Surgery advice in UK

[taff]

Hi everyone

I have the same old story as everyone else but I really need to touch base with those that have had surgery. I'd like to get an input from UK experiences as things are a little different over than here than the US- no offence.

I am 34 years old and had my curvature diagnosed when I was 15 originally and had it monitored for a few years until the specialist discharged me as it was not growing at a rate to cause alarm or causing me any pain. In the last year the pain at the base of my back has got steadily worse and the curvature is currently 55 degrees.

I don't have any of the T or L measurments yet but I have met with the specialist and he has mentioned surgery to me but he did also point out all the risks and negative aspects to it. I am now in a position where I am thinking about my future and how bad it might get, along with breathing difficulties etc and if I leave it too late to have surgery then will it be something that I regret. There is so much to think about as I have a family now and was wondering if there were any similar cases in the UK that could share their experiences with me both pre and post surgery.
Thanks
Taff

[Shari]

Hi Taff,

I'm from the US but still want to welcome you to this forum. I just want to let you know that we wish you the best of luck in your search for information.

And we are here if you need us.

Shari

[gerbo]

consider posting on www.scoliosis-support.org, most members are from the british isles, so you're more likely to get the advice you need

[Pips]

Hi Taff

I'm in South Wales and had surgery in Feb this year aged 42. I agree with Gerbo if you want a good UK based forum - you should get lots of help there.

I am really glad I had surgery and would have had it done sooner if only I'd known what my future held when I was your age as my curve increased 12 degrees in the last 2 years before surgery. However, it is not a cure for pain (although it may help) - I'm sure your surgeon told you this. The good thing is that at least you know what your future holds if you get it done - if you don't, you will always fear the possibility of breathing problems etc (even if they never emerge).

Find out your curve sizes and all the information you can before making up your mind and good luck with it all.