The other kids think its cool! I have been wearing a brace for the past year, since I was diagnosed with Scoliosis. When other kids at school notice I am wearing it, they ask me questions, and I tell them all about my brace and Scoliosis. Some of them have never heard of it before, but after we talk, they usually see it as no big deal, which is basically the way I feel about it too. For the most part, I just feel like a regular 13 year old kid!

Mom and Dad have been so supportive of me. Not to mention the fact that my five younger brothers and sisters treat me like any kid would treat an older sister. My 2-year-old brother, Parker, loves to punch me for fun, because I can scarcely feel his balled up fists through my corrective device.

I first learned that I had Scoliosis when I tried out for the track team in seventh grade. During the pre-tryout physical examination, an abnormal curve was found in my spine and my parents were informed. I was taken to see the pediatrician, and then to an orthopedist. I was a little worried at first because I did not know what was going to happen, but my parents reassured me and my doctor answered all of my questions. Since my curve was not severe, a brace was determined to be the best course of action.

I did not get to run track that year, because running made my back hurt too much. I do, however, play tennis, softball and soccer, and I am looking forward to participating in school athletics. The brace that I wear 16 hours a day causes my skin to be sore sometimes, but it also makes my back feel straighter and more supported. It was hard getting used to sleeping in it at first and I also had trouble getting in and out of the narrow desks at school. True, the brace is a slight nuisance, but it is not much more than that. I have one more year to wear the brace before my doctor thinks my bones will have reached maximum growth and the danger for the curve in my spine to get worse has passed.

Published: April 24, 2002

Updated: February 25, 2005

As you read this please keep in mind that all treatment and outcome results are specific to the individual patient. Results may vary. Complications, such as infection, blood loss, bowel or bladder problems, are some of the potential adverse risks. Please consult your physician for a complete list of indications, warnings, precautions, adverse events, clinical results, and other important medical information.

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