Guest guest Posted August 30, 2008 Report Share Posted August 30, 2008 Perhaps it depends on your rods, but I've had numerous MRIs of my brain and C-spine (neck) just fine with my rods. I have multiple sclerosis, and MRIs are the way they track the lesions in the brain & spinal cord. As they scan the lower end of the c-spine, there are often " artifacts " or areas of distortion that are caused by the metal rods (which start at T4 for me). But other than that, the MRIs are perfectly fine for me. Of course, there would be no use in doing an MRI in the specific areas where the rods are, as the artifacts would likely ruin any details they're looking for in the image. > > > > Hello everyone, > > > > Just found this group and I am trying to determine if I have flat > back. > > I had scoliosis surgery with the implamintation of a Harrington rod > > when I was 15 years old. I am now 47. I have chronic lower back > pain > > that seems to change from side to side. It seems as if the muscles > our > > sore very deep inside. Sleeping on my back, running the sweeper, > and > > sitting bent forward at my desk really bother me. I do tend to lean > > forward and when I get a glimpse of myself sometimes I cannot > believe > > how hunged > > (sp?) forward I am. > > > > I have had an MRI which showed herniated disks and some artheritis. > > When to pain management for steroid injections and radifrequency > > treatment which did nothing. > > > > Any thoughts out there? > > > > Thanks > > Jen > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 30, 2008 Report Share Posted August 30, 2008 I too was told to avoid MRI like the plague, until I started searching for a revision surgeon. I wrote Dr. Errico off my list immediately because the woman who answered the phone wouldn't give me an appointment unless I already had an MRI and treated me with disdain when I tried to explain that I couldn't have one because I had a Harrington Rod. The next one I tried was the one who took over my original surgeon's practice. I was more insistent there because my original surgeon promised to help me when the spinal stenosis finally required surgery. Still it took more than one call and I had to resort to insisting on speaking with the office manager. Then one of the revision surgeons I saw said he doesn't bother with an MRI because a CAT scan gives him better information! > > > > Hello everyone, > > > > Just found this group and I am trying to determine if I have flat > back. > > I had scoliosis surgery with the implamintation of a Harrington rod > > when I was 15 years old. I am now 47. I have chronic lower back > pain > > that seems to change from side to side. It seems as if the muscles > our > > sore very deep inside. Sleeping on my back, running the sweeper, > and > > sitting bent forward at my desk really bother me. I do tend to lean > > forward and when I get a glimpse of myself sometimes I cannot > believe > > how hunged > > (sp?) forward I am. > > > > I have had an MRI which showed herniated disks and some artheritis. > > When to pain management for steroid injections and radifrequency > > treatment which did nothing. > > > > Any thoughts out there? > > > > Thanks > > Jen > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 31, 2008 Report Share Posted August 31, 2008 I think Errico's receptionist should have been fired! Lida -----Original Message-----From: [mailto: ] On Behalf Of nerilka365Sent: 31 August 2008 02:45 Subject: Re: New to the group I too was told to avoid MRI like the plague, until I started searchingfor a revision surgeon. I wrote Dr. Errico off my list immediatelybecause the woman who answered the phone wouldn't give me anappointment unless I already had an MRI and treated me with disdainwhen I tried to explain that I couldn't have one because I had aHarrington Rod. __________ NOD32 3401 (20080829) Information __________This message was checked by NOD32 antivirus system.http://www.eset.com Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 31, 2008 Report Share Posted August 31, 2008 It's strange isn't it? I was told that as its a " magnetic resonance imaging " and the magnets they use are so strong that it would in most cases pull the metal out of you - gruesome hey? My husband has been referred for MRI in the past and they say " no metal of any kind " and that's earrings to pacemakers to hip replacements - everything. It says on the letter something along the lines of if you've got metal bits - you aren't coming in! we will refuse to do the scan and send you home. I was told that the ONLY way that they would give me a MRI would be to remove my rods, do the scan, and then replace them. I think he was joking.... I hope he was joking..... Doesn't matter now anyway cos they used bone scanning instead. Anyone had one of those? weird sensation. > > > > > > Hello everyone, > > > > > > Just found this group and I am trying to determine if I have flat > > back. > > > I had scoliosis surgery with the implamintation of a Harrington rod > > > when I was 15 years old. I am now 47. I have chronic lower back > > pain > > > that seems to change from side to side. It seems as if the muscles > > our > > > sore very deep inside. Sleeping on my back, running the sweeper, > > and > > > sitting bent forward at my desk really bother me. I do tend to lean > > > forward and when I get a glimpse of myself sometimes I cannot > > believe > > > how hunged > > > (sp?) forward I am. > > > > > > I have had an MRI which showed herniated disks and some artheritis. > > > When to pain management for steroid injections and radifrequency > > > treatment which did nothing. > > > > > > Any thoughts out there? > > > > > > Thanks > > > Jen > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted September 1, 2008 Report Share Posted September 1, 2008 I think so too! > > > I think Errico's receptionist should have been fired! > > Lida > > > > Re: New to the group > > > > I too was told to avoid MRI like the plague, until I started searching > for a revision surgeon. I wrote Dr. Errico off my list immediately > because the woman who answered the phone wouldn't give me an > appointment unless I already had an MRI and treated me with disdain > when I tried to explain that I couldn't have one because I had a > Harrington Rod. > > > > > __________ NOD32 3401 (20080829) Information __________ > > This message was checked by NOD32 antivirus system. > http://www.eset.com > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted September 1, 2008 Report Share Posted September 1, 2008 I also have a problem with bras. I am quite large in that department *blushes* and in the last year or so have found that it is excruciating to wear under-wires - only on one side where the metal sticks into my ribs (which obviously wasn't taken into account at the design how dare we have unsymmetrical shapes! tut! ) and soft cups are either too tight round the circumference that they cause backache OR too loose that they don't support and, you guessed it!, cause backache. yay! As far as clothes are concerned, being a mum I tend to wear casual clothes anyway so you cant tell as much but I am very very lucky that my mum is a great crafter and can make clothes to tailor to me - I've been a bridesmaid once and married twice and my mum specially made my dresses for me each time - with a slightly different neckline and one shoulder higher than the other that the pattern suggests. We also managed to find patterns that cover the (IMO) nearly 3 foot ugly scar down my back! I am really conscious of it and have a heck of a job getting swimming costumes with high backs! lol > > > > Hi this is my first time writing to this group. I'm 34yrs.old and have > > had my harrington rod since I was twelve. Up until four years ago i > > really didn't have problems with my back. I had three children, no > > epidurals of course, with no problems,other than the intense pain of > > childbirth. I feel like I have so many questions, but i don't want to > > take up too much space all at once. I guess I'll start with a seemingly > > goofy question that I've only noticed in the past couple of years. Has > > any women out there had problems with bras fitting correctly? It's > > becoming more of a problem for me as time goes on. i can't believe they > > haven't made bras for women with severe scoliosis. I'm also a little > > nervous about the talk of having another surgery. I can see where it > > may become necessary but I don't know what to do. i watched a show on > > The Learning Channel about extreme surguries. A young girl had rods put > > in for scoliosis, BUT they " straightened " her spine before putting the > > rods in. This was not done to me. Does anyone know if this is a new > > tecnique? I hope I'm o.k. in asking these questions to this forum. If > > you think that I may need a different forum please let me know. > > Thanks, Josie > > > > > > > > > --------------------------------- > Expecting? Get great news right away with email Auto-Check. > Try the Beta. > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted September 1, 2008 Report Share Posted September 1, 2008 I also have problems with bras. My issue is that all the straps fall off my left shoulder since my right shoulder is higher than my left. So needless to say, straps always fall off the left side. I also can't carry my purse on that shoulder either since it slides right off. I after years of searching I have discovered that 's Secret makes a racerback bra that is wonderful. There is no worrying about the strap falling off my shoulder or having the strap on my left shoulder so tight that it hurts.AmyFrom: highs_and_lows08 <highs_and_lows08@...>Subject: Re: New to the groupTo: Date: Monday, September 1, 2008, 6:51 AM I also have a problem with bras. I am quite large in that department *blushes* and in the last year or so have found that it is excruciating to wear under-wires - only on one side where the metal sticks into my ribs (which obviously wasn't taken into account at the design how dare we have unsymmetrical shapes! tut! ) and soft cups are either too tight round the circumference that they cause backache OR too loose that they don't support and, you guessed it!, cause backache. yay! As far as clothes are concerned, being a mum I tend to wear casual clothes anyway so you cant tell as much but I am very very lucky that my mum is a great crafter and can make clothes to tailor to me - I've been a bridesmaid once and married twice and my mum specially made my dresses for me each time - with a slightly different neckline and one shoulder higher than the other that the pattern suggests. We also managed to find patterns that cover the (IMO) nearly 3 foot ugly scar down my back! I am really conscious of it and have a heck of a job getting swimming costumes with high backs! lol > > > > Hi this is my first time writing to this group. I'm 34yrs.old and have > > had my harrington rod since I was twelve. Up until four years ago i > > really didn't have problems with my back. I had three children, no > > epidurals of course, with no problems,other than the intense pain of > > childbirth. I feel like I have so many questions, but i don't want to > > take up too much space all at once. I guess I'll start with a seemingly > > goofy question that I've only noticed in the past couple of years. Has > > any women out there had problems with bras fitting correctly? It's > > becoming more of a problem for me as time goes on. i can't believe they > > haven't made bras for women with severe scoliosis. I'm also a little > > nervous about the talk of having another surgery. I can see where it > > may become necessary but I don't know what to do. i watched a show on > > The Learning Channel about extreme surguries. A young girl had rods put > > in for scoliosis, BUT they "straightened" her spine before putting the > > rods in. This was not done to me. Does anyone know if this is a new > > tecnique? I hope I'm o.k. in asking these questions to this forum. If > > you think that I may need a different forum please let me know. > > Thanks, Josie > > > > > > > > > ------------ --------- --------- --- > Expecting? Get great news right away with email Auto-Check. > Try the Beta. > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted September 2, 2008 Report Share Posted September 2, 2008 YES! Sorry I dont mean I'm happy that this happens to you - of course I'm not but I am happy that finally I've "met" someone who "gets" WHY I dont use a handbag (except for special occasions) yet my pockets are always full of stuff! I dont know what its like in the US but here (uk) EVERY female over the age of 12 uses a handbag .... seemingly except me.... and everyone always looks at me daft if I try to explain "they fall off, and its annoying" Re: New to the groupFeistyScolioFlatbac kers@groups .comDate: Monday, September 1, 2008, 6:51 AM I also have a problem with bras. I am quite large in that department *blushes* and in the last year or so have found that it is excruciating to wear under-wires - only on one side where the metal sticks into my ribs (which obviously wasn't taken into account at the design how dare we have unsymmetrical shapes! tut! ) and soft cups are either too tight round the circumference that they cause backache OR too loose that they don't support and, you guessed it!, cause backache. yay!As far as clothes are concerned, being a mum I tend to wear casual clothes anyway so you cant tell as much but I am very very lucky that my mum is a great crafter and can make clothes to tailor to me - I've been a bridesmaid once and married twice and my mum specially made my dresses for me each time - with a slightly different neckline and one shoulder higher than the other that the pattern suggests. We also managed to find patterns that cover the (IMO) nearly 3 foot ugly scar down my back! I am really conscious of it and have a heck of a job getting swimming costumes with high backs! lol> >> > Hi this is my first time writing to this group. I'm 34yrs.old and have > > had my harrington rod since I was twelve. Up until four years ago i > > really didn't have problems with my back. I had three children, no > > epidurals of course, with no problems,other than the intense pain of > > childbirth. I feel like I have so many questions, but i don't want to > > take up too much space all at once. I guess I'll start with a seemingly > > goofy question that I've only noticed in the past couple of years. Has > > any women out there had problems with bras fitting correctly? It's > > becoming more of a problem for me as time goes on. i can't believe they > > haven't made bras for women with severe scoliosis. I'm also a little > > nervous about the talk of having another surgery. I can see where it > > may become necessary but I don't know what to do. i watched a show on > > The Learning Channel about extreme surguries. A young girl had rods put > > in for scoliosis, BUT they "straightened" her spine before putting the > > rods in. This was not done to me. Does anyone know if this is a new > > tecnique? I hope I'm o.k. in asking these questions to this forum. If > > you think that I may need a different forum please let me know.> > Thanks, Josie> >> > > > > > > ------------ --------- --------- ---> Expecting? Get great news right away with email Auto-Check.> Try the Beta.> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted September 4, 2008 Report Share Posted September 4, 2008 I think it's important that we keep publicizing the bad experiences we have with medical personnel and their office staff. Dr. Errico seems to get high marks from Feisty members, but it is disheartening and alienating to hear that his receptionist acted this rude and disdainful to a potential patient on the phone. When I was searching for a revision surgeon several years ago, I likewise wrote off at least one or two of them because of their unbelievably inhospitable receptionists. An informed, capable, and gracioius receptionist is a gem, and we can only hope that she or he is respected and well paid by the boss. As for the occasional nightmare-receptionist -- well, I just can't see that there is any excuse for taking out her/his hostilities or dissatisfactions on callers who are already dealing with a load of pain and anxiety from serious spinal conditions. If that's your M.O. as a medical receptionist, maybe you should consider another line of work (at the Division of Motor Vehicles, perhaps?) The MRI issue seems to come up again and again at this group. In the early years, I did hear of one bad reaction someone had to an MRI because of her Harrington rod, but to the best of my knowledge, this is not a problem with the newer scanners. If you want to read lots more posts on this subject, you could try searching the message archives at our website! Thanks to eight fusions and revisions, I have a veritable medical supply store implanted in my back. I was wary of having an MRI but found that it gave me no problems. Best, > > > I think Errico's receptionist should have been fired! > > Lida > > > > Re: New to the group > > > > I too was told to avoid MRI like the plague, until I started searching > for a revision surgeon. I wrote Dr. Errico off my list immediately > because the woman who answered the phone wouldn't give me an > appointment unless I already had an MRI and treated me with disdain > when I tried to explain that I couldn't have one because I had a > Harrington Rod. > > > > > __________ NOD32 3401 (20080829) Information __________ > > This message was checked by NOD32 antivirus system. > http://www.eset.com > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 12, 2008 Report Share Posted October 12, 2008 Hi Kathie! Welcome to the group! I have often heard that there are a lot of crazies on the SmartBandster board who make rude comments like the one you mentioned. Happy to see you here! While veggies are very good for you, if you have issues with textures and flavors, just find what DOES work for you and stick to them along with taking an excellent vitamin supplement. I also have PCOS; diagnosed at 18 and I am now 37 (for 2 more months!). Losing weight will most definitely help with the disease and its associated diseases. My blood pressure, lipids and insulin are all now normal off meds with the exception of just one mild bp med which I may never get off of simply because of heredity. If you have never seen an endocrinologist for your PCOS DEFINITELY make an appointment with one! @...: kathieiorizzo@...: Sun, 12 Oct 2008 21:31:06 +0000Subject: New to the Group Hello all. I am Kathie and was in Smart Bandsters. I have decided to look for another support group on this process. I don't feel SB was the right group for me and I got tired of being blasted. The last straw was when a member advised me I'd get cancer if I didn't learn to like veggies. My story is short. I was banded April 23, 2008 with my parter Deb. We are in this together and having that person here doing this with me, makes this so much easier. It is not as easy as I thought. I am a very picky eater who has a texture issue with food and also dislikes most veggies and condiments. I am learning to open my taste buds and try new things, but most of the time it's a negative process and I end up not liking them. I am determined to work this band the way it's supposed to be worked and be a success with this. I also have PCOS which has gone untreated now for two years. I got very frustrated with the back and forth birth control forms of treatment so I'm waiting to see a specialist about it. I know I have to get my PCOS in order for this weight loss to work. I eat pretty decent most days, but I find I crave sweets. I also don't make time to cook during the week as I should. So that is me. I am 31, no kids and I live in Chicago. _________________________________________________________________ See how Windows connects the people, information, and fun that are part of your life. http://clk.atdmt.com/MRT/go/msnnkwxp1020093175mrt/direct/01/ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 12, 2008 Report Share Posted October 12, 2008 Thank you heather for the warm welcome! I have seen several Endo's for my PCOS and have done so many trials of medication. I just get sick from them or the last one broke out in hives. Has your cycle returned to normal since losing weight? Do you have children? I hope you don't mind my personal questions. Kathie kathieiorizzo@... http://web.mac.com/kathie7 317/286.4/180 Preop/Now/Goal http://web.mac.com/kathie7/LoveMeSkinny/Welcome.html New to the Group Hello all. I am Kathie and was in Smart Bandsters. I have decided to look for another support group on this process. I don't feel SB was the right group for me and I got tired of being blasted. The last straw was when a member advised me I'd get cancer if I didn't learn to like veggies. My story is short. I was banded April 23, 2008 with my parter Deb. We are in this together and having that person here doing this with me, makes this so much easier. It is not as easy as I thought. I am a very picky eater who has a texture issue with food and also dislikes most veggies and condiments. I am learning to open my taste buds and try new things, but most of the time it's a negative process and I end up not liking them. I am determined to work this band the way it's supposed to be worked and be a success with this. I also have PCOS which has gone untreated now for two years. I got very frustrated with the back and forth birth control forms of treatment so I'm waiting to see a specialist about it. I know I have to get my PCOS in order for this weight loss to work. I eat pretty decent most days, but I find I crave sweets. I also don't make time to cook during the week as I should. So that is me. I am 31, no kids and I live in Chicago. ____________ _________ _________ _________ _________ _________ _ See how Windows connects the people, information, and fun that are part of your life. http://clk.atdmt. com/MRT/go/ msnnkwxp10200931 75mrt/direct/ 01/ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 12, 2008 Report Share Posted October 12, 2008 Kathie, I don't mind personal questions at all! Well, pre-banding and even further back pre-seeing an endo my cycles came about every nine MONTHS. I saw an endo and started Metformin/Glucophage and my IR was so rediculous that I was on 2,000 mg a day. I lost about 20 pounds from the meds alone, but my cycles started coming about every 45 days or so. We tried to get pregnant for many years and just the Met didn't help in that department so we did Clomid for a while and then moved onto injectibles and after NINE years of trying we got pregnant with our daughter Kylie who will be 4 on 11/30. I had to go on a LOT of insulin with that pregnancy and couldn't come off of it after her birth, but my cycles were at that point down to about every 30-35 days. I doubted that I was ovulating considering ttc for those nine years. After having her I looked into LapBand and was scheduled for surgery in April of 2006. A week before my surgery I realized I was about 2 weeks late and took a home prego test thinking there was NO way it was positive, but it WAS. My banding was cancelled. Unfortunately I miscarried at 12 weeks (progesterone was very low). After I recovered I immediately rescheduled my banding and got an IUD! My banding was on 9/14/06 and I immediately was taken off all insulin and oral meds other than BP meds (which I was taking two different types and double doses of one). After losing for a few months my cycles were down to every 28-29 days! My gyn said that the IUD had nothing to do with it. So, about a year after my banding I realized I was LATE and again took a home test and again was pregnant. The IUD had to be removed although it was STILL perfectly placed. Again, I miscarried (probably from the IUD removal), but this time at 8 weeks. After recovering from this miscarriage we knew we definitely wanted Kylie to have a sister so we were told we could try again and it was about 18 months after my banding and I had lost 80 pounds. So we tried for a couple months and the third month we found out we were pregnant again. This time progesterone was dipping, but it was monitered and I needed progesterone suppositories. All has gone very well with this pregnancy and I'm having another girl in just 8 more weeks! We have named her Lacie. I've gained 12 pounds so far and haven't had any band issues. Right now I have 7cc in my VG band so it's just enough restriction, but after I deliver I'll start with fills again so I can get back on the road to my goal weight! _________________________________________________________________ See how Windows Mobile brings your life together—at home, work, or on the go. http://clk.atdmt.com/MRT/go/msnnkwxp1020093182mrt/direct/01/ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 12, 2008 Report Share Posted October 12, 2008 Kathie, I should clarify....we tried to conceive for nine years - including without and with medical intervention, we didn't try injectible meds for nine years!!! lol ....and p.s. Kathie, dropping progesterone levels during early pregnancy is common in women with PCOS so if and when you try to start a family, be sure your doc monitors your progesterone levels. The placenta takes over around week 11 or week 12 so it's just a couple months of suppositories to deal with. _________________________________________________________________ See how Windows Mobile brings your life together—at home, work, or on the go. http://clk.atdmt.com/MRT/go/msnnkwxp1020093182mrt/direct/01/ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 13, 2008 Report Share Posted October 13, 2008 Welcome! We never blast people here, but we might ask you to look at some tough issues sometimes, or give you a gentle " kick' occasionally, with sincere caring. :-) We often have cravings if our protein amounts are not enough. Try to get 50 gm or so, on average, of solid protein a day. Please also go thruthe Band Guide in the files, fo the basics on food choices, eating techniques, nd safety issues - and more. what veggies do you like? Use lowfat cheese sauces, butter sauces, and " hide " veggies in stews, meatloaf, casseroles, pot roast. I'd also urge you to consider the excelent Vita Band viramins from Bariatric Advantage, if you're not too fond of veggies. they will help you make up the difference. It's tough to find time to cook sometimes, but there are good frozen dinners, like the South beach ones with only meat and veggies. You could also make meatloaves and casseroles on the weekends to freeze. I make up about a dozen quality ground beef patties at a time, freeze them individually, and then can quickly grill them. a crockpot is also an excellent tool for busy people - just throw stuff in before you leave for work, and it's hot and ready for you when you get home! Glad you're here with us ! Sandy r > > Hello all. I am Kathie and was in Smart Bandsters. I have decided to look for another support > group on this process. I don't feel SB was the right group for me and I got tired of being > blasted. The last straw was when a member advised me I'd get cancer if I didn't learn to like > veggies. > > My story is short. I was banded April 23, 2008 with my parter Deb. We are in this together > and having that person here doing this with me, makes this so much easier. It is not as easy > as I thought. I am a very picky eater who has a texture issue with food and also dislikes most > veggies and condiments. I am learning to open my taste buds and try new things, but most > of the time it's a negative process and I end up not liking them. I am determined to work this > band the way it's supposed to be worked and be a success with this. I also have PCOS which > has gone untreated now for two years. I got very frustrated with the back and forth birth > control forms of treatment so I'm waiting to see a specialist about it. I know I have to get my > PCOS in order for this weight loss to work. I eat pretty decent most days, but I find I crave > sweets. I also don't make time to cook during the week as I should. > > So that is me. I am 31, no kids and I live in Chicago. > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 13, 2008 Report Share Posted October 13, 2008 Hey Sandy! Speaking of meatloaf, I have a great " Pizza Meatloaf " recipe if anyone is interested. I sometimes can't handle ground beef, but this meatloaf is the perfect texture for me. It has Don Pepino sauce in it and over it and I use a low fat mozzarella. JUST YUMMY! @...: moonshadow.sandy@...: Tue, 14 Oct 2008 02:28:12 +0000Subject: Re: New to the Group Welcome! We never blast people here, but we might ask you to look at some tough issues sometimes, or give you a gentle " kick' occasionally, with sincere caring. :-)We often have cravings if our protein amounts are not enough. Try to get 50 gm or so, on average, of solid protein a day.Please also go thruthe Band Guide in the files, fo the basics on food choices, eating techniques, nd safety issues - and more. what veggies do you like? Use lowfat cheese sauces, butter sauces, and " hide " veggies in stews, meatloaf, casseroles, pot roast. I'd also urge you to consider the excelent Vita Band viramins from Bariatric Advantage, if you're not too fond of veggies. they will help you make up the difference. It's tough to find time to cook sometimes, but there are good frozen dinners, like the South beach ones with only meat and veggies. You could also make meatloaves and casseroles on the weekends to freeze. I make up about a dozen quality ground beef patties at a time, freeze them individually, and then can quickly grill them. a crockpot is also an excellent tool for busy people - just throw stuff in before you leave for work, and it's hot and ready for you when you get home!Glad you're here with us !Sandy r>> Hello all. I am Kathie and was in Smart Bandsters. I have decided to look for another support > group on this process. I don't feel SB was the right group for me and I got tired of being > blasted. The last straw was when a member advised me I'd get cancer if I didn't learn to like > veggies. > > My story is short. I was banded April 23, 2008 with my parter Deb. We are in this together > and having that person here doing this with me, makes this so much easier. It is not as easy > as I thought. I am a very picky eater who has a texture issue with food and also dislikes most > veggies and condiments. I am learning to open my taste buds and try new things, but most > of the time it's a negative process and I end up not liking them. I am determined to work this > band the way it's supposed to be worked and be a success with this. I also have PCOS which > has gone untreated now for two years. I got very frustrated with the back and forth birth > control forms of treatment so I'm waiting to see a specialist about it. I know I have to get my > PCOS in order for this weight loss to work. I eat pretty decent most days, but I find I crave > sweets. I also don't make time to cook during the week as I should. > > So that is me. I am 31, no kids and I live in Chicago.> _________________________________________________________________ Get more out of the Web. Learn 10 hidden secrets of Windows Live. http://windowslive.com/connect/post/jamiethomson.spaces.live.com-Blog-cns!550F68\ 1DAD532637!5295.entry?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_domore_092008 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 13, 2008 Report Share Posted October 13, 2008 Yes, please add it to the recipe file here!! then i will swipe it and also add it to my new board for Kuri patiets (credit to you, of course!) thanks ! Sandy >> Hello all. I am Kathie and was in Smart Bandsters. I have decided to look for another support > group on this process. I don't feel SB was the right group for me and I got tired of being > blasted. The last straw was when a member advised me I'd get cancer if I didn't learn to like > veggies. > > My story is short. I was banded April 23, 2008 with my parter Deb. We are in this together > and having that person here doing this with me, makes this so much easier. It is not as easy > as I thought. I am a very picky eater who has a texture issue with food and also dislikes most > veggies and condiments. I am learning to open my taste buds and try new things, but most > of the time it's a negative process and I end up not liking them. I am determined to work this > band the way it's supposed to be worked and be a success with this. I also have PCOS which > has gone untreated now for two years. I got very frustrated with the back and forth birth > control forms of treatment so I'm waiting to see a specialist about it. I know I have to get my > PCOS in order for this weight loss to work. I eat pretty decent most days, but I find I crave > sweets. I also don't make time to cook during the week as I should. > > So that is me. I am 31, no kids and I live in Chicago.> > > > > > > _________________________________________________________________ > Get more out of the Web. Learn 10 hidden secrets of Windows Live. > http://windowslive.com/connect/post/jamiethomson.spaces.live.com- Blog-cns!550F681DAD532637!5295.entry?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_domore_092008 > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 14, 2008 Report Share Posted October 14, 2008 I'd love the meatloaf recipe too. From: moonshadow.sandy Sent: Monday, October 13, 2008 9:38 PM Subject: Re: New to the Group Yes, please add it to the recipe file here!! then i will swipe it and also add it to my new board for Kuri patiets (credit to you, of course!) thanks ! Sandy >> Hello all. I am Kathie and was in Smart Bandsters. I have decided to look for another support > group on this process. I don't feel SB was the right group for me and I got tired of being > blasted. The last straw was when a member advised me I'd get cancer if I didn't learn to like > veggies. > > My story is short. I was banded April 23, 2008 with my parter Deb. We are in this together > and having that person here doing this with me, makes this so much easier. It is not as easy > as I thought. I am a very picky eater who has a texture issue with food and also dislikes most > veggies and condiments. I am learning to open my taste buds and try new things, but most > of the time it's a negative process and I end up not liking them. I am determined to work this > band the way it's supposed to be worked and be a success with this. I also have PCOS which > has gone untreated now for two years. I got very frustrated with the back and forth birth > control forms of treatment so I'm waiting to see a specialist about it. I know I have to get my > PCOS in order for this weight loss to work. I eat pretty decent most days, but I find I crave > sweets. I also don't make time to cook during the week as I should. > > So that is me. I am 31, no kids and I live in Chicago.> > > > > > > __________________________________________________________ > Get more out of the Web. Learn 10 hidden secrets of Windows Live. > http://windowslive.com/connect/post/jamiethomson.spaces.live.com- Blog-cns!550F681DAD532637!5295.entry?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_domore_092008 > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 14, 2008 Report Share Posted October 14, 2008 Thank you for the warm welcome. I bought some low fat cheese and I'm going to try that on some different veggies. I'm also going to try salad again. The last time I did salad it got stuck bad, but it's been a few months. I will look into the vitamins. I also started eating protein for breakfast, so I'm hoping this helps me as well. I'm going to look at the file you mentioned. Kathie kathieiorizzo@... http://web.mac.com/kathie7 317/286.4/180 Preop/Now/Goal http://web.mac.com/kathie7/LoveMeSkinny/Welcome.html Re: New to the Group Welcome! We never blast people here, but we might ask you to look at some tough issues sometimes, or give you a gentle " kick' occasionally, with sincere caring. :-) We often have cravings if our protein amounts are not enough. Try to get 50 gm or so, on average, of solid protein a day. Please also go thruthe Band Guide in the files, fo the basics on food choices, eating techniques, nd safety issues - and more. what veggies do you like? Use lowfat cheese sauces, butter sauces, and " hide " veggies in stews, meatloaf, casseroles, pot roast. I'd also urge you to consider the excelent Vita Band viramins from Bariatric Advantage, if you're not too fond of veggies. they will help you make up the difference. It's tough to find time to cook sometimes, but there are good frozen dinners, like the South beach ones with only meat and veggies. You could also make meatloaves and casseroles on the weekends to freeze. I make up about a dozen quality ground beef patties at a time, freeze them individually, and then can quickly grill them. a crockpot is also an excellent tool for busy people - just throw stuff in before you leave for work, and it's hot and ready for you when you get home! Glad you're here with us ! Sandy r > > Hello all. I am Kathie and was in Smart Bandsters. I have decided to look for another support > group on this process. I don't feel SB was the right group for me and I got tired of being > blasted. The last straw was when a member advised me I'd get cancer if I didn't learn to like > veggies. > > My story is short. I was banded April 23, 2008 with my parter Deb. We are in this together > and having that person here doing this with me, makes this so much easier. It is not as easy > as I thought. I am a very picky eater who has a texture issue with food and also dislikes most > veggies and condiments. I am learning to open my taste buds and try new things, but most > of the time it's a negative process and I end up not liking them. I am determined to work this > band the way it's supposed to be worked and be a success with this. I also have PCOS which > has gone untreated now for two years. I got very frustrated with the back and forth birth > control forms of treatment so I'm waiting to see a specialist about it. I know I have to get my > PCOS in order for this weight loss to work. I eat pretty decent most days, but I find I crave > sweets. I also don't make time to cook during the week as I should. > > So that is me. I am 31, no kids and I live in Chicago. > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 10, 2008 Report Share Posted November 10, 2008 Welcome to this wonderful group. My name is Sue, and I'm one of the moderators.  I'm glad you found us. You are so right. No one understands what we are going through unless they are also going through it. That's the beauty of this group. Everyone here knows what everyone else is feeling.  If you have any questions or need any information, please contact me  Sue C Moderator From: robbd1980 <robbd@...> Subject: New to the Group Stimulator Date: Monday, November 10, 2008, 9:43 PM Since, I'm new to the group, I thought I would tell you all a little of my story. I was diagnosed with RSD 12 years ago, so I will make it as short and sweet as possible. I began having unexplained pain, swelling, and changes in skin color and temperature in my right leg, during the spring of 1996. I had injured the knee two years earlier due to a fall, but the knee had healed and everything had been fine for two years. After seeing many doctors who had no idea what was wrong with me, I was diagnosed with Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD) in October 1996, when I was 16 years old. After being diagnosed with RSD, I was passed from doctor to doctor. Some didn't believe the pain, others said they couldn't help, and some just wanted to give me pain meds and send me on my way. Finally I ended up at a pain treatment center and found a doctor who believed me and wanted to help. By that time I was 23 years old. He tried different combinations of meds, but nothing helped. He mentioned trying a spinal cord stimulator. Other doctors had told me about spinal cord stimulators, but said I was too young to have one. This doctor didn't seem to think I was too young. In 2004, I had a trial stimulator. It was great. I couldn't believe the change in my pain level. In October 2004, a permanent stimulator was implanted and life was great. In August 2005, my stimulator quit working, so I had to have another surgery. It turned out that the lead wires had gone bad and somehow the lead wire had come loose from the battery. My doctor put in new lead wires and my stimulator was again working. Life was great again. In January 2008, my stimulator battery was depleted, so obviously the stimulator quit working. I saw my doctor the next day. He contacted my insurance and scheduled surgery. Four days after my first stimulator quit, I had surgery to implant my second stimulator. The stimulator I currently have is rechargeable. Unlike the first, my doctor placed two lead wires this time, so we have one to fall back on if one quits working. It's been almost a year since my second stimulator was put in. It's working great and I don't know what I would do without it. I came across this group a couple days ago, while looking to see if there was a RSD support group in my area. I often wish I had someone to talk to who understands. I feel I have found those people. Many of the stories I have read on this website sound so similar to what I have been through. I look forward to sharing pain and stimulator experiences with you all. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 10, 2008 Report Share Posted November 10, 2008 That must have been really hard on you to be hit with this when you were so young. I am glad your SCS has provided you with good relief from your RSD New to the Group Since, I'm new to the group, I thought I would tell you all a little of my story. I was diagnosed with RSD 12 years ago, so I will make it as short and sweet as possible. I began having unexplained pain, swelling, and changes in skin color and temperature in my right leg, during the spring of 1996. I had injured the knee two years earlier due to a fall, but the knee had healed and everything had been fine for two years. After seeing many doctors who had no idea what was wrong with me, I was diagnosed with Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD) in October 1996, when I was 16 years old. After being diagnosed with RSD, I was passed from doctor to doctor. Some didn't believe the pain, others said they couldn't help, and some just wanted to give me pain meds and send me on my way. Finally I ended up at a pain treatment center and found a doctor who believed me and wanted to help. By that time I was 23 years old. He tried different combinations of meds, but nothing helped. He mentioned trying a spinal cord stimulator. Other doctors had told me about spinal cord stimulators, but said I was too young to have one. This doctor didn't seem to think I was too young. In 2004, I had a trial stimulator. It was great. I couldn't believe the change in my pain level. In October 2004, a permanent stimulator was implanted and life was great. In August 2005, my stimulator quit working, so I had to have another surgery. It turned out that the lead wires had gone bad and somehow the lead wire had come loose from the battery. My doctor put in new lead wires and my stimulator was again working. Life was great again. In January 2008, my stimulator battery was depleted, so obviously the stimulator quit working. I saw my doctor the next day. He contacted my insurance and scheduled surgery. Four days after my first stimulator quit, I had surgery to implant my second stimulator. The stimulator I currently have is rechargeable. Unlike the first, my doctor placed two lead wires this time, so we have one to fall back on if one quits working. It's been almost a year since my second stimulator was put in. It's working great and I don't know what I would do without it. I came across this group a couple days ago, while looking to see if there was a RSD support group in my area. I often wish I had someone to talk to who understands. I feel I have found those people. Many of the stories I have read on this website sound so similar to what I have been through. I look forward to sharing pain and stimulator experiences with you all. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 10, 2008 Report Share Posted November 10, 2008 Being hit with RSD at 16 was very difficult. A month before my 16th birthday I told a doctor that I had to get better, I would be soon be old enough to drive. Little did I know then what kind of battle lay before me. While I was being faced with all the changes in my life because of RSD, my friends were not very understanding and they pretty much deserted me. That was tough. I also went to school with a cruel group of students who would walk down the hall at school mocking my limp. They would also pretend they were going to hit my leg and untie my shoes. My leg was so sensitive to touch at that point that I couldn't stand for anything to touch it. When they just pretended to touch my leg or untied my shoes their closeness made me tense which made the pain worse. My best friend in high school turned out to be my high school principal. When I was having a bad day, he would be there with a word of encouragement. He also helped out with my cruel classmates. I couldn't sit in a desk because they were hard and pushed against my leg, so my principal loaned me his brand new desk chair. Talk about taking care of your students. A year after I graduated from high school he, his wife, and their daughter were killed in a car accident. It's strange to think that he became principal the year I was diagnosed with RSD, helped me make it through high school, and then died a year later. Although the stimulator has made a big change in my life. I've come to realize that life is never going to be like it was before. Now instead of hiking and playing volleyball, I paint and knit. People talk about how I must have such patience because I've taught myself to paint and knit. I tell them it is amazing what you can learn during the eight week recovery period after stimulator surgery. I still have pain, swelling, skin changes, etc. but nothing compared to what it was before the stimulator. It's hard to comprehend how an implanted battery and wires helps keep my skin from changing colors. At first I thought it was just a coincidence, but everytime my stimulator has quit, the dark purple color has come back in my leg. Although I wouldn't wish RSD on anyone, I can see the good that has come from my suffering. I've been volunteering once a week at a local elementary school and it is amazing how special needs students and students with bad behaviors connect and respond to me. I can see where my own experiences have taught me to be more understanding. I love the innocence of elementary school students. They ask some of the funniest questions. I can't walk without crutches. Last week I was volunteering and I used the student restroom instead of the faculty one. This little girl who didn't look to be more than 4 or 5 stopped me as I was leaving and asked, " How do you use the bathroom? " The seriousness on the child's face was all that kept me from laughing. She honestly thought I had to use the bathroom differently because I walked with crutches. Trying not to laugh, I looked at her and responded, " I sit on the commode the same as you do. " I do have to be aware of what I wear when I am at an elementary school because my leg still turns colors occaisionally and small children tend to think something bad has happened when my leg turns dark purple. I was wearing capris one day and a very scared looking student ask what was wrong with my leg. I looked down and it was almost black. While student teaching in fifth grade, my students had lots of questions. I was teaching a health unit on communicable and noncommicable (hope I spelled that right) diseases. My students were really interested in knowing what was wrong with me so I had a question/answer health lesson where the students could ask anything they wanted about my RSD and spinal cord stimulator. I have a bachelor degree in elementary education, which seems useless right now because I'm not physically able to work yet, and I am currently working on a masters degree in educational technology. My masters degree classes are all on the internet, which is really good for me because it allows me to work at my own pace. So far, my professors have been very understanding and have worked with me really well. I'm hoping with my masters degree to be able to get a part time job working with technology in our local school district. > > That must have been really hard on you to be hit with this when you were so young. I am glad your SCS has provided you with good relief from your RSD > New to the Group > > > Since, I'm new to the group, I thought I would tell you all a little > of my story. I was diagnosed with RSD 12 years ago, so I will make > it as short and sweet as possible. > > I began having unexplained pain, swelling, and changes in skin color > and temperature in my right leg, during the spring of 1996. I had > injured the knee two years earlier due to a fall, but the knee had > healed and everything had been fine for two years. After seeing many > doctors who had no idea what was wrong with me, I was diagnosed with > Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD) in October 1996, when I was 16 > years old. > > After being diagnosed with RSD, I was passed from doctor to doctor. > Some didn't believe the pain, others said they couldn't help, and > some just wanted to give me pain meds and send me on my way. > > Finally I ended up at a pain treatment center and found a doctor who > believed me and wanted to help. By that time I was 23 years old. He > tried different combinations of meds, but nothing helped. He > mentioned trying a spinal cord stimulator. Other doctors had told me > about spinal cord stimulators, but said I was too young to have one. > This doctor didn't seem to think I was too young. > > In 2004, I had a trial stimulator. It was great. I couldn't believe > the change in my pain level. In October 2004, a permanent stimulator > was implanted and life was great. > > In August 2005, my stimulator quit working, so I had to have another > surgery. It turned out that the lead wires had gone bad and somehow > the lead wire had come loose from the battery. My doctor put in new > lead wires and my stimulator was again working. Life was great again. > > In January 2008, my stimulator battery was depleted, so obviously the > stimulator quit working. I saw my doctor the next day. He contacted > my insurance and scheduled surgery. Four days after my first > stimulator quit, I had surgery to implant my second stimulator. The > stimulator I currently have is rechargeable. Unlike the first, my > doctor placed two lead wires this time, so we have one to fall back > on if one quits working. It's been almost a year since my second > stimulator was put in. It's working great and I don't know what I > would do without it. > > I came across this group a couple days ago, while looking to > see if there was a RSD support group in my area. I often wish I had > someone to talk to who understands. I feel I have found those > people. Many of the stories I have read on this website sound so > similar to what I have been through. I look forward to sharing pain > and stimulator experiences with you all. > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 11, 2008 Report Share Posted December 11, 2008 Hello and welcome to the group. Insurances can be tough getting to pay for scs surgery. my suggestion is call your insurance company tell them after determined time limit you will retain a attorney that might help but make sure you can get a lawyer if need. About whaat the best scs they are all basically same just differnt brand. I l,ike medtronics there my favorite but ans is good bio is good to. I will post a link where you can see the surgery done. Mike group owner- -- In Stimulator , " fpddcso " <fpddcso@...> wrote: > > Hi everyone, I just wanted to take a minute to introduce myself and > ask a few questions. > > I became the proud member of the RDS club in Aug of this year. I had > fallen and done some tendon and ligament damage. Then alomg came RDS. > > For the most part i am learning to adjust with this. I do get very > very mad about this also and then think it could be worse. And that > helps a little. > > I am currently getting nerve blocks for my foot/ankle on a weekly > basis and they will last me about 3 days then I am back to toal pain. > I am waiting for insurance to approve me for SCS. > > Here is where my questions come into play..My insurance is not being > very cooperative in wanting to approve me. They feel I am making up > the pain etc... What can I do to help this process along? > > I would also like feedback on what type of SCS are better than others? > > Finally any good sites I can go and read more about the whole > procedure and recovery? > > Thanks All > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 11, 2008 Report Share Posted December 11, 2008 , A good place to start is our homepage. Click on " links " onthe left of the page. There is tons of info about stimulators, types, n the companies that make them. The only things I know about RSD is what I have learned here in this group. I am sure the other members will chime in soon. My insurance ( workers comp ) didn't believe either....u just have to keep pushing. Get another dr to diagnos if u can, or other doctors to agree with the current one. I only know the squeaky wheel gets the grease. If yours is regular insurance there are plenty here who have been thru that also. Feel free to ask as many questions as u like! Deanna Sent from my iPhone On Dec 11, 2008, at 9:11 AM, " fpddcso " <fpddcso@...> wrote: Hi everyone, I just wanted to take a minute to introduce myself and ask a few questions. I became the proud member of the RDS club in Aug of this year. I had fallen and done some tendon and ligament damage. Then alomg came RDS. For the most part i am learning to adjust with this. I do get very very mad about this also and then think it could be worse. And that helps a little. I am currently getting nerve blocks for my foot/ankle on a weekly basis and they will last me about 3 days then I am back to toal pain. I am waiting for insurance to approve me for SCS. Here is where my questions come into play..My insurance is not being very cooperative in wanting to approve me. They feel I am making up the pain etc... What can I do to help this process along? I would also like feedback on what type of SCS are better than others? Finally any good sites I can go and read more about the whole procedure and recovery? Thanks All Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 5, 2009 Report Share Posted January 5, 2009 and husband, well to this group. As Ann has stated there are many here with experiences that can help you. Ann was right in that not many who receive the myotomy and are helped move on to a normal live. It would be nice if more of the success stories stayed around to guide others, but many move on. I just posted some study results here on the board a few minutes ago, which I think will prove what she said. Anyway, we are happy to welcome you, just start asking questions about what you's like to know and many will be here to answer your questions. Maggie Alabama **************New year...new news. Be the first to know what is making headlines. (http://www.aol.com/?ncid=emlcntaolcom00000026) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 5, 2009 Report Share Posted January 5, 2009 Dear ,  I send you a very warm welcome to the Group. There are some very kind and wonderful people here who have medical knowledge, a lot of personal experience, helpful hints and a great deal of friendship and support to give. No-one can understand this achalasia thing like those of us who live it every day.  The best thing for you to do is ask the questions that you want answered. Try not to be put off by reading about the problems that some people have here, because we have found that most of the success stories don't post much to the group anymore and just get on with their new-found lives.  The majority of the members are from the States, as I know you are, so you will have no problems with relating to their experiences. They will be able to recommend Doctors and also discuss subjects like health insurance if you have difficulties there.  Good Luck to you and your Husband, and I wish you a positive future. Love from Ann (West Yorkshire, England) xx From: erikafried76 <erikafried76@...> Subject: New to the group achalasia Date: Monday, 5 January, 2009, 4:46 AM Hello. Thanks to Ann from England, my husband and I have been finally able to join a fantastic group. We have been on the net now for many hours reading a lot of your posted messages. My husband, who is 41 was just diagnosed (after almost a year of suffering). We are currently looking into the treatment, basically myotomy. It has been very interesting and frightening to read about living with achalasia, but knowing is still better than not knowing. My husband is scared for what's in store for him (long-term), but I hope that with your support we will be OK. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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