Living With a Spinal Deformity

Adolescence is a sensitive period associated with rapid physical change, growing self-esteem and concern over physical appearance. The adolescent with a spinal deformity has to deal with both age- appropriate developmental tasks and the treatment of a potentially disabling and deforming disease, which carries a social stigma. The book highlights the impact the deformity has on the individual''s life and provides an insight into the psychological difficulties faced by these adolescents and their families. This work emphasises the importance of addressing the expectations the adolescents and families have from health professionals and the need for involving them in their treatment decisions.