Kathy W, 58 years old, had Herrington rods when I was 15, replacement rods when I was 29 and total reconstruction when I was 49. I developed flat back syndrome and was so bent over I couldn't walk more than 10 yards without resting. Hips are full of arthritis. I was on Darvocet at night and pain patches during the day. A specialist in Louisville replaced all the hardware and reshaped the spine 9 years ago. No I'm pain free and walk 4 miles a day. It was a struggle to find the right person to help me but I found him and glad I didn't have to travel to get there. I think there is hope for others.