26th June 2025 National: Aadya, a 15-year-old student from Noida, had just finished her Class 10 board exams when she was diagnosed with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis, a condition where the spine curves abnormally. The diagnosis came as a shock, as the condition can lead to long-term physical issues if left untreated.
Aadya underwent spinal correction surgery at a hospital in Faridabad. The procedure involved advanced tools and techniques to ensure safety and precision. She was discharged within five days and returned to school just three weeks after surgery. She has since resumed her regular classes.
“When Aadya came to us, her spinal curvature had already reached nearly 50 degrees, well beyond the surgical threshold. The deformity was not just cosmetic; left untreated, it could impair lung and heart function,” said Dr. Tarun Suri, Head of Spine Surgery at Amrita Hospital Faridabad. “For a young girl facing board exams and social pressures, we knew the emotional stakes were as high as the medical ones. Our team’s goal was to offer not just clinical excellence but a holistic recovery.”
Scoliosis affects about 1 in 10 children, yet it often goes unnoticed. It is most common between the ages of 10 and 15. It is seen much more often in girls than boys, with a ratio of about 7:1. In severe cases, where the spine curves more than 40 degrees, surgery is usually needed. Despite its prevalence, nearly 80% of scoliosis cases have no known cause, making early detection critical. However, due to a lack of awareness and the absence of routine screenings in schools, most cases are caught too late.
“At first, we thought the curve in her back was just bad posture,” recalled Aadya’s mother. “We had no idea it was something so serious. The word ‘scoliosis’ was terrifying, and the idea of surgery during her board exams? Unimaginable. But today, seeing her walk tall and smile again, we know we made the right decision.”
The condition impacts not only physical health but also mental well-being. A study published in 2024 found that over half of adolescents with scoliosis also reported emotional challenges, including anxiety, low self-esteem, and body image concerns.
“Every parent, every schoolteacher should know what scoliosis looks like,” said Dr. Suri. “Early detection can prevent years of physical and psychological trauma.”
Cases like Aadya’s highlight the importance of timely intervention and increased awareness about scoliosis, especially during early adolescence.
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