@martinkda @johnbishop I had my kyphoplasty in 2004. I had a bad fall onto my back on a concrete stairway. I was away when it happened and when I got home and had an appointment with my PCP she suggested kyphoplasty. I didn't really know much so I allowed her to contact the radiologist who does them - he's an expert on it and trains other doctors - and I met with him and had it done. I felt immediate relief but about two weeks later I slipped and I twisted to try to catch myself and it was never quite the same after that. Interestingly it was assumed that I must have osteoporosis but I coincidentally had a DEXA set up right around the same time and my bones were great! It was just a very hard fall.

Due to the way it was set up I had no doctor to turn to. My PCP was not schooled in kyphoplasty and radiologists do not see patients so I was out on a limb. What I know now is that she should have referred me to a different doctor who could have managed things. I don't know if that would be an orthopedic doctor or a neurologist. I think that when I twisted I dislodged the cement. Now I have two lumps sticking out along my spine that look like noses! 😉 I would definitely do it again but I would make sure that I went through more helpful channels. I was just too dumb back then to know better. I realize that my PCP was trying to help but I would have liked to have been able to speak to a knowledgeable doctor about it afterward.
JK