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Many of you on the forum know the agony I went through for 13 months waiting for my surgery date with issues of fear and mostly doubt about the decision to have surgery. In my mind at the time, I was giving up a life that I loved of playing golf, tap dancing, working in the yard, riding my bike, exercising with friends at the Y, etc. for one that was going to involve a long recovery and full of uncertainties. To top it off, I really wasn't in a lot of pain, especially when i was active. (However, standing for a long period of time was tough, as well as certain activities, such as, raking leaves) I can honestly say that I haven't regretted having the surgery for a single day. Fortunately, my recovery has been smooth and I feel like I'm getting more of my muscle tone back. I am walking 5-6 miles a day and using the Y pool once or twice a week. Physical therapy will start in July when I'm 6 months post-op. Without encouragement from friends from this forum that I was making a good choice for my future, I may have not taken the plunge. Fortunately, Dr. Lenke told me that my prognosis was not good if I didn't have the surgery in the next few years, so I knew I had to make a choice that was in my best interest for my future. Not only do I feel great with just an occasional ache here and there that lasts a few minutes, I look so much better. I've had two ex-boyfriends tell me that I look 10-15 years younger since the surgery. (and I thought I was hiding the scoliosis with loose fitting tops!)
I've rambled on too long. My advice to those waiting for surgery is to get in the best physical shape possible and choose the best surgeon for scoliosis even if it means leaving your state. Also, have a positive attitude with reasonable expectations during recovery. I expected to feel lousy for the first month, so it wasn't a disappointment.
My check up yesterday went well. I've been given permission to chip and putt, so I'm off for a 7:00 am tee time with my friends.
Thanks for being my support group!
I've rambled on too long. My advice to those waiting for surgery is to get in the best physical shape possible and choose the best surgeon for scoliosis even if it means leaving your state. Also, have a positive attitude with reasonable expectations during recovery. I expected to feel lousy for the first month, so it wasn't a disappointment.
My check up yesterday went well. I've been given permission to chip and putt, so I'm off for a 7:00 am tee time with my friends.
Thanks for being my support group!
We are so fortunate to have a top surgeon in our backyard! They are always running behind but for good reason and it's worth the wait. I'm so glad you are doing so well! My back pain has improved some as my PT referred me to a medical massage specialist who does myofacial release therapy. I have only had one session so far but it made quite a difference on my lower left side. I'm hoping to get similar results on the right side and on rib pain too. Only down-side is cost and insurance doesn't cover but if it works it's worth it! I was so impressed to hear that you are able to walk 4-5 miles per day...WOW! I hope I will be able to do that soon. Right now I tank out between 1.5-2 as the pain gets too intense. I will keep trying though..lol. Take care and keep in touch!
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