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Medical experts have called for heightened public awareness, early detection, and integrated psychological support for scoliosis patients to ease the physical and emotional burdens of the spinal condition.
The call was made during a specialised training programme, organised by the Lagos State General Hospital, Gbagada, in partnership with the Scoliosis Focus Foundation.
The event focused on building healthcare workers’ capacity to conduct early screenings using scoliometers and ensure timely specialist referrals.
Founder of the Scoliosis Focus Foundation, Dr Ayomide Akintan-Adejuwon, emphasised that early identification prevents complex complications. He called on government and private entities to help fund scoliosis surgeries.
A consultant family physician, Dr Abideen Gbolahan, who reassured the public that scoliosis is manageable, called for an end to myths and social stigma surrounding the condition. Dr Adebowale Adedayo led practical assessment sessions, while Dr Shobode Mutaleeb presented successful surgical case studies.
Addressing the mental health aspect, a clinical psychologist, Damilare Ashani, and a therapist, Titi Akintan, warned that adolescents with scoliosis frequently suffer from depression, low self-esteem, and social withdrawal due to body image concerns. They urged parents and healthcare providers to monitor subtle behavioural changes, and emphasised that comprehensive treatment must address both physical spinal curvature and emotional well-being.
