect anybody regardless of their age, gender or ethnic background. That said, adolescents (the majority of which are female) and people over the age of 60 are most at risk. The Scoliosis Research Society estimates that one in six children with scoliosis will require active treatment for their curved spine, which may sometimes include surgery. Diagnosing scoliosis as early as possible is key to preventing more serious issues in later life and this is one of the key aims of National Scoliosis Awareness Month.

Patients with scoliosis often display a posture which leans to one side and their waist, hips and/or shoulders may be at an uneven level. The condition can also cause the rib cage to protrude on one side and often leads to pain, which can be severe. In some cases, the function of the lungs and heart can be impaired.

Treatments for scoliosis vary widely and are dependent on a number of factors such as the severity, type and likelihood of progression of the condition over time. The patient's age is also a determining factor. Wearing dynamic compression garments such as those from our SDO^® collection can help, limiting the progression of the curvature while relieving pain.

Our made-to-measure SDO^® garments are made from high quality Lycra^® material to ensure comfort and allow natural movement while encouraging muscle activation and motor learning. SDO^® suits, vests and leotards can be supplied with a wide range of specialist reinforcement panels, allowing us to cater to specific cases with accuracy and precision, please view our new SDO^® order forms which indicate these specialist scoliosis panels.

Please browse the Jobskin^® website to discover more details about our made-to-measure SDO^® garments and do not hesitate to get in touch for further information, advice and support.

Image credit: Engin Akyurt, 2019. Available at: Pexels