Severe scoliosis, particularly the type that involves the chest, may cause medical problems. The distortion of the chest decreases it volume and, if marked, will reduce the effective respiratory function. Since blood must be pumped through the lungs to absorb oxygen, more pressure may be required. This can put a strain on the heart. Being a teenager or adolescent is a difficult time psychologically.
Interpersonal relationships change, particularly with the opposite sex.
The child's body changes to that of an adult. Many of these changes occur in the trunk, the area where scoliosis causes deformity. Therefore, a natural preoccupation with body image may become exaggerated by worry that the spinal deformity or brace will not be kindly accepted by friends. To a teenager, peer acceptance is important. A major cause of brace treatment failure is directly related to this psychological pressure.