Lastest Doctor's Visit

[briarrose]

Yesterday I went for my follow up appointment with Dr. Fras at the University of Pennsylvania. He measured my latest xray and found my curve to be 44 degrees. That's 3 degrees greater than last May. He said if the curve had been 48 or higher he would have recommended surgery since it would be progressing significantly but 3 degrees wasn't that big of a progression. He wants me to come back in a year. He thinks I will need surgery in the next couple of years but not at this point. I was disappointed that I have to live with pain for longer than I anticipated but oh well. At least he gave me a note to get out of jury duty!

[JamieAnn]

Hi Briarrose...

From what I have read on here, sometimes it's worth waiting a bit. I have a similar curve as yours (45), actually I have 2 but do not know which is 45. Anyway, I would guess waiting a few years would be a good idea and in the meantime see a PT or Chiropractor for the pain?

Good luck

[Curvy01]

Awww Sorry to hear the not so good news.

What have you been doing to help yourself? (ie. Excercises, osteo??)

[briarrose]

Thanks for the replies.

My doctor wants me to try physical therapy again. I did it back in 2003 but I think it caused more pain than anything else. I also went to a chiropractor in 2000-2001 but it didn't help either. I try to do pilates and walk, but even they are painful. I basically just try to tolerate the pain. My doctor told me to come back if I felt my curve was worsening or if my pain was getting worse. What would he do for the pain? Narcotics? I took Vicodin when I had my wisdom teeth out and that was the only time I had no back pain. I only took it twice for my teeth and never for my back. I don't want to get addicted. What do you do for pain?

[faldaste]

I've found neurontin to be helpful. If you don't experience side effects it is a good alternative to narcotics. Also, hot soaks in the tub can be good too.

[summer]

I used to use a heating pad, exercise and take yoga classes to relieve my back pain.

[lelc2002@yahoo]

Briarrose,
I guess that's ok news. I had 45 curves balancing as a teenager & looked great so who can tell. How old are you?? Unfortunately, it stinks to have the pain but do the P.T. & maybe it will help & swimming. I find it so strange that with a humdinger curve(s) like mine I don't really have much pain except some at night. Or maybe I'm totally use to it?? Lynne
ant/post..& ribs removal(ouch!) aug 1st
60/60 curves 85 kypho/95 thorocolumbar curve

[briarrose]

Thank you all for taking the time to reply. I really appreciate your input.

I'm 24 years old. When I was 16, and done growing, my curve was 18 degrees. Now, 8 years later, it's 44 degrees. I don't know if it will keep moving or not.

I'll have to try the heating pad and perhaps swimming. I've never heard of Neurotin, but I will look into it.

Lynne, maybe you are used to the back pain. I know I'm partially used to it.