Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yasin Yurt, Vice Dean of Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) Health Sciences Faculty, released a statement within the scope of scoliosis awareness month. The statement by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yurt is as follows:
“Month of June is recognized as the “Scoliosis Awareness Month” aiming to raise global awareness on scoliosis. Scoliosis, which particularly affects children and adolescents during their growth years, is a three-dimensional spinal deformity characterized by a lateral curvature of the spine and its rotation around its own axis.
Scoliosis may remain undetected during its early stages because it often does not cause any pain. However, without appropriate treatment, the curvature can worsen over time, resulting in postural deformities, aesthetic concerns, diminished physical function, and, in advanced cases, respiratory complications. For this reason, early detection and diagnosis are vital.
Families are advised to consult to a medical professional if their children aged 10–18 years exhibit uneven shoulder heights, one shoulder blade that appears more prominent than the other, asymmetry in the waistline, or a protrusion on the back during a forward-bending test. The early signs of scoliosis can be detected through a simple physical examination. As part of a thesis study conducted in 2023 at the Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation at EMU Faculty of Health Sciences, we identified the presence of scoliosis in 5 out of every 100 secondary school students in the Famagusta region.
Nowadays, physiotherapy holds great importance in treatment of scoliosis. In particular, scoliosis-specific exercise programs that are initiated at an early stage, individually tailored, and based on scientific evidence can help slow the progression of the spinal curvature or keep it under control. Implemented by physiotherapists, these approaches aim to support proper spinal alignment while improving posture, muscle strength, respiratory capacity, and overall quality of life. At the Prosthetics, Orthotics and Biomechanics Center operating within the EMU Faculty of Health Sciences, scoliosis-specific exercise therapy and, when indicated, brace treatment for individuals diagnosed with scoliosis have been provided for many years by our expert academic staff.
Contrary to the common belief in society, not every individual diagnosed with scoliosis requires surgery. Thanks to early diagnosis and appropriate conservative treatment methods, many children and adolescents with scoliosis are able to continue their daily lives actively and maintain a good quality of life.
As part of June Scoliosis Awareness Month, we encourage families, educators, and healthcare providers to stay informed about the warning signs of scoliosis. It should never be forgotten that greater awareness leads to earlier diagnosis, while earlier diagnosis provides the opportunity for more successful treatment and a healthier future.
Do not neglect your spine, pay attention to your posture, and recognize scoliosis early!”