ScoliPod

21: From Self-Doubt to Self-Acceptance — Eli Yeung’s Scoliosis Journey

In this powerful episode, Dr. Laura and Dr. Beth sit down with special guest Eli Yeung, a model based in Belfast, Northern Ireland, who shares his deeply personal journey living with scoliosis and undergoing spinal fusion surgery. Eli opens up about discovering his scoliosis as a teenager, navigating diagnosis with limited awareness, and ultimately facing a rapidly progressing curve that led to surgery in early adulthood. While he initially brushed off the emotional impact, he reflects on how unprocessed feelings around body image and self-worth resurfaced later in life—especially as he entered the modeling industry. This conversation dives into the often-overlooked mental and emotional side of scoliosis, particularly for men. Eli shares candidly about the challenges of comparison, confidence, and visibility—what it feels like to live in a body that doesn’t match perceived ideals, and how that shaped his identity both personally and professionally. Through modeling and sharing his story on social media, Eli began a journey of self-acceptance—learning to embrace his body, scars, and asymmetries rather than hide them. He discusses how vulnerability became a tool for healing, and how speaking openly about scoliosis helped him reconnect with parts of himself he had long ignored. The episode also explores: * Life after spinal fusion, including recovery, pain, and long-term adaptation * The role of movement and fitness in maintaining strength and confidence * The nuanced conversation around whether scoliosis or spinal fusion is considered a “disability” * The importance of representation—especially for men with scoliosis * How staying active and finding enjoyable forms of exercise can support long-term quality of life Eli leaves listeners with a powerful message: scoliosis does not define you. Through self-compassion, creativity, and movement, it’s possible to build a strong, fulfilling life—on your own terms. Whether you’re living with scoliosis, supporting someone who is, or simply looking for an honest conversation about body image and resilience, this episode is both inspiring and deeply relatable. Follow Eli for his relatable and hilarious spinal fusion and scoliosis content @oops_itseli [https://www.instagram.com/oops_itseli] on Instagram.  Join the conversation: Have questions about scoliosis-specific PT or want help finding a trained therapist? Reach out to Dr. Laura [https://www.drlauraglazebrook.com/contact-me] or Dr. Beth [https://strengthandspine.com/contact-us]  And don’t forget to follow, rate, and share ScoliPod to help more people discover evidence-based scoliosis care. Finally, don't forget to subscribe to ScoliPod on your favorite pod catcher so you never miss an episode! * Listen on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scolipod/id1843409113] * Listen on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/0c7vTDeOHgTpwBK7Djk7Hx?si=1fb27ae8b7d245f3] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2541489/support]

20: Running + Scoliosis: What the Research Really Says (with Dr. Jenn Warren)

Is running actually bad for scoliosis—or is that just a myth? Join Dr. Beth and Dr. Laura for a fascinating conversation with repeat guest Dr. Jenn Warren on what we really know about running with scoliosis. Dr. Jenn is a scoliosis- specific physical therapist and running specialist, joining once more to drop some knowledge on what we know, and what you should know as a runner with scoliosis (or someone who works with them). From teen athletes on the track team to adults returning to running later in life, this conversation tackles one of the most common fears in the scoliosis community: Is it safe to run? You’ll learn: * Why running is not inherently dangerous for people with scoliosis * Key considerations for teen athletes, especially during growth and puberty * What Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S) is—and why it matters for runners * How to spot red flags like fatigue, recurring injuries, or under-fueling * The role of strength training and cross-training in protecting your spine and improving performance * How to approach running after spinal fusion * Why listening to your body matters more than following rigid rules Together let's unpack the importance of mindset, resilience, and giving yourself permission to move with confidence. Bottom line: Your body is adaptable, capable, and stronger than you think. Resources & next steps: If you're interested in a deeper dive on this topic, check out this blog: * What is the pelvic floor? [https://www.drlauraglazebrook.com/blog/the-pelvic-floor] RED-S (Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport): * Learn about RED-S (Stanford FASTR) [https://fastr.stanford.edu/education/relative-energy-deficiency-in-sport-red-s/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] * RED-S overview & educational resources (Stanford FASTR) [https://fastr.stanford.edu/education/reds/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] Helpful Overview Articles: * Medical overview of RED-S symptoms & causes [https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/red-s?utm_source=chatgpt.com] * Mayo Clinic: RED-S and injury risk in athletes [https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/women-health/understanding-relative-energy-deficiency-in-sport-red-s-risks-of-eating-disorders-in-athletes/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] If you’re curious about working virtually with a scoliosis-trained pro, connect with Dr. Laura or Dr. Beth:  * Dr. Laura's website [https://www.drlauraglazebrook.com/] * Dr. Beth’s website [https://strengthandspine.com/]  Join the conversation: Have questions about scoliosis-specific PT or want help finding a trained therapist? Reach out to Dr. Laura [https://www.drlauraglazebrook.com/contact-me] or Dr. Beth [https://strengthandspine.com/contact-us]. And don’t forget to follow, rate, and share ScoliPod to help more people discover evidence-based scoliosis care. Finally, don't forget to subscribe to ScoliPod on your favorite pod catcher so you never miss an episode! * Listen on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scolipod/id1843409113] * Listen on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/0c7vTDeOHgTpwBK7Djk7Hx?si=1fb27ae8b7d245f3] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2541489/support]

19. Hypermobility + Scoliosis: What Your Team Could Miss feat. Dr. Kate

In this episode, Dr. Laura and Dr. Beth welcome their guest, Dr. Kate Bacigalupo, PT, hypermobility specialist and co-founder of the Elements Collective, for a powerful conversation about the often-overlooked connection between scoliosis and hypermobility. Dr. Kate shares how her career began with a single patient with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), which has shaped her clinical focus for the past decade. Now practicing at Physio Elements in Long Island and co-leading the virtual Elements Collective, she bridges the gap between connective tissue disorders, chronic pain, pelvic health, and scoliosis care. Listen in to learn: * Why hypermobility is more common in people with scoliosis (and vice versa) * The challenges of diagnosing hypermobility using tools like the Beighton Score * How chronic pain and nervous system sensitivity complicate treatment * Why traditional “tighten everything” rehab approaches may backfire * The critical role of proprioception and breathwork in restoring stability * How scoliosis-specific exercise needs to be adapted for hypermobile patients * Why some patients feel worse after traditional scoliosis therapy * The importance of collaborative, nuanced, individualized care Dr. Kate introduces the Elements Collective, a 12-week virtual program designed to help hypermobile individuals build strength, trust their bodies, and break the chronic pain cycle through mindful movement and nervous system-informed training. This conversation is essential listening for: * People living with scoliosis and hypermobility * Parents of hypermobile kids and teens * Providers treating complex spine conditions * Anyone who has felt unseen or misunderstood in traditional rehab settings In summary, if you have both scoliosis and hypermobility, your treatment must reflect both. Education, advocacy, and individualized care are game changers. About Our Guest: Dr. Kate Bacigalupo, PT, specializes in hypermobility, chronic pain, and connective tissue disorders. She practices in Long Island at Physio Elements and co-founded the Elements Collective, a virtual wellness platform focused on nervous system-informed movement and hypermobility education. Work with Dr. Kate: * Virtually via The Elements Collective [https://www.elementscollectiveny.com/] * Locally via PhysioElements [https://www.physioelementsny.com/]  Connect with Kate on Instagram: @thehyperphysio_kate [https://www.instagram.com/thehyperphysio_kate] Tune in for an eye-opening discussion about why hypermobility and scoliosis may be more connected than we think — and how better awareness can change outcomes for so many.  Join the conversation: Have questions about scoliosis-specific PT or want help finding a trained therapist? Reach out to Dr. Laura [https://www.drlauraglazebrook.com/contact-me] or Dr. Beth [https://strengthandspine.com/contact-us]  And don’t forget to follow, rate, and share ScoliPod to help more people discover evidence-based scoliosis care. Finally, don't forget to subscribe to ScoliPod on your favorite pod catcher so you never miss an episode! * Listen on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scolipod/id1843409113] * Listen on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/0c7vTDeOHgTpwBK7Djk7Hx?si=1fb27ae8b7d245f3] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2541489/support] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2541489/support]

18: From Patient to Expert — Bonus Episode feat. Dr. Laura

This special bonus episode contains audio from the Columbia University Annual Pediatric Scoliosis Symposium, where Dr. Laura was invited to present on her lived experience, from being a fearful young girl in a doctor's office, to becoming an expert in the field advocating for others with spinal conditions.  Diagnosed with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis at age 10 and undergoing spinal fusion surgery at 11, Dr. Laura opens up about the emotional weight of that experience — the fear, uncertainty, and lasting impact of navigating a major diagnosis as a child. She reflects on what care looked like then, how treatment options have evolved, and why so many families still receive inconsistent guidance today. Drawing from both lived experience and clinical expertise through the Rigo Concept and PSSE (Physiotherapeutic Scoliosis-Specific Exercises), Dr. Laura discusses the urgent need for collaborative, evidence-based, team-centered care — and why emotional and psychological support must be part of the treatment conversation. She also shares what it’s like now raising a child showing early signs of scoliosis, how early intervention and bracing have progressed, and why language matters when discussing this condition. Themes of this discussion: * Dr. Laura’s personal story of scoliosis diagnosis and spinal fusion * The emotional experience of being diagnosed as a child * The importance of early referral and proactive treatment * Common misconceptions about bracing and PSSE * The role of collaborative care: physicians, PTs, orthotists, mental health providers, and peer support * The psychological impact of scoliosis in adolescence * Raising a child with early scoliosis signs and following current research * The importance of neutral, patient-centered language * How kids with scoliosis become adults with scoliosis — and what that means for long-term care * Building online community, advocacy, and accessible resources for families Resources Mentioned: * Scoliosis Research Society (SRS) [https://www.srs.org] * SOSORT [https://sosort.org] * Curvy Girls [https://www.curvygirlsscoliosis.com] – Peer-led support for girls with scoliosis * Higgy Bears [https://higgybears.com] – Virtual support and education resources Key quote: "Scoliosis can be both our origin story, and our superpower." If you’re curious about working virtually with a scoliosis-trained pro, connect with Dr. Laura or Dr. Beth:  * Dr. Laura's website [https://www.drlauraglazebrook.com/] * Dr. Beth’s website [https://strengthandspine.com/]  Join the conversation: Have questions about scoliosis-specific PT or want help finding a trained therapist? Reach out to Dr. Laura [https://www.drlauraglazebrook.com/contact-me] or Dr. Beth [https://strengthandspine.com/contact-us]  And don’t forget to follow, rate, and share ScoliPod to help more people discover evidence-based scoliosis care. Finally, don't forget to subscribe to ScoliPod on your favorite pod catcher so you never miss an episode! * Listen on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scolipod/id1843409113] * Listen on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/0c7vTDeOHgTpwBK7Djk7Hx?si=1fb27ae8b7d245f3] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2541489/support] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2541489/support]

17: Come to BioniCon: A New Event for the Scoliosis Community

Living with scoliosis or spinal fusion can sometimes feel isolating—especially when you grow up without knowing anyone else who shares your experience. In this episode, Dr. Beth and Dr. Laura talk about the importance of finding your community living with scoliosis and spinal fusion. They reflect on their own journeys, including how neither of them knew many people with scoliosis growing up and how social media eventually helped them connect with others who truly understood their experiences. They also discuss how sharing stories, comparing experiences, and learning from others can be incredibly validating and healing. The conversation highlights the growing scoliosis community both online and in person—including local meetups and the upcoming BioniCon [https://www.thebionicproject.com/bionicon], a first-of-its-kind conference designed specifically for adults with scoliosis and spinal fusion. Learn more about the Bionic Project [https://www.thebionicproject.com/] and its founder, Meredith Montana [https://www.thebionicproject.com/about-2].  If you’ve ever felt like you’re navigating scoliosis alone, this episode is a reminder that there is a community out there—and that connection can make a powerful difference. Topics in This Episode * Why scoliosis can feel isolating—especially at the time of diagnosis * Growing up without knowing others with scoliosis * How social media helped build a global scoliosis community * The value of sharing experiences with others who “get it” * In-person meetups and events like Spine & Wine * The healing power of community connection * An introduction to BioniCon [https://www.thebionicproject.com/bionicon], a new conference for adults with scoliosis and spinal fusion * What attendees can expect at the event (education, movement sessions, and community activities) BioniCon – April 17–19 | Philadelphia, PA [https://www.thebionicproject.com/bionicon] Tickets available until March 31st!!! [https://www.thebionicproject.com/bionicon] BioniCon is a new conference created for adults living with scoliosis and spinal fusion. The event will include: * Educational talks from scoliosis professionals and advocates * Movement sessions including yoga, Pilates, and strength training * Community activities and social events * Opportunities to connect with others who share similar experiences Dr. Beth will be presenting on getting started with strength training for scoliosis and spinal fusion, and Dr. Laura will be presenting on the connection between scoliosis and the pelvic floor, along with a session on pregnancy with scoliosis and spinal fusion. Connect With Us If you’re planning to attend BioniCon, send us an email at scolipodcast@gmail.com —we’d love to meet you in person! Finally, don't forget to subscribe to ScoliPod on your favorite pod catcher so you never miss an episode! * Listen on Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scolipod/id1843409113] * Listen on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/0c7vTDeOHgTpwBK7Djk7Hx?si=1fb27ae8b7d245f3] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2541489/support] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2541489/support]