Scoliosis most often appears to be just a bone condition because it is most evident through a curve in the spine, but it is also a neuromuscular one. Motor-sensory nerves in the upper and lower trunk fail to give and receive the right messages from the brain and vice-versa about the proper position and strength required by movements of the back.
This disorder has multiple effects on the person, ranging from physical pains to emotional stress. Many patients also experience dents in their self-esteem as most people would tend to judge their physical appearance without regard to the difficulties brought about by scoliosis.
Here are ways by which you can help your partner with scoliosis to overcome the disorder:
Seek Professional Remedies
Three main treatment options are available for scoliosis, namely: Observation, Non-Operative Treatment, and Surgery. Observation is for patients with mild scoliosis characterized by smaller curves. Non-operative treatment includes braces, which does not intend to correct the curves, but instead prevent them from growing into bigger ones. Surgery is the treatment that fixes the curves via metal implants in the spine. These implants will hold the spine until it goes back to the safe correction form.
It is crucial that you seek medical help for your partner’s scoliosis considering that not all forms of scoliosis are the same, which is why treatments also vary depending on the case at hand.
Start An Exercise Routine
You can try a one-arm stretch with your partner. It allows better blood circulation and allows the bones and the spine to flex, thereby avoiding stiffness. You can also do a plank position, giving your back a good stretch. However, be careful not to cause discomfort in the back. Lastly, you can try a split stance while stretching your arms as this allows the torso to maintain an upright position.
People with scoliosis experience difficulty in moving towards one direction because of the curves in their spine. Therefore, it is essential you consult with a specialist first before trying out an exercise routine.
Understand Their Pain
You must recognize when your partner tells you about the pain of scoliosis; it’s not something you can brush off as petty. The nerve pains of scoliosis are sharp. It feels like they’re being electrified. They also experience muscle spasms that they can’t get rid of even with a good massage. It is the effect of their vertebrae coming very close together at the point where the spine curves, thereby squeezing in the nerves.
On your part, never slap your partner on the back. Be careful not to do it even accidentally because the back pains are unbearable. When it comes to carrying things, be thoughtful enough to give a helping hand. When sleeping, allow them to get the optimum position that will not strain their backs. These small acts of being considerate mean a lot to scoliosis patients.
Keep A Positive And Encouraging Attitude
On the more emotional side, be patient in reminding your partner that he/she is not alone in the fight of living with scoliosis. Encourage them that their self-worth can never be defined regarding one physical disorder and that there’s more that they can do despite their medical condition.
Be careful not to speak condescending words such as hunchback or deformity. Also, be wary about the early warning signs of depression or anxiety. People with scoliosis are prone to self-pity and suicidal thoughts, based on studies. Instead, fill their hearts with love and acceptance, keep them motivated, and support them in their aspirations.
The need for people with scoliosis for the support and encouragement of a loved one is not very different from the need of everyone else for acceptance. Don’t hesitate to give your partner and loved one that assurance that you will be with them in and through the journey to overcome scoliosis.
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