I am 64 years old, with a 70+ thoracic curvature and an entrapped nerve at about T-8. I'm very fortunate that my curvature does not create a pelvic imbalance, although the nerve flares up with increasing frequency. My biggest concern is that my spine could worsen or even--horrors!--collapse if the bone deteriorates significantly in later life. By then, surgery would be out of the question due to bone fragility. I am seriously debating surgery and have been cautioned by my local (Phoenix, AZ) surgeon that I shouldn't wait too long.
Has anyone faced this awful dilemma? I'm currently in very little discomfort (although the nerve flare-ups are miserable and can last 2-3 months) so it's hard to imagine going through major surgery and multi-month recuperation based on a chance of future disability.
I'd love to get input, as well as recommendations for surgeons to visit for yet another opinion.
Has anyone faced this awful dilemma? I'm currently in very little discomfort (although the nerve flare-ups are miserable and can last 2-3 months) so it's hard to imagine going through major surgery and multi-month recuperation based on a chance of future disability.
I'd love to get input, as well as recommendations for surgeons to visit for yet another opinion.
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