How to Hide My Rib Hump

Many teens ask this question after they're diagnosed with scoliosis.

Not because they're ashamed of who they are.

Not because they're trying to be someone else.

But because sometimes they just want to feel comfortable.

They want to put on a shirt and not think about their back.

They want to go to school without worrying if someone notices.

They want a break from feeling self-conscious.

That's understandable.

If you're looking for ways to make your rib hump less noticeable in certain outfits, there are some practical things that can help.

Looser-fitting tops often draw less attention to asymmetry than very tight shirts. Patterns, graphics, layers, hoodies, flannels, sweatshirts, and textured fabrics can also make differences in body shape less noticeable than solid, clingy materials.

Some teens find that certain cuts of clothing feel more comfortable than others. You may discover that you like shirts that hang away from the body a little more or jackets that create a straighter silhouette.

The goal isn't to hide yourself.

The goal is to wear clothes that help you feel comfortable and confident.

But there is something important to talk about too.

Many teens start out wanting to hide their rib hump occasionally.

Then, without realizing it, hiding becomes the goal every day.

Every outfit.

Every picture.

Every activity.

Every social event.

Eventually, life starts revolving around making sure nobody sees it.

That's when hiding stops helping and starts hurting.

Because no matter how good the outfit is, it won't completely erase the fear.

The fear simply moves to the next situation.

The next mirror.

The next picture.

The next outfit.

The next person.

A lot of people with scoliosis eventually discover that the real challenge isn't figuring out how to hide their rib hump.

It's learning that they can still live their life even if someone notices it.

Because the truth is that your rib hump is not a flaw that needs to be concealed at all costs.

It's a physical result of scoliosis.

Nothing more.

Nothing less.

Some days you may choose clothes that make it less noticeable.

That's perfectly okay.

Other days you may wear whatever you want.

That's okay too.

What matters is that the decision comes from comfort, not fear.

You deserve to wear clothes because you like them.

Because they fit your personality.

Because they make you feel good.

Not because you're constantly trying to disappear.

Your rib hump is one small part of your body.

It is not the most important thing about you.

And while there is nothing wrong with wanting to feel comfortable in your clothes, don't forget this:

The people who care about you are paying far more attention to your smile, your personality, and the way you treat others than the shape of your back.

Most people aren't studying your rib hump.

They're thinking about themselves.

Just like you often are.

And that's one reason you don't have to spend your whole life trying to hide.