Hello all,
I am new to this forum. I go threw "phases" where I try to get informed about scoliosis and current tx. I have had scoliosis since I was a teen (wore a brace, and the Scolitron then), I am now 39. I have my back monitored every 3-6 years. Unfortunately, my back gets worse each year. It was progressing 1-2 degrees every couple of years. However, my most recent visit to an ortho showed a 15 degree increase over the last 3-4 years. My curve is now 60 degrees. I have pain daily...but I live with it, and if I do any kind of physical work (yard work, extensive house cleaning) I know I will be sore. I get tingling in my little toe...it usually goes away after a week or two, then I forget about it.
Bottom line is the doctor said there is no avoiding surgery, but I am not really confident in the doctor I have seen over the last couple of years. I am afraid beyond belief of having surgery...which is why I have put it off for so long.
Does anyone know of excellent surgeons in the Columbus, Ohio area? Or who the best in the US is?
Can anyone tell me about their experience traveling to another state to have surgery? I am contemplating this, but again...pretty scary...I have a strong support system here in Ohio...but would travel if it meant a better surgical outcome.
A couple of more questions; What are the current techniques used for corrective surgery? How much of a correction is "typical" with surgery?
Thanks,
Anita
I am new to this forum. I go threw "phases" where I try to get informed about scoliosis and current tx. I have had scoliosis since I was a teen (wore a brace, and the Scolitron then), I am now 39. I have my back monitored every 3-6 years. Unfortunately, my back gets worse each year. It was progressing 1-2 degrees every couple of years. However, my most recent visit to an ortho showed a 15 degree increase over the last 3-4 years. My curve is now 60 degrees. I have pain daily...but I live with it, and if I do any kind of physical work (yard work, extensive house cleaning) I know I will be sore. I get tingling in my little toe...it usually goes away after a week or two, then I forget about it.
Bottom line is the doctor said there is no avoiding surgery, but I am not really confident in the doctor I have seen over the last couple of years. I am afraid beyond belief of having surgery...which is why I have put it off for so long.
Does anyone know of excellent surgeons in the Columbus, Ohio area? Or who the best in the US is?
Can anyone tell me about their experience traveling to another state to have surgery? I am contemplating this, but again...pretty scary...I have a strong support system here in Ohio...but would travel if it meant a better surgical outcome.
A couple of more questions; What are the current techniques used for corrective surgery? How much of a correction is "typical" with surgery?
Thanks,
Anita
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