EastEnders actress Rita Simons, 49, marked Scoliosis Awareness Month by sharing an Instagram image of her curved spine — showing curves of 54 and 52 degrees — and detailing how a breast reduction surgery earlier this year has 'enormously helped' alleviate back pain. Diagnosed at 19, Simons described years of shame and the exhaustion of explaining her condition during wardrobe fittings. She also emphasized body acceptance, writing that her 'body just didn't hang right and it never will.'

The 54- and 52-Degree Curves That Rule Out Surgery

According to Simons' post, the severity of her scoliosis — measured at 54 and 52 degrees — makes her ineligible for spinal surgery. 'Because my scoliosis is severe and my back is in poor condition, she is not a candidate for spinal surgery,' as the actress shared. Instead, her focus is on slowing progression through exercise and physiotherapy. this hard surgical limit is a reality for many adults with advanced scoliosis, a condition typically diagnosed in adolescence but often undertreated in adulthood.

Why a Breast Reduction Became a Back-Pain Strategy

Simons underwent a breast reduction earlier this year, a decision she said was also driven by a desire to address the 'rib hump' at her back and the 'two mountains' at her front. In her caption, she noted that the surgery has 'enormously helped' reduce the load on her back. To prepare, Simons quit vaping, alcohol, and sugar — viewing the procedure as part of a broader effort to remove what does not serve her well.. Breast reduction as a scoliosis symptom management tool is a practical, less-invasive alternative when spinal surgery is not an option, though it remains underdiscussed in mainstream health coverage.

The Underdiscussed Reality of Adult Scoliosis

Simons stressed that adult scoliosis is underdiscussed, especially the 'unique curveballs' women may face — from chronic pain to clothing struggles. The actress, who described her spine as 'a big old S,' noted that pain typically affects adults with the condition, yet public awareness campaigns often focus on childhood screening. Her openness aims to foster community among those living with scoliosis, addressing a gap in conversations about body acceptance and medical management for older patients. As the report notes, scoliosis signs include a visible curve, uneven shoulders or hips, and back pain that usually only affects adults.

From Shame to Self-Acceptance: Simons' Message to 'Scolisisters'

In her candid post, Simons offered a message to fellow sufferers : 'To all my scolisisters out there… I see you.. I always have ❤️.' She also extended a broader reflection on body image, suggesting the goal may not be constant self-love but making peace with one's body — 'curved spine and all.' The shift from shame to acceptance is a powerful narrative, but one that leaves open questions: How much pain relief did the breast reduction specifically provide? What exercise routine does she follow to slow progression? The source does not detail these, leaving room for future updates from Simmons or her medical team.