Body Image and Body Schema · Scoping Review

Body Image and Body Schema in Adolescents with Idiopathic Scoliosis

Appearance Worry Is Real, Not Vanity

CAT-13 · Adolescent Psychology & Peer SupportEVD-BScoping ReviewPatients / Families

Source · Bertuccelli M., Cantele F., Masiero S. Adolesc Res Rev. 2023;8:97–115. · doi:10.1007/s40894-022-00187-4 · Last reviewed 2026-06

This material helps make clear that AIS is not only the Cobb angle on an X-ray, but may also affect an adolescent's perception of their own body, confidence, dressing, socializing, and quality of life; body- image problems are real, but do not mean the child is “being dramatic,” nor that the body is “wrong.” The right way to support is not comparison, shame, or forced acceptance, but to treat appearance distress as part of the treatment and growth process, and handle it seriously together with follow-up, the brace, PSSE, psychological support, and family communication.

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This page is a plain-words guide to a published paper — for health education and doctor–patient communication only, not a diagnosis or treatment advice. If you think you might have scoliosis, see an orthopedic or spine specialist.