Scoliosis Surgery

No, I'm not pain free. Some days are better than others. I'm in physical therapy and seeking to build up to more activity. I went in knowing it's a process (lengthy). I'm trying to get ready for a family wedding next year. I've been there with having to get surgery, because what I was living with was too much. It was the lesser of 2 evils. As far as the cane, I have several. Better to have them and not need them, than to need them and not have them. Give yourself grace.

Yes, I am adapting my lifestyle to work around pain vs working around limitations and surgery. Not sure when the scale will tip towards surgery, but I think within this year. Dealing with pain is affecting every decision I make. Sounds like for you too. Let me know when you schedule.
Tamra

I have adult scoliosis. I am 69 years old. It seemed to worsen after a hip a replacement. I've tried physical therapy, cortisone injections, radio frequency ablations and shoe lifts...all for not. The back pain persists. I'm going to try a SCS next, but I'm wondering if I'm headed for scoliosis surgery down the road? The attached image of my back was taken a couple weeks ago. How does this curvature compare to others who have had surgery?

Hi Norm,
It really is hard to say, as every case is different. My curve is similar to yours but much worse, plus I other confounding factors---prior fusion and hardware above that area. I will be having surgery in a few weeks.
Only a neurosurgeon or orthopedic specialists can let you know if you are a heading toward surgery. Your pain level and the potential for curve progression will be key factors.
I will attach my xray. It might make you feel a little better. 😊

One more thought. Should surgery be recommended it is better to do it while you are younger--yes 69 is young. I am 67. I have a dear 92 year old neighbor that suffers from severe back pain and terrible quality of life--he delayed surgery, as his daughter was not supportive, and now he is told that he is too old.

Good point on the age factor. Thanks for sharing. Please keep me posted regarding your upcoming surgery. Wishing for you the best. God Bless!

Thank you, Norm. I will.
Nadine

I am 67 with an “S” curve of 67 and 75 degrees. I am scheduled for fusion surgery at the end of August. Plan is to fuse from T4 to L5.

Happy to post everyone once in recovery.

I agree with the notion that it is better to do this while young and not in an emergency situation at a later date.

Good luck -- I am very pleased with my surgery. S2-T12. Post op 3 months at 67.

Hi Cindy?
I am post fusion from S2-T12 3months. I am already happy I had the surgery. I could not stand very long or walk very far towards the end. Sciatica. I walked 3 miles today. I anticipate I will return to an active life once the fusion has totally fused. I hope to bicycle ( new bike, not my road.). Not sure about golf, but I was a horrible golfer anyway. I can now make plans without weighing how much walking or standing is involved and look forward to sightseeing in Savannah in a month. I had scoliosis, stenosis and slipped disc and prior micro discectomy at L3/L4, so a major fusion was my decision as I do not want to spend the next decade in and out of surgery and healing. Good luck Tamra