I had a fusion in 1975 just having turned 16. my curve was 64/32 with internal rotation and rib drop. Previously I had been in a Milwaukee Brace for 3 years. I was fused from T4-L2 with correction to 32/14. Harrington Rod, in bed for 2 months flat, infection and extreme bleeding during surgery. Placed in cast for 6 months, then plastic jacket for 6 months. Did well until I hit 33 and ruptured my 1st lumbar disc. Proceeded to rupture all 4 remaining bottoms. Fast forward in 2015 had my lower spine fused after developing Scoliosis. Now fused from T4 to tailbone Was doing as well as expected until about 4 months ago. I have now developed severe pain between my shoulder blades, pain in my chest and shoulders. Having a Cat Scan tomorrow. have also been diagnosed with an Autoimmune Disease. Important to stay as active as possible and get Mental Therapy. Dealing with these issues are very difficult and as we know, back then we didnt get any help with how hard this is on a kid. Both my sons also had fusions at 16 and are starting to have issues but continue to hold full time jobs.