Dr. David Montgomery in Royal Oak, MI

[angel77]

Does anyone have any experience with him? I was referred to him by my PCP.

Oh, btw, I would like to vent here also...
So I go in for a regular doctor visit so I can discuss certain ailments and such, including my scoliosis problem. Well, my dr. kept insisting that although my curve was on the "high-end" of moderate, surgery should "not" be an option and the right chiropractor could do wonders. Huh?? I still don't know the degree of curvature I have, but he did take an x-ray today to give me an idea prior to getting a complete scoliosis screening sometime next week. When I saw it I wanted to cry. All I kept thinking was "how could I NOT have surgery??" It looked so crooked. Well, I guess I shouldn't jump the gun yet. Maybe when I see the specialist he'll tell me it's not as bad as it looks. All I know is that I would just like to experience going to bed without freaking out over the impending pain. At least just once. And maybe also sitting in a chair and leaning back into it, and having BOTH sides of my back pressed against it....oh how wonderful that would feel!!

[deep breath] Ok. I'm done venting for today.

Angie

[lelc2002@yahoo]

Hi Angel,
I don't know about that Dr. but can relate to your feelings.. I was in tears when I saw my x-rays recently. Sounds like you have some pain just at night?? That's what I have. How old are you & do you have a idea what your curves are? Lynne http://lynnebackattack.blogspot.com

[SpineWhine]

Hi Angie -

Dr. Montgomery is my surgeon, and I really like him, and thus far am pleased with me results. He came to me highly recommended, and I had the "luxury" of getting several opinions from Michigan scoliosis surgeons. Several of the surgeons recommended surgery for me, one didn't and said he would put me on pain killers and PT. I chose Dr. Montgomery because of his reputation, his involvement with the Scoliosis Research Society, and his bedside manner.

I will say this, he and his immediate staff (nurses, residents, physician assistants) are great. But, I get frustrated sometimes with his administrative front desk staff, like the people who answer the phones and make appointments (other than surgical scheduling, she's great) or if you need a prescription refill. I also don't let that deter me from getting good medical care. I go back to him on 3/1 for my 90 day post op check up.

Let me know if you have any questions.

[angel77]

Hi Lynn,
I actually have a dull pain all day long, but it's the worst at night. I even went out and bought a very expensive mattress, but it didn't help.
I actually don't know what my curvature is yet. I only saw a basic x-ray at my PCP's office just so I can see the curve, but I will find out at the screening next week. I'll post it when I find out. Oh, and I'm 28 years old, but I was first diagnosed at age 12 and wore a Boston brace for 2 years. I really don't remember my curvature back then, but I think it was a thoracic curve in the 30's. I'm certain it's gotten worse since then.

Meg,
Thank you for your response. You've put my mind at ease. I remember seeing your "after pics" and thinking how great your results were, so I'm feeling fortunate to be seeing an incredible surgeon.

Angie

[trulyaries]

Dr. Montgomery

Dr. Montgomery is my surgeon. He also came highly recommended to me and I did some checking before I went to him. I have no doubt about his surgical abilities. I think his bedside manner could be better, although I must admit he seemed to have softened up a little by the time I went back for my second surgery. Perhaps he figured we were old friends by then with a shared history! I also just completed therapy with the PT group upstairs and I was pleased with it. It was also convenient that if we had any questions about my therapy the therapist just had to run downstairs and consult with Dr. Montgomery.

I agree with WhineSpine that the office staff could be improved. It's an incredibly busy office and some staff can be very impatient and rude at times. But again, I saw some improvement since my first surgery in 2000.
TrulyAries