New with lots of questions

[Guest guest]

Hello everyone, I joined this group in hopes of finding some support and some

answers. It was the only really active group I could find.

Last week during a routine yearly physical my 13 year old daughter's doctor was

concerned about her back. We went and got the xrays done that same day. The next

day the doctor's nurse called and said my daughter has mild scoliosis and to

come back in 6 months. That was it, just hung up after that! Didn't bother

asking if we had any questions or concerns or anything! Needless to say, it left

us shocked and confused. I then went and got a copy of the report and this is

what it says " 10 degree dextrocurvature is present at T4. 9 degree levo

curvature is observed centered at L1. No hemivertebra or other deformities of

the thoracic vertebral bodies are present. Some subluxation or fracture. The

paraspinous soft tissues unremarkable. Conclusion: Mild S scoliosis "

Now, we have no idea what any of this means! We don't know if we should be

seeking a second opinion or are we ok to wait the 6 months for another check up?

Should we seek out a specialist? Can she still participate in sports and PE at

school? Are there any limitations? What do all those numbers and words in the

report mean?

As you can, we are very confused. I love her doctor very much and I fully trust

the doctor but she kind of dropped the ball on this by not offering us any

information! So, I am here hoping to find some answers and some advice!

Thanks

Jenn

[Guest guest]

Hi, Jill,  I am not a doctor, but I have had Scoli for a long time (since age

14 when I was diagnosed) with surgery 9 years ago.  I am 62.

 

Your daughter really does have mild scoliosis:  10 degree thoracic curve and

a 9 degree lumbar curve are considered normal.  She has an 'S' curve covering

a large number of her vertebra, beginning T4 (thoracic vertebrae #4) fourth bone

from the borrom of the 'knob' one can feel at the very top of the back where the

neck is attached, to Ll (Lumbar vertebrae #1) at the small of her back.  It is

barely noticeable, and at this stage, only a health professional could tell and

would need an xray to see it.  She will be fine if you waited for six months

until the next appointment:  the doctor wants to see if she progresses. 

Doctors don't consider surgery for scoli until at least the mid-40-degree

range.  Her thoracic curve is long and at L1, it begins to curve in the

opposite direction, thus the 's' curve.  I don't know what no 'hemivertebra'

means, but I think it means she doesn't have a double s curve.  No other

deformities means she doesn't

have other problems with her spine.

In my humble opinion, you don't have to worry any more, unless the doctor tells

you something different.  She's in good hands, you have said, and she's

otherwise fine.

 

Lana

From: jhills23 <JHills23@...>

Scoliosis Treatment

Sent: Monday, August 29, 2011 5:08 PM

Subject: New with lots of questions

 

Hello everyone, I joined this group in hopes of finding some support and some

answers. It was the only really active group I could find.

Last week during a routine yearly physical my 13 year old daughter's doctor was

concerned about her back. We went and got the xrays done that same day. The next

day the doctor's nurse called and said my daughter has mild scoliosis and to

come back in 6 months. That was it, just hung up after that! Didn't bother

asking if we had any questions or concerns or anything! Needless to say, it left

us shocked and confused. I then went and got a copy of the report and this is

what it says " 10 degree dextrocurvature is present at T4. 9 degree levo

curvature is observed centered at L1. No hemivertebra or other deformities of

the thoracic vertebral bodies are present. Some subluxation or fracture. The

paraspinous soft tissues unremarkable. Conclusion: Mild S scoliosis "

Now, we have no idea what any of this means! We don't know if we should be

seeking a second opinion or are we ok to wait the 6 months for another check up?

Should we seek out a specialist? Can she still participate in sports and PE at

school? Are there any limitations? What do all those numbers and words in the

report mean?

As you can, we are very confused. I love her doctor very much and I fully trust

the doctor but she kind of dropped the ball on this by not offering us any

information! So, I am here hoping to find some answers and some advice!

Thanks

Jenn

[Guest guest]

I was diagnosed with scoliosis 33 years ago when I was 16. My middle son

now has a mild curvature so I know the concern you are feeling. If I were

you, I would make a list of your questions and call the doctor back. A

curvature at 10 degrees is not technically considered scoliosis, not until

it is 20 degrees or more. A curve of 10 degrees could get better, or sadly,

it could get worse. The only thing to do at this point is to monitor it.

They typically have you come back after 6 months, so your doctor is using a

standard protocol. However, when my son was diagnosed with a slight curve -

8 degrees - I made the next appointment with a scoliosis specialist. You

can find doctors who are certified with the Scoliosis Society at www.srs.org

or ask your primary doctor for a referral. Over two years, my son's curve

has gone from 8 degrees, to 14 degrees, to 4 degrees, and this October we'll

see where it is at currently. You mention that the radiologist notes " Some

subluxation or fracture. " This would be something I would want clarified

before your daughter participates in P.E. (Subluxation is a term

Chiropractors us to describe vertebrae that are out of line which they work

to correct with spinal manipulation. Did you have a chiropractor do the

xrays?) The " fracture " comment I would want clarification on. I cannot

imagine that if there is a fracture why they didn't follow up on it as that

would be a very serious issue. I wouldn't become too alarmed about the

curvature at this point, but I would seriously consider taking your daughter

to a scoliosis specialist for her next check-up. I would also check her

yourself every month to see if her back looks any worse. Have her bend over

in front of you as the doctor did and see if there is a hump on one side or

the other and see if it appears worse. If you feel it is worse, take her in

to be rechecked before the 6 month date. If you are seeing a chiropractor,

please understand that they are unable to correct scoliosis. I have never

heard of anyone who had success down that road.

Good Luck,

Jeanne

From: Scoliosis Treatment

[mailto:Scoliosis Treatment ] On Behalf Of jhills23

Sent: Monday, August 29, 2011 4:09 PM

Scoliosis Treatment

Subject: New with lots of questions

Hello everyone, I joined this group in hopes of finding some support and

some answers. It was the only really active group I could find.

Last week during a routine yearly physical my 13 year old daughter's doctor

was concerned about her back. We went and got the xrays done that same day.

The next day the doctor's nurse called and said my daughter has mild

scoliosis and to come back in 6 months. That was it, just hung up after

that! Didn't bother asking if we had any questions or concerns or anything!

Needless to say, it left us shocked and confused. I then went and got a copy

of the report and this is what it says " 10 degree dextrocurvature is present

at T4. 9 degree levo curvature is observed centered at L1. No hemivertebra

or other deformities of the thoracic vertebral bodies are present. Some

subluxation or fracture. The paraspinous soft tissues unremarkable.

Conclusion: Mild S scoliosis "

Now, we have no idea what any of this means! We don't know if we should be

seeking a second opinion or are we ok to wait the 6 months for another check

up? Should we seek out a specialist? Can she still participate in sports and

PE at school? Are there any limitations? What do all those numbers and words

in the report mean?

As you can, we are very confused. I love her doctor very much and I fully

trust the doctor but she kind of dropped the ball on this by not offering us

any information! So, I am here hoping to find some answers and some advice!

Thanks

Jenn

[Guest guest]

Jenn, I definitely recommend you take your daughter to an orthopedic surgeon for

a second opinion. I was about her age when I was diagnosed, and now my curve is

probably about 50 degrees or so. It won't go away, but it can certainly worsen,

so I wouldn't wait six months. I don't think she'll be limited on things she

can do. I don't know what the numbers mean. My scoliosis was diagnosed a

looong time ago. Lol! Good luck!!!!

Joann

New with lots of questions

Hello everyone, I joined this group in hopes of finding some support and some

answers. It was the only really active group I could find.

Last week during a routine yearly physical my 13 year old daughter's doctor

was concerned about her back. We went and got the xrays done that same day. The

next day the doctor's nurse called and said my daughter has mild scoliosis and

to come back in 6 months. That was it, just hung up after that! Didn't bother

asking if we had any questions or concerns or anything! Needless to say, it left

us shocked and confused. I then went and got a copy of the report and this is

what it says " 10 degree dextrocurvature is present at T4. 9 degree levo

curvature is observed centered at L1. No hemivertebra or other deformities of

the thoracic vertebral bodies are present. Some subluxation or fracture. The

paraspinous soft tissues unremarkable. Conclusion: Mild S scoliosis "

Now, we have no idea what any of this means! We don't know if we should be

seeking a second opinion or are we ok to wait the 6 months for another check up?

Should we seek out a specialist? Can she still participate in sports and PE at

school? Are there any limitations? What do all those numbers and words in the

report mean?

As you can, we are very confused. I love her doctor very much and I fully

trust the doctor but she kind of dropped the ball on this by not offering us any

information! So, I am here hoping to find some answers and some advice!

Thanks

Jenn

[Guest guest]

New with lots of questions

Hello everyone, I joined this group in hopes of finding some support and some

answers. It was the only really active group I could find.

Last week during a routine yearly physical my 13 year old daughter's doctor was

concerned about her back. We went and got the xrays done that same day. The next

day the doctor's nurse called and said my daughter has mild scoliosis and to

come back in 6 months. That was it, just hung up after that! Didn't bother

asking if we had any questions or concerns or anything! Needless to say, it left

us shocked and confused. I then went and got a copy of the report and this is

what it says " 10 degree dextrocurvature is present at T4. 9 degree levo

curvature is observed centered at L1. No hemivertebra or other deformities of

the thoracic vertebral bodies are present. Some subluxation or fracture. The

paraspinous soft tissues unremarkable. Conclusion: Mild S scoliosis "

Now, we have no idea what any of this means! We don't know if we should be

seeking a second opinion or are we ok to wait the 6 months for another check up?

Should we seek out a specialist? Can she still participate in sports and PE at

school? Are there any limitations? What do all those numbers and words in the

report mean?

As you can, we are very confused. I love her doctor very much and I fully trust

the doctor but she kind of dropped the ball on this by not offering us any

information! So, I am here hoping to find some answers and some advice!

Thanks

Jenn

[Guest guest]

Hi Jenn:

Although it does not appear that your daughter's doctor has the greatest

" bedside manner " , the general rule of thumb is to simply observe curves less

that 30 degrees with follow-up appointments ever three to six months. This is

especially true with preteens and young teens.

A 10 degree curve is extremely mild. Furthermore, there is always a 5 degree

+/- when a curve is measured.

Generally, curves less that 30 degrees are observed. Curves between 30 degrees

and 40 degrees are braces (generally with a Thoracic-Lumbar-Sacral Orthosis

Brace (TLSO), often referred to as a " Boston Brace)). If the major curve is a

high thoracic, a Cervico-Thoraco-Lumbo-Sacral Orthosis (Milwaukee) Brace is

used. (FYI: I wore both a Milwaukee and a TLSO during my brace treatment as the

TLSO was not generally used/excepted by " main stream " doctors until the late

1970's). Surgery is generally recommended if the major curve is thoracic and

greater than 40 degrees and/or the major curve is lumbar and greater than 50

degrees.

Although your daughter's curve(s) is/are very mild, in order to ease your

concerns, you may want to refer to the Scoliosis Research Society web site at

www.srs.org. SRS members are orthopedic surgeons who sub-specialize in the

treatment of scoliosis. In the upper right corner of the home page you will see

" Find a Specialist " . Search on your city/state and Adolescent and/or

Juvenile/Infantile.

I hope this helps!!

S.

New with lots of questions

Hello everyone, I joined this group in hopes of finding some support and some

answers. It was the only really active group I could find.

Last week during a routine yearly physical my 13 year old daughter's doctor was

concerned about her back. We went and got the xrays done that same day. The next

day the doctor's nurse called and said my daughter has mild scoliosis and to

come back in 6 months. That was it, just hung up after that! Didn't bother

asking if we had any questions or concerns or anything! Needless to say, it left

us shocked and confused. I then went and got a copy of the report and this is

what it says " 10 degree dextrocurvature is present at T4. 9 degree levo

curvature is observed centered at L1. No hemivertebra or other deformities of

the thoracic vertebral bodies are present. Some subluxation or fracture. The

paraspinous soft tissues unremarkable. Conclusion: Mild S scoliosis "

Now, we have no idea what any of this means! We don't know if we should be

seeking a second opinion or are we ok to wait the 6 months for another check up?

Should we seek out a specialist? Can she still participate in sports and PE at

school? Are there any limitations? What do all those numbers and words in the

report mean?

As you can, we are very confused. I love her doctor very much and I fully trust

the doctor but she kind of dropped the ball on this by not offering us any

information! So, I am here hoping to find some answers and some advice!

Thanks

Jenn

[Guest guest]

I would add to keep your daughter informed, let her make limited choices about

her scoliosis and keep the core muscles strong through exercises like walking,

swimming, etc. Also be sure to get copies of the medical records for your/her

private file, so that you have the history. At her stage, I would not be overly

concerned, but we are here to help answer questions and give you our

opinion/experience. Llweyn

Sent from my BlackBerry device on the Wireless Network

New with lots of questions

Hello everyone, I joined this group in hopes of finding some support and some

answers. It was the only really active group I could find.

Last week during a routine yearly physical my 13 year old daughter's doctor was

concerned about her back. We went and got the xrays done that same day. The next

day the doctor's nurse called and said my daughter has mild scoliosis and to

come back in 6 months. That was it, just hung up after that! Didn't bother

asking if we had any questions or concerns or anything! Needless to say, it left

us shocked and confused. I then went and got a copy of the report and this is

what it says " 10 degree dextrocurvature is present at T4. 9 degree levo

curvature is observed centered at L1. No hemivertebra or other deformities of

the thoracic vertebral bodies are present. Some subluxation or fracture. The

paraspinous soft tissues unremarkable. Conclusion: Mild S scoliosis "

Now, we have no idea what any of this means! We don't know if we should be

seeking a second opinion or are we ok to wait the 6 months for another check up?

Should we seek out a specialist? Can she still participate in sports and PE at

school? Are there any limitations? What do all those numbers and words in the

report mean?

As you can, we are very confused. I love her doctor very much and I fully trust

the doctor but she kind of dropped the ball on this by not offering us any

information! So, I am here hoping to find some answers and some advice!

Thanks

Jenn

[Guest guest]

Hi Jenn,

In addition to what has already been suggested, pls also consider the Schroth

Method which is a nonsurgical treatment of scoliosis:

" The Schroth Method is a physiotherapeutic treatment system which uses

isometric and other exercises to strengthen or lengthen asymmetrical

muscles in a scoliotic body. Its goals are to halt progression of

abnormal spinal curvature, and in the best case to reverse the curves. "

http://www.schrothmethod.com/

Pls also consider the Spinecor Brace if your daughter's curve progresses:  The

Spinecor " Is the first and only truly dynamic brace, which provides a

progressive correction of Idiopathic Scoliosis from 15º Cobb angle and above. "

www.spinecorporation.com

Best regards,

M.

________________________________

From: jhills23 <JHills23@...>

Scoliosis Treatment

Sent: Monday, August 29, 2011 5:08:31 PM

Subject: New with lots of questions

 

Hello everyone, I joined this group in hopes of finding some support and some

answers. It was the only really active group I could find.

Last week during a routine yearly physical my 13 year old daughter's doctor was

concerned about her back. We went and got the xrays done that same day. The next

day the doctor's nurse called and said my daughter has mild scoliosis and to

come back in 6 months. That was it, just hung up after that! Didn't bother

asking if we had any questions or concerns or anything! Needless to say, it left

us shocked and confused. I then went and got a copy of the report and this is

what it says " 10 degree dextrocurvature is present at T4. 9 degree levo

curvature is observed centered at L1. No hemivertebra or other deformities of

the thoracic vertebral bodies are present. Some subluxation or fracture. The

paraspinous soft tissues unremarkable. Conclusion: Mild S scoliosis "

Now, we have no idea what any of this means! We don't know if we should be

seeking a second opinion or are we ok to wait the 6 months for another check up?

Should we seek out a specialist? Can she still participate in sports and PE at

school? Are there any limitations? What do all those numbers and words in the

report mean?

As you can, we are very confused. I love her doctor very much and I fully trust

the doctor but she kind of dropped the ball on this by not offering us any

information! So, I am here hoping to find some answers and some advice!

Thanks

Jenn

[Guest guest]

When it comes to an initial diagnosis of scoliosis I WOULD NOT accept it from a

chiropractor or an orthopedic surgeon who does not specialize in the treatment

of scoliosis. It would be best if the doctor is a member of the Scoliosis

Research Society or similar organization. Scoliosis is an extremely specialized

area of spinal orthopedics, and the treatment is also there of. This is

especially true with issues relating to Flatback Syndrome.

S.

New with lots of questions

>

>

>

>

>

> Hello everyone, I joined this group in hopes of finding some support and some

answers. It was the only really active group I could find.

>

> Last week during a routine yearly physical my 13 year old daughter's doctor

was concerned about her back. We went and got the xrays done that same day. The

next day the doctor's nurse called and said my daughter has mild scoliosis and

to come back in 6 months. That was it, just hung up after that! Didn't bother

asking if we had any questions or concerns or anything! Needless to say, it left

us shocked and confused. I then went and got a copy of the report and this is

what it says " 10 degree dextrocurvature is present at T4. 9 degree levo

curvature is observed centered at L1. No hemivertebra or other deformities of

the thoracic vertebral bodies are present. Some subluxation or fracture. The

paraspinous soft tissues unremarkable. Conclusion: Mild S scoliosis "

>

> Now, we have no idea what any of this means! We don't know if we should be

seeking a second opinion or are we ok to wait the 6 months for another check up?

Should we seek out a specialist? Can she still participate in sports and PE at

school? Are there any limitations? What do all those numbers and words in the

report mean?

>

> As you can, we are very confused. I love her doctor very much and I fully

trust the doctor but she kind of dropped the ball on this by not offering us any

information! So, I am here hoping to find some answers and some advice!

>

> Thanks

> Jenn

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

I learned from my scoli surgeon that scoli curves are worse in the afternoon

than in the morning, but a 20 degree mistake probably wasn't caused by this.

lj

From: Meow Mel <meowmel@...>

Scoliosis Treatment

Sent: Saturday, September 3, 2011 7:30 AM

Subject: Re: New with lots of questions

 

Do NOT put your full trust in any professional. We went through three different

" professionals " : An Urgent Care facility and the xray doctor who read the

initial xray (incorrectly), the pediatrician who NEVER even bent her over, and

finally and most egregiously, the chiropractor who never pointed out that her

curve was way more than the the " less than 10 degree " curve my daughter actually

had (almost 30 degree initially). We missed a good year and a half and it was

suddenly TOO LATE. Get her to at least three pediatric orthopedists over the

course of your journey. I pray that she does not progress, but watch it like a

hawk, especially directly before and after menses... what area of the country to

you live? I can recommend some and steer you away from others in the VA/NC

area...

Mel

>

> I would add to keep your daughter informed, let her make limited choices about

her scoliosis and keep the core muscles strong through exercises like walking,

swimming, etc. Also be sure to get copies of the medical records for your/her

private file, so that you have the history. At her stage, I would not be overly

concerned, but we are here to help answer questions and give you our

opinion/experience. Llweyn

> Sent from my BlackBerry device on the Wireless Network

>

> New with lots of questions

>

>

>

>

>

> Hello everyone, I joined this group in hopes of finding some support and some

answers. It was the only really active group I could find.

>

> Last week during a routine yearly physical my 13 year old daughter's doctor

was concerned about her back. We went and got the xrays done that same day. The

next day the doctor's nurse called and said my daughter has mild scoliosis and

to come back in 6 months. That was it, just hung up after that! Didn't bother

asking if we had any questions or concerns or anything! Needless to say, it left

us shocked and confused. I then went and got a copy of the report and this is

what it says " 10 degree dextrocurvature is present at T4. 9 degree levo

curvature is observed centered at L1. No hemivertebra or other deformities of

the thoracic vertebral bodies are present. Some subluxation or fracture. The

paraspinous soft tissues unremarkable. Conclusion: Mild S scoliosis "

>

> Now, we have no idea what any of this means! We don't know if we should be

seeking a second opinion or are we ok to wait the 6 months for another check up?

Should we seek out a specialist? Can she still participate in sports and PE at

school? Are there any limitations? What do all those numbers and words in the

report mean?

>

> As you can, we are very confused. I love her doctor very much and I fully

trust the doctor but she kind of dropped the ball on this by not offering us any

information! So, I am here hoping to find some answers and some advice!

>

> Thanks

> Jenn

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

So true Mel.

Scollisis is such a specialized field and most pediatric doctors and

primary care doctors seem to know little about it and don't check for it. I'm

guessing they aren't trained on it.

Even degrees read by a radiologist can differ. Most scoliosis specialist

read them where the first rib curve to the last curve (I think). Starting

at a different rib can change the entire result. Now some computers take

the measurement. It might be helpful to know which ribs the measurements

begin and end for future comparisons whoever measures. Plus or minus 5

degrees as a statistical degree of error is standard and shouldn't be a

concern.

Get 3 opinions from 3 top scoliosis specialist surgeons not orthpedic

surgeons. It takes an extra skilled and trained surgeon to handle such a

complex surgery. Ask here for your area qualified doctors, SRS.org members, or

Shriners' Children Hospitals.

Jolene Morell

Shop online at _www.InheritedButtons.com_

(http://www.inheritedbuttons.com/)

[Guest guest]

I really had a good chuckle when I read about this " curvature " comment.

 

Just recently, during my first visit with my future surgeon, Dr. Bridwell

at Washington University in St. Louis........a young resident surgeon had

measured my Cobb angle at approximately 45 degrees and was showing Dr. Bridwell

the results.  Dr. Bridwell almost was chuckling out loud himself when I

overheard him tell the young resident....... " NO, NO, NO.......re-measure " .  (My

thoracolumbar curve is currently " somewhere " between 60 and 70

degrees..........I'll find out for sure the " real " results during my next visit

the end of this week). 

 

Just goes to show you, as I read here recently.......never to put your all your

trust in the Doctors!

 

 Hope everyone is relaxing this holiday weekend..............Sue Zorn

From: " Buttonjo@... " <Buttonjo@...>

>Scoliosis Treatment

>Sent: Monday, September 5, 2011 1:59 PM

>Subject: Re: New with lots of questions

>

>

> 

>So true Mel.

>Scollisis is such a specialized field and most pediatric doctors and

>primary care doctors seem to know little about it and don't check for it. I'm

>guessing they aren't trained on it.

>

>Even degrees read by a radiologist can differ. Most scoliosis specialist

>read them where the first rib curve to the last curve (I think). Starting

>at a different rib can change the entire result. Now some computers take

>the measurement. It might be helpful to know which ribs the measurements

>begin and end for future comparisons whoever measures. Plus or minus 5

>degrees as a statistical degree of error is standard and shouldn't be a

concern.

>

>

>Get 3 opinions from 3 top scoliosis specialist surgeons not orthpedic

>surgeons. It takes an extra skilled and trained surgeon to handle such a

>complex surgery. Ask here for your area qualified doctors, SRS.org members, or

>Shriners' Children Hospitals.

>

>Jolene Morell

>Shop online at _www.InheritedButtons.com_

>(http://www.inheritedbuttons.com/)

>

>

[Guest guest]

sorry to respond that spinecore isn't considered adequate - don't know about

schroth - it seems that nothing is a treatment other than bracing and, if that

fails, surgery - scoliosis is a dreadful diagnosis

New with lots of questions

Hello everyone, I joined this group in hopes of finding some support and some

answers. It was the only really active group I could find.

Last week during a routine yearly physical my 13 year old daughter's doctor was

concerned about her back. We went and got the xrays done that same day. The next

day the doctor's nurse called and said my daughter has mild scoliosis and to

come back in 6 months. That was it, just hung up after that! Didn't bother

asking if we had any questions or concerns or anything! Needless to say, it left

us shocked and confused. I then went and got a copy of the report and this is

what it says " 10 degree dextrocurvature is present at T4. 9 degree levo

curvature is observed centered at L1. No hemivertebra or other deformities of

the thoracic vertebral bodies are present. Some subluxation or fracture. The

paraspinous soft tissues unremarkable. Conclusion: Mild S scoliosis "

Now, we have no idea what any of this means! We don't know if we should be

seeking a second opinion or are we ok to wait the 6 months for another check up?

Should we seek out a specialist? Can she still participate in sports and PE at

school? Are there any limitations? What do all those numbers and words in the

report mean?

As you can, we are very confused. I love her doctor very much and I fully trust

the doctor but she kind of dropped the ball on this by not offering us any

information! So, I am here hoping to find some answers and some advice!

Thanks

Jenn

[Guest guest]

Cancer is dreadful not scoliosis. My daughter had her surgery and while it was

hard, it is done and over now and she has the rest of her life.

From: Scoliosis Treatment

[mailto:Scoliosis Treatment ] On Behalf Of KnightonND@...

Sent: Friday, September 09, 2011 2:47 PM

Scoliosis Treatment

Subject: Re: New with lots of questions

sorry to respond that spinecore isn't considered adequate - don't know about

schroth - it seems that nothing is a treatment other than bracing and, if that

fails, surgery - scoliosis is a dreadful diagnosis

New with lots of questions

Hello everyone, I joined this group in hopes of finding some support and some

answers. It was the only really active group I could find.

Last week during a routine yearly physical my 13 year old daughter's doctor was

concerned about her back. We went and got the xrays done that same day. The next

day the doctor's nurse called and said my daughter has mild scoliosis and to

come back in 6 months. That was it, just hung up after that! Didn't bother

asking if we had any questions or concerns or anything! Needless to say, it left

us shocked and confused. I then went and got a copy of the report and this is

what it says " 10 degree dextrocurvature is present at T4. 9 degree levo

curvature is observed centered at L1. No hemivertebra or other deformities of

the thoracic vertebral bodies are present. Some subluxation or fracture. The

paraspinous soft tissues unremarkable. Conclusion: Mild S scoliosis "

Now, we have no idea what any of this means! We don't know if we should be

seeking a second opinion or are we ok to wait the 6 months for another check up?

Should we seek out a specialist? Can she still participate in sports and PE at

school? Are there any limitations? What do all those numbers and words in the

report mean?

As you can, we are very confused. I love her doctor very much and I fully trust

the doctor but she kind of dropped the ball on this by not offering us any

information! So, I am here hoping to find some answers and some advice!

Thanks

Jenn

[Guest guest]

I beg to differ. Scoliosis can cause permanent and debilitating problems. I am

in severe pain 24/7 and can hardly walk anymore and that's after 4 corrective

surgeries. This extreme pain is something I am going to have to live with the

rest of my life. I have lost my job, my way of life, my wife and my financial

security because scoliosis has left me permanently disabled. Add to that the

depression and other results of living with severe chronic pain and you can just

imagine how miserable it can get. In addition those not treated for scoliosis

can actually die from it because it can constrict the heart and lungs causing

secondary issues which can be fatal. And even those with corrective surgery that

work might develop flat back syndrome, chronic pain, lung infections leading to

pneumonia or worse, heart trouble, stenosis, failed joints, ruptured discs,

arthritis, and a myriad of other complications. Scoliosis is one of the most

dreadful things you can have and although some people have successful surgeries

and lead a relatively normal life there are thousands of people who don't. I

honestly and truly wish your daughter all the best in the future and hope she

does lead a normal life because like it or not scoliosis is a dreadful thing to

have for some.

Moderator

>

> Cancer is dreadful not scoliosis. My daughter had her surgery and while it was

hard, it is done and over now and she has the rest of her life.

>

>

[Guest guest]

I'm with you . I've been suffering for 20 years. Not as long as you but it

seems like forever. I lost my job, luckily not my home tho due to good

disability insurance. I've spent thousands of dollars trying to find a way out

of this pain. I did have a great year right after my 2nd surgery but the rods

broke due to lack of fusion and my revision surgeries left me again in 24/7

pain. It gets worse as I get older (54) in that I'm losing my strength as well

as my drive to keep enduring. Of course cancer is a terrible diagnosis. But you

can't compare one to the other except in that with either diagnosis you have

different results. Some people die of cancer, others come through with flying

colors. Some suffer great pain others don't. It's the same with scoliosis. The

trouble with scoliosis tho, is that so many people assume that we don't and

shouldn't be in pain. And then when we are, many assume we are either making it

up or weak or have a " low tolerance

for pain " as I've heard more times than I can count. To that I say, if anyone

were to step into my body, they'd be blown away by the amount of pain I endure

on a daily and constant basis.

Also with scoliosis there is so little known about it. Mine was ignored for many

years and when the pain began I was still ignored.

It's best to not compare. It's really insulting to those of us who know better.

________________________________

From: <legerpj@...>

Scoliosis Treatment

Sent: Saturday, September 10, 2011 12:09 PM

Subject: Re: New with lots of questions

 

I beg to differ. Scoliosis can cause permanent and debilitating problems. I am

in severe pain 24/7 and can hardly walk anymore and that's after 4 corrective

surgeries. This extreme pain is something I am going to have to live with the

rest of my life. I have lost my job, my way of life, my wife and my financial

security because scoliosis has left me permanently disabled. Add to that the

depression and other results of living with severe chronic pain and you can just

imagine how miserable it can get. In addition those not treated for scoliosis

can actually die from it because it can constrict the heart and lungs causing

secondary issues which can be fatal. And even those with corrective surgery that

work might develop flat back syndrome, chronic pain, lung infections leading to

pneumonia or worse, heart trouble, stenosis, failed joints, ruptured discs,

arthritis, and a myriad of other complications. Scoliosis is one of the most

dreadful things you can

have and although some people have successful surgeries and lead a relatively

normal life there are thousands of people who don't. I honestly and truly wish

your daughter all the best in the future and hope she does lead a normal life

because like it or not scoliosis is a dreadful thing to have for some.

Moderator

>

> Cancer is dreadful not scoliosis. My daughter had her surgery and while it was

hard, it is done and over now and she has the rest of her life.

>

>

[Guest guest]

And these days.........cancer is not always dreadful.

 

My husband had Stage 4 Colon Cancer which spread to a spot on his liver.  It

was not in his lymph nodes.  After 11 hr. surgery and 5 months of chemo at a

Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in Hong Kong........he is 8+ yrs Cancer Free! 

And he is living the rest of his life!  We think positive and have been

blessed.  Thank God.

 

    Sue Zorn 

 

P.S.  I hope to be as fortunate as your daughter, as I have fusion surgery

scheduled for Sept. 27th with Dr. Bridwell in St. Louis.  My husband

always said that he was glad that it was himself instead of me with the Cancer

thing.  He knows I'm a pretty big " baby " when it involves these issues.  So

between Cancer & Scoliosis in one couple.........we hope this is all God gives

us to handle, right now anyway.

From: Lyta2000 <Lyta2000@...>

>Scoliosis Treatment

>Sent: Saturday, September 10, 2011 9:25 AM

>Subject: RE: New with lots of questions

>

>

>  

>

>Cancer is dreadful not scoliosis. My daughter had her surgery and while it was

hard, it is done and over now and she has the rest of her life.

>

>From: Scoliosis Treatment

[mailto:Scoliosis Treatment ] On Behalf Of KnightonND@...

>Sent: Friday, September 09, 2011 2:47 PM

>Scoliosis Treatment

>Subject: Re: New with lots of questions

>

>sorry to respond that spinecore isn't considered adequate - don't know about

schroth - it seems that nothing is a treatment other than bracing and, if that

fails, surgery - scoliosis is a dreadful diagnosis

>

> New with lots of questions

>

>Hello everyone, I joined this group in hopes of finding some support and some

answers. It was the only really active group I could find.

>

>Last week during a routine yearly physical my 13 year old daughter's doctor was

concerned about her back. We went and got the xrays done that same day. The next

day the doctor's nurse called and said my daughter has mild scoliosis and to

come back in 6 months. That was it, just hung up after that! Didn't bother

asking if we had any questions or concerns or anything! Needless to say, it left

us shocked and confused. I then went and got a copy of the report and this is

what it says " 10 degree dextrocurvature is present at T4. 9 degree levo

curvature is observed centered at L1. No hemivertebra or other deformities of

the thoracic vertebral bodies are present. Some subluxation or fracture. The

paraspinous soft tissues unremarkable. Conclusion: Mild S scoliosis "

>

>Now, we have no idea what any of this means! We don't know if we should be

seeking a second opinion or are we ok to wait the 6 months for another check up?

Should we seek out a specialist? Can she still participate in sports and PE at

school? Are there any limitations? What do all those numbers and words in the

report mean?

>

>As you can, we are very confused. I love her doctor very much and I fully trust

the doctor but she kind of dropped the ball on this by not offering us any

information! So, I am here hoping to find some answers and some advice!

>

>Thanks

>Jenn

>

>

[Guest guest]

My parents thought the same thing after my surgery. I did too, I mean the

doctors said I was fixed and could go about the rest of my life. And wasn't it

great that we took care of it when I was young so that the rest of my life could

be all roses and sunshine without pain. I pray that your daughter does not have

any complications later on, I would not wish that on anyone.

Imagine having pain that keeps getting worse and worse and the doctors telling

you it didn't exist, that you were fixed and there was no reason for your pain.

I was treated like I was just a drug seeking liar. I felt like I was crazy

because everyone kept telling me there was no reason for my pain so there was

the implication that there was no real pain. I am still able to work part time

but had to miss a day last week because I could not bend over to put my own

shoes on and my husband wasn't here to help me. I am incredibly lucky to have a

husband that is pretty intuitive and doesn't make me ask for help all the time.

But the first time I had to ask for help with my shoes was a pretty low point

for me.

So no my original diagnosis of scoliosis wasn't as dreadful as a potential life

ending cancer of diagnosis. But it has robbed me of my quality of life all the

same. And it limits my life in ways that I hope you never have to witness with

your own daughter.

On Sep 9, 2011, at 8:25 PM, " Lyta2000 " <Lyta2000@...> wrote:

> Cancer is dreadful not scoliosis. My daughter had her surgery and while it was

hard, it is done and over now and she has the rest of her life.

>

> From: Scoliosis Treatment

[mailto:Scoliosis Treatment ] On Behalf Of KnightonND@...

> Sent: Friday, September 09, 2011 2:47 PM

> Scoliosis Treatment

> Subject: Re: New with lots of questions

>

> sorry to respond that spinecore isn't considered adequate - don't know about

schroth - it seems that nothing is a treatment other than bracing and, if that

fails, surgery - scoliosis is a dreadful diagnosis

>

> New with lots of questions

>

> Hello everyone, I joined this group in hopes of finding some support and some

answers. It was the only really active group I could find.

>

> Last week during a routine yearly physical my 13 year old daughter's doctor

was concerned about her back. We went and got the xrays done that same day. The

next day the doctor's nurse called and said my daughter has mild scoliosis and

to come back in 6 months. That was it, just hung up after that! Didn't bother

asking if we had any questions or concerns or anything! Needless to say, it left

us shocked and confused. I then went and got a copy of the report and this is

what it says " 10 degree dextrocurvature is present at T4. 9 degree levo

curvature is observed centered at L1. No hemivertebra or other deformities of

the thoracic vertebral bodies are present. Some subluxation or fracture. The

paraspinous soft tissues unremarkable. Conclusion: Mild S scoliosis "

>

> Now, we have no idea what any of this means! We don't know if we should be

seeking a second opinion or are we ok to wait the 6 months for another check up?

Should we seek out a specialist? Can she still participate in sports and PE at

school? Are there any limitations? What do all those numbers and words in the

report mean?

>

> As you can, we are very confused. I love her doctor very much and I fully

trust the doctor but she kind of dropped the ball on this by not offering us any

information! So, I am here hoping to find some answers and some advice!

>

> Thanks

> Jenn

>

>

[Guest guest]

Hi.........

 

    If case you missed my email on Sept 5......I told the group about a new

research study on scoliosis being conducted through 5 different spine centers in

the U.S.  I viewed this as good news for at least scoliosis patients in the

future.

 

    Sue Zorn

From: Randie Meyer <taknitlite@...>

> " Scoliosis Treatment " <Scoliosis Treatment >

>Sent: Sunday, September 11, 2011 2:35 AM

>Subject: Re: Re: New with lots of questions

>

>

>  

>

>I'm with you . I've been suffering for 20 years. Not as long as you but it

seems like forever. I lost my job, luckily not my home tho due to good

disability insurance. I've spent thousands of dollars trying to find a way out

of this pain. I did have a great year right after my 2nd surgery but the rods

broke due to lack of fusion and my revision surgeries left me again in 24/7

pain. It gets worse as I get older (54) in that I'm losing my strength as well

as my drive to keep enduring. Of course cancer is a terrible diagnosis. But you

can't compare one to the other except in that with either diagnosis you have

different results. Some people die of cancer, others come through with flying

colors. Some suffer great pain others don't. It's the same with scoliosis. The

trouble with scoliosis tho, is that so many people assume that we don't and

shouldn't be in pain. And then when we are, many assume we are either making it

up or weak or have a " low tolerance

>for pain " as I've heard more times than I can count. To that I say, if anyone

were to step into my body, they'd be blown away by the amount of pain I endure

on a daily and constant basis.

>

>Also with scoliosis there is so little known about it. Mine was ignored for

many years and when the pain began I was still ignored.

>

>It's best to not compare. It's really insulting to those of us who know better.

>

>________________________________

>From: <legerpj@...>

>Scoliosis Treatment

>Sent: Saturday, September 10, 2011 12:09 PM

>Subject: Re: New with lots of questions

>

> 

>I beg to differ. Scoliosis can cause permanent and debilitating problems. I am

in severe pain 24/7 and can hardly walk anymore and that's after 4 corrective

surgeries. This extreme pain is something I am going to have to live with the

rest of my life. I have lost my job, my way of life, my wife and my financial

security because scoliosis has left me permanently disabled. Add to that the

depression and other results of living with severe chronic pain and you can just

imagine how miserable it can get. In addition those not treated for scoliosis

can actually die from it because it can constrict the heart and lungs causing

secondary issues which can be fatal. And even those with corrective surgery that

work might develop flat back syndrome, chronic pain, lung infections leading to

pneumonia or worse, heart trouble, stenosis, failed joints, ruptured discs,

arthritis, and a myriad of other complications. Scoliosis is one of the most

dreadful things you can

>have and although some people have successful surgeries and lead a relatively

normal life there are thousands of people who don't. I honestly and truly wish

your daughter all the best in the future and hope she does lead a normal life

because like it or not scoliosis is a dreadful thing to have for some.

>

>

>Moderator

>

>

>>

>> Cancer is dreadful not scoliosis. My daughter had her surgery and while it

was hard, it is done and over now and she has the rest of her life.

>>

>>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Must say I disagree with you, Lyta. Scoliosis is not a walk in the park for many

people. My daughter (25) is severely disabled and scoliosis is one of the most

horrible conditions that affect her. She had surgery 11 yrs ago (age 14) to have

rods put in only to have them break within a couple of years. (they say titanium

steel doesn't break and they are wrong!) She had surgery this past June to have

the rods removed because they had broken in 6 places and one was protruding

through her upper back! Her pain was incredible and we were praying for some

relief with the rods out. Sadly she is still hurting but again she still has

scoliosis. We are not sure we will put her through the surgery again to have

more put back in. She almost died with the first surgery putting them in. Was on

life support for 8 days. God gave her back to us and I am very cautious about

her care.

To say scoli is not dreadful is wrong. It can kill a person if it gets so bad it

presses against the lungs, heart and other organs. And that isn't unusual either

so the odds are definitly there!

You're blessed your daughter didn't have any problems from her surgery but many

are not. Don't judge everyones Scoli to your daughters because obviously all are

not the same. Many have morphine pumps implanted due to the pain. I wouldn't

wish this condition on anyone!

~ Wanda ~

>

> Cancer is dreadful not scoliosis. My daughter had her surgery and while it was

hard, it is done and over now and she has the rest of her life.

>

[Guest guest]

Hi,  I am new to this group ...I did a email several days ago but it  didn't

go through ... Please let me know this  email made it though??   MickyB

________________________________

From: <legerpj@...>

Scoliosis Treatment

Sent: Saturday, September 10, 2011 2:09 PM

Subject: Re: New with lots of questions

 

I beg to differ. Scoliosis can cause permanent and debilitating problems. I am

in severe pain 24/7 and can hardly walk anymore and that's after 4 corrective

surgeries. This extreme pain is something I am going to have to live with the

rest of my life. I have lost my job, my way of life, my wife and my financial

security because scoliosis has left me permanently disabled. Add to that the

depression and other results of living with severe chronic pain and you can just

imagine how miserable it can get. In addition those not treated for scoliosis

can actually die from it because it can constrict the heart and lungs causing

secondary issues which can be fatal. And even those with corrective surgery that

work might develop flat back syndrome, chronic pain, lung infections leading to

pneumonia or worse, heart trouble, stenosis, failed joints, ruptured discs,

arthritis, and a myriad of other complications. Scoliosis is one of the most

dreadful things you can

have and although some people have successful surgeries and lead a relatively

normal life there are thousands of people who don't. I honestly and truly wish

your daughter all the best in the future and hope she does lead a normal life

because like it or not scoliosis is a dreadful thing to have for some.

Moderator

>

> Cancer is dreadful not scoliosis. My daughter had her surgery and while it was

hard, it is done and over now and she has the rest of her life.

>

>

[Guest guest]

Not sure where your message went... all the ones sitting in the pending folder

were approved.

Moderator

> >

> > Cancer is dreadful not scoliosis. My daughter had her surgery and while it

was hard, it is done and over now and she has the rest of her life.

> >

> >

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Hi ,  I am new here , does anyone know  Dr.  Moreno, at the Moreno

Scoliosis Spine Center , in The Tampa , FL area?  He is operating on me on

Nov.  14th... trying to check him out ... Thank you ...Micky B

________________________________

From: <legerpj@...>

Scoliosis Treatment

Sent: Thursday, September 15, 2011 2:35 PM

Subject: Re: New with lots of questions

 

Not sure where your message went... all the ones sitting in the pending folder

were approved.

Moderator

> >

> > Cancer is dreadful not scoliosis. My daughter had her surgery and while it

was hard, it is done and over now and she has the rest of her life.

> >

> >

>

>

>

>

>