For pediatric patients with scoliosis and other spine conditions, the burden of physical symptoms and rigorous medical care—whether this means surgery, medication, bracing, or a combination of treatments—can place a significant emotional and psychological strain on them.
In the US, an estimated 1 in 6 children suffer from a mental disorder, and the occurrence is even higher in children with chronic medical illnesses*. Specifically, children and teens dealing with scoliosis tend to have higher rates of:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Sleep problems
- Eating disorders
- Body image concerns **
At Och Spine at NewYork-Presbyterian, our goal is to integrate compassionate mental health support with cutting-edge spine care.
*Psychological and Psychiatric Comorbidities in Youth with Serious Physical Illness
** Pediatric Spine Surgeons Report High Mental Health Burden and Limited Support for Scoliosis Patients
