Hello, I am a recent graduate of a complete fusion with screws and some flexible rods- per the X ray. I am 75 and my surgery was to stop the aggressive degenerative scoliosis I developed later in life- three curves, two at a 74% curve , one at 60%. I am fused from the top of my spine to the bottom of the pelvic bone. I now have developed a curve in my neck. I was scheduled for fusion for this last fall but canceled because I would no longer be able to drive with a fusion of seven of the vertebrae. A Scoliosis surgeon, Dr. Darrell Hanson and a neurologist, Dr. Holman did my surgery, one on each side. I consider the surgery a success, I was wearing a very rigid brace that was hot, and I could do nothing without having it on. It was difficult to sleep with those curves...I have lost two of the inches I had gained back, my spine is again curving forward and some to the side. I believe we need to keep exercising and enjoy life. I am about to have the third set of surgeries on each of my ten toes, one foot at a time. Apparently, an injury to the spine can cause bone issues for other areas- like the toes.
All the toes have curved- this time I am lucky because they now have screws to put in the toes.
We are blessed to live in this day and age where we are able to have access to so much medical care. I use aqua therapy, Pilates and weight training. I cannot walk for exercise, but perhaps I will be able to soon.