Scoliosis (abnormal curvature of the spine) can cause chronic pain, reduced mobility, breathing difficulties, fatigue, and difficulty with daily tasks. Whether your scoliosis is managed conservatively or you have had spinal fusion surgery, if it affects your daily activities, you can claim PIP.
Which Activities Does Scoliosis Affect?
Preparing Food (Activity 1) – Back pain preventing standing long enough to cook. Reduced range of motion making it hard to reach cupboards, bend to the oven, or lift heavy items. Pain when stirring, chopping, or any repetitive movement.
Washing and Bathing (Activity 4) – Difficulty reaching all parts of your body due to spinal rigidity (especially after fusion surgery). Pain when bending, twisting, or reaching behind your back. Difficulty getting in and out of the bath.
Dressing and Undressing (Activity 6) – Cannot bend to put on socks, shoes, or trousers. Difficulty pulling clothes over your head. Pain with any twisting movement. If you need aids (sock aids, long-handled shoe horn) or help from another person, this scores.
Moving Around (Activity 12) – Pain limiting walking distance. Muscle fatigue from the uneven loading on your body. Balance problems from spinal misalignment. Breathing difficulties (if scoliosis compresses the lungs) limiting exertion.
Managing Therapy (Activity 3) – Pain medication, physiotherapy exercises, wearing a brace, post-surgical management, regular consultant appointments.
Post-Fusion Surgery
If you have had spinal fusion surgery, the permanently fused spine creates its own set of PIP-relevant difficulties. You cannot bend at the fused segments, which affects bending, twisting, reaching, and sitting for long periods. Recovery from fusion surgery takes months to years, and many people have permanent limitations even after full recovery.
What Evidence Helps?
- Orthopaedic or spinal consultant letters
- X-rays or MRI reports – showing the degree of curvature
- Physiotherapist reports
- Pain clinic letters – if you attend
- Surgical records – if you have had fusion
- Statement from someone who helps you
Get the Exact Phrases for Your PIP Form
PIPexpert generates personalised, ready-to-use language for all 12 PIP activities. Try one activity free – no payment needed.
Try Free Preview →Full report from £49.99 · Done For You from £99.99