#Scoliosis: an analysis of patient perception of scoliosis on TikTok

Abstract

Background

Social media presents an opportunity to analyze popular opinion about patient experiences. Idiopathic scoliosis is a spinal pathology commonly identified in younger patients who are the largest users of social media.

Objective

To analyze posts on the social media platform, TikTok, to better understand the scoliotic patient condition.

Methods

TikTok posts were searched manually by screening for “#Scoliosis.” Variables assessed included number of likes, conveyed tone, gender, activities of daily living, incisional scar, imaging, involved spine level, spinal curvature, pain, formal physical therapy, multiple operations/reoperation, brace use, self-image, mobility, and educational/awareness posts. Number of responses per category were evaluated for the total they represented and the percentage of available posts containing those elements. Odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were calculated for each collected variable.

Results

More posts were positive than negative (P < 0.001) and from female users than male users (P < 0.001). Self-image was the most prevalent subject, with many posts not mentioning activities of daily living, incisional scars, imaging, pain, physical therapy, timing, awareness/education, or involved spine levels.

Conclusions

More females post about scoliosis than males, with most posts containing positive self-image–related themes. This may represent a positive public attitude about scoliosis; however, further research is needed.

Keywords:

• Scoliosis
• scoliosis perception
• social media
• spinal fusion
• TikTok

Disclosure statement/Funding

The authors report no funding or conflicts of interest.