Hi guys, my name's Marissa (: I was diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis in late 2004 early 2005 and was braced from 6th grade to freshman year of high school. I get back pain occasionally, usually around the time of my period, and sometimes just out of nowhere. If I stand up, walk, or sit down for a long period of time, when I change positions I get this sharp pain in my lower back. Like when I walk to class (about a 10-15 minute walk) as soon as I sit down I get a sharp pain and I kinda freeze up for a second so I try to stretch a little in my seat then it goes away after like 10 seconds. Also sometimes my neck is really sore when I wake up. I have a memory foam mattress topper which seemed to help, and sleep with a teddy or body pillow between my legs for support, but sometimes my shoulders and neck are just really sore. I sleep a lot, usually 10-14 hours, and sometimes waking up is really unpleasant. Anyways, I've really been contemplating surgery lately. My surgeon said about 6 months ago that surgery is not mandatory but if I wanted it I could get it done. Besides the pain, another reason why I want to get it is because I'm really embarrassed of how it looks. My right hip is very prominent and my lower spine is very noticeable. I also have fatty skin folds on both sides of my waist, and I'm not even fat, I'm 5 feet tall and usually range between 88-96 pounds. My back makes me really self conscious. I cry almost every night because I hate the way I look and I just wish I was normal. I know it could be a lot worse but I've struggled with body image issues for some time now and this just contributes to it. My question for you guys is do you regret or encourage surgery? Was it a good or bad experience? I have a phone appointment in a week to discuss things with my surgeon but I'd like to hear your surgery stories first. I attached my x-rays too so you guys can see. Thank you & look forward to hearing from you!
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