Hi Kristen, I am a 57 year old female also living with an S shaped curve from adolescence (although not discovered until I was an adult). I have maintained an active lifestyle, although the pain is progressing. Five years ago I would have said "I can live with this". I still can, but not if the pain continues to progress at this rate. I am only taking Aleve for the pain and don't want to advance beyond that.

I've also been diagnosed with osteoporosis in my spine and I'm being told I should have the surgery sooner than later or I run the risk of no longer being a candidate. I am currently taking Tymlos (similar to Forteo) to strengthen my bones before a long fusion (T2 to S1). I originally was planning the surgery for September 2021, but my bone density after 4 months of Tymlos was still too low. They now want me on the Tymlos for one year prior and one year after the surgery (now planning for April 2022).

Given the progression, my greatest fear is that my bone density will not get to where it needs to be for the surgery. Close behind this fear, is what if it does and I have the surgery and what my life will be like after that. I haven't been able to find anyone with a long fusion close to my age that had an active lifestyle.

I feel conflicted because I fear both not being able to have the surgery as much as having the surgery and experiencing a significant change in my lifestyle.

I know that I'm not being responsive to your inquiry to find someone that has had the surgery. I wish you luck and would be interested in hearing more about your journey.