Guest guest Posted January 30, 2008 Report Share Posted January 30, 2008 A.J. Again, Welcome! I wholeheartedly concur with Cam but would like to add that I feel a couple of other modalities may make you more comfortable and relieve pain more long term than chiropractics. Those are things like Yoga and Pilates, as well as Rolfing or structural integration. Structural integration (Rolfing) helps to stretch and lengthen tightened ligaments/muscles/fascia that have tightened due to your scoliosis. Yoga and Pilates lengthen and strengthen your muscles, developing your critical core muscles. With or without a future of additional surgery, it is in your best interest to get in your best physical shape ever. Keep us posted as you travel on your journey. From: [mailto: ] On Behalf Of cammaltby Sent: Wednesday, January 30, 2008 3:05 AM Subject: [ ] Re: Hello.... I'm AJ Hi AJ, Welcome to the group. I am sorry you are experiencing problems with your back right now. Many folks find that as time goes on the discs below their fusion take a lot more of the " load " and it is not too uncommon for people to develop degenerative disc disease at a fairly young age. Others, unfortunately, end up with full blown flatback fairly quickly after their surgery due to poor surgical technique or positioning during that surgery. No one here is a doctor so you should take all that with a grain of salt! Still, before I went the chiropracter route I would strongly recommend you get yourself into the very best spine doctor you can who has experience and specializes in adult scolisosis, deformity and/or aging spine. The Scoliosis Research Society, based here in the US, has a physician locator on their site (www.srs.org) to assist folks in locating surgeons who have a particular interest in our kinds of problems. In order to join this society at least 20% of their practice is supposed to be devoted to scoliosis. Many of the doctors also have specialized even further. I pulled down the current listings for Singapore and got these 4 listings: Pesi B. Chacha, MD Mount Medical Centre 65 68363585 Chacha Ortho, Spine & Hand Surgery PTE L 3 Mount #03-01/02 Singapore 228510 Singapore Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, Juvenile/Infantile Jimmy S. Daruwalla, MD Daruwalla Orthopaedic, Spine & Hand Surgery 65 68369290 3 Mt #03-01 Mount Medical Center Singapore 228510 Singapore Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, Juvenile/Infantile Chong-Tien Tan, MD Island Spine and Scoliosis 65-6737-5683 #06-03 Mt. Medical Centre 3 Mt. Singapore 228510 Singapore Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, Juvenile/Infantile Hee-Kit Wong, MD Department of Orthopaedic Surgery 65 67795555 / 4342 National University Hospital Lower Kent Ridge Rd Singapore 119074 Singapore Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions I am in no way recommending any one of them, just trying to point you to a good starting place for further research. For most of us who have developed flatback, chiropractic care would not be anything more than paliative treatment. Flatback is a structural problem. The chance that a chiropracter could make things worse for you exists as your spine does not have the mobility of an an ufused spine does. Honestly, I have read that chiropracters claim they can cure scoliosis, but my personal opinion (and others!)is that is " bunk " . I haven't read or seen any research that indicates that it can do much more than keep a young patient comfortable while the spine is growing. How much curve will exist once growth is complete is a a mystery to most doctors...so a chiro claiming that they have stopped the progression is kind of like someone claiming they saved a tree from a lightning strike...maybe the curve would have progressed to a serious/surgical state...and maybe it wouldn't have. I do think the massage they give you will feel nice if your back is hurting...but you might do just as well with a good masseuse or physical therapist. Thats just my opinion as a patient. If you do decide to go ahead and see a chiro I would bring your most recent set of xrays with you so they can be examined and remind the chiro what will move in your spine...and what will not. Sorry for the long post! Take Care, Cam Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 30, 2008 Report Share Posted January 30, 2008 Debbie, I am only fused T4 – L2 so, perhaps, have much more flexibility than you do. Nevertheless, you should be able to do modified yoga and pilates to develop your core muscles. I cannot do many of the poses and exercises that others can do (in fact as my back worsens, I can do less and less), but the ones I can do have helped me immensely, and apparently my orthopedic surgeon agrees as he told me to keep it up. I recently bought the book, Pilates for Fragile Backs by Andra Stanton as it was mentioned on this forum. I find many of these exercises are similar to those that I do in my yoga regimen (without the use of the reformer). I think you could do most of the exercises in that book. In any case, it has wonderful information. As my back gets worse (I have not had revision surgery yet), I have had to further modify certain yoga poses but I feel better when I do them at least 3 or more times/week. I currently only have mild flatback but my spine from L2 to sacrum has gone from straight to 45 degrees and my pelvis is tilted. It’s important for all of us to remember never to do anything that causes us pain, to start easy, and go gradual. The breathing and centering has been wonderful for me. By doing these exercises I am only prolonging the inevitable (surgery) but that is OK by me. I had Harrington Rod surgery at 20 and am now 55. Hoping to last another 1-2 years! Good luck to you and my apologies if I sound evangelistic about this. J We all must find our own path to health; this has worked best for me because right now, walking hurts. From: [mailto: ] On Behalf Of smithdryden1 Sent: Wednesday, January 30, 2008 9:21 AM Subject: [ ] Re: Hello.... I'm AJ Hello , I am new to this group and am wondering if you would elaborate on your experiences with pilates and yoga. I am fused the entire spine with the exception of the lower 4 vertebrae and have flat back syndrome that is progressing. Thanks, Debbie -- In , " " <ctracy@...> wrote: > > A.J. > > Again, Welcome! I wholeheartedly concur with Cam but would like > to add that I feel a couple of other modalities may make you more > comfortable and relieve pain more long term than chiropractics. Those are > things like Yoga and Pilates, as well as Rolfing or structural integration. > Structural integration (Rolfing) helps to stretch and lengthen tightened > ligaments/muscles/fascia that have tightened due to your scoliosis. Yoga and > Pilates lengthen and strengthen your muscles, developing your critical core > muscles. With or without a future of additional surgery, it is in your best > interest to get in your best physical shape ever. > > Keep us posted as you travel on your journey. > > > > > > _____ > > From: > [mailto: ] On Behalf Of cammaltby > Sent: Wednesday, January 30, 2008 3:05 AM > > Subject: [ ] Re: Hello.... I'm AJ > > > > Hi AJ, > > Welcome to the group. I am sorry you are experiencing problems with > your back right now. Many folks find that as time goes on the discs > below their fusion take a lot more of the " load " and it is not too > uncommon for people to develop degenerative disc disease at a fairly > young age. Others, unfortunately, end up with full blown flatback > fairly quickly after their surgery due to poor surgical technique or > positioning during that surgery. No one here is a doctor so you > should take all that with a grain of salt! > > Still, before I went the chiropracter route I would strongly > recommend you get yourself into the very best spine doctor you can > who has experience and specializes in adult scolisosis, deformity > and/or aging spine. The Scoliosis Research Society, based here in the > US, has a physician locator on their site (www.srs.org) to assist > folks in locating surgeons who have a particular interest in our > kinds of problems. In order to join this society at least 20% of > their practice is supposed to be devoted to scoliosis. Many of the > doctors also have specialized even further. I pulled down the current > listings for Singapore and got these 4 listings: > > Pesi B. Chacha, MD > Mount Medical Centre > 65 68363585 > Chacha Ortho, Spine & Hand Surgery PTE L > 3 Mount #03-01/02 > Singapore 228510 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, > Juvenile/Infantile > > Jimmy S. Daruwalla, MD > Daruwalla Orthopaedic, Spine & Hand Surgery > 65 68369290 > 3 Mt #03-01 > Mount Medical Center > Singapore 228510 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, > Juvenile/Infantile > > Chong-Tien Tan, MD > Island Spine and Scoliosis > 65-6737-5683 > #06-03 Mt. Medical Centre > 3 Mt. > Singapore 228510 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, > Juvenile/Infantile > > Hee-Kit Wong, MD > Department of Orthopaedic Surgery > 65 67795555 / 4342 > National University Hospital > Lower Kent Ridge Rd > Singapore 119074 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions > > I am in no way recommending any one of them, just trying to point you > to a good starting place for further research. > > For most of us who have developed flatback, chiropractic care would > not be anything more than paliative treatment. Flatback is a > structural problem. The chance that a chiropracter could make things > worse for you exists as your spine does not have the mobility of an > an ufused spine does. Honestly, I have read that chiropracters claim > they can cure scoliosis, but my personal opinion (and others!)is that > is " bunk " . I haven't read or seen any research that indicates that it > can do much more than keep a young patient comfortable while the > spine is growing. How much curve will exist once growth is complete > is a a mystery to most doctors...so a chiro claiming that they have > stopped the progression is kind of like someone claiming they saved a > tree from a lightning strike...maybe the curve would have progressed > to a serious/surgical state...and maybe it wouldn't have. I do think > the massage they give you will feel nice if your back is > hurting...but you might do just as well with a good masseuse or > physical therapist. > > Thats just my opinion as a patient. If you do decide to go ahead and > see a chiro I would bring your most recent set of xrays with you so > they can be examined and remind the chiro what will move in your > spine...and what will not. > > Sorry for the long post! > > Take Care, Cam > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 30, 2008 Report Share Posted January 30, 2008 Hi , Thanks for the information. I actually went to physical therapy for 2+ years and made great progress, but am always looking for more. Anything to avoid the next surgery! I had the Harrington Rod put in when I was 13, I am now 54. We are monitoring the progression of the flat back yearly, I was told last year that if it continues, we will need to do the revision. Since I have so much fusion, the revision would limit my mobility greatly, so, I will avoid doing it if possible. The good news is since I have done PT, I am not in nearly as much pain. Before, it was excruciating, now doable. I highly recommend a good PT to anyone in our situation. I will check into the Pilates. Thanks for the information!! Debbie Debbie, I am only fused T4 - L2 so, perhaps, have much more flexibility than you do. Nevertheless, you should be able to do modified yoga and Pilates to develop your core muscles. I cannot do many of the poses and exercises that others can do (in fact as my back worsens, I can do less and less), but the ones I can do have helped me immensely, and apparently my orthopedic surgeon agrees as he told me to keep it up. I recently bought the book, Pilates for Fragile Backs by Andra Stanton as it was mentioned on this forum. I find many of these exercises are similar to those that I do in my yoga regimen (without the use of the reformer). I think you could do most of the exercises in that book. In any case, it has wonderful information. As my back gets worse (I have not had revision surgery yet), I have had to further modify certain yoga poses but I feel better when I do them at least 3 or more times/week. I currently only have mild flatback but my spine from L2 to sacrum has gone from straight to 45 degrees and my pelvis is tilted. It's important for all of us to remember never to do anything that causes us pain, to start easy, and go gradual. The breathing and centering has been wonderful for me. By doing these exercises I am only prolonging the inevitable (surgery) but that is OK by me. I had Harrington Rod surgery at 20 and am now 55. Hoping to last another 1-2 years! Good luck to you and my apologies if I sound evangelistic about this. :-) We all must find our own path to health; this has worked best for me because right now, walking hurts. ________________________________ From: [mailto: ] On Behalf Of smithdryden1 Sent: Wednesday, January 30, 2008 9:21 AM Subject: [ ] Re: Hello.... I'm AJ Hello , I am new to this group and am wondering if you would elaborate on your experiences with pilates and yoga. I am fused the entire spine with the exception of the lower 4 vertebrae and have flat back syndrome that is progressing. Thanks, Debbie -- In <mailto: %40> , " " <ctracy@...> wrote: > > A.J. > > Again, Welcome! I wholeheartedly concur with Cam but would like > to add that I feel a couple of other modalities may make you more > comfortable and relieve pain more long term than chiropractics. Those are > things like Yoga and Pilates, as well as Rolfing or structural integration. > Structural integration (Rolfing) helps to stretch and lengthen tightened > ligaments/muscles/fascia that have tightened due to your scoliosis. Yoga and > Pilates lengthen and strengthen your muscles, developing your critical core > muscles. With or without a future of additional surgery, it is in your best > interest to get in your best physical shape ever. > > Keep us posted as you travel on your journey. > > > > > > _____ > > From: <mailto: %40> > [mailto: <mailto: %40> ] On Behalf Of cammaltby > Sent: Wednesday, January 30, 2008 3:05 AM > <mailto: %40> > Subject: [ ] Re: Hello.... I'm AJ > > > > Hi AJ, > > Welcome to the group. I am sorry you are experiencing problems with > your back right now. Many folks find that as time goes on the discs > below their fusion take a lot more of the " load " and it is not too > uncommon for people to develop degenerative disc disease at a fairly > young age. Others, unfortunately, end up with full blown flatback > fairly quickly after their surgery due to poor surgical technique or > positioning during that surgery. No one here is a doctor so you > should take all that with a grain of salt! > > Still, before I went the chiropracter route I would strongly > recommend you get yourself into the very best spine doctor you can > who has experience and specializes in adult scolisosis, deformity > and/or aging spine. The Scoliosis Research Society, based here in the > US, has a physician locator on their site (www.srs.org) to assist > folks in locating surgeons who have a particular interest in our > kinds of problems. In order to join this society at least 20% of > their practice is supposed to be devoted to scoliosis. Many of the > doctors also have specialized even further. I pulled down the current > listings for Singapore and got these 4 listings: > > Pesi B. Chacha, MD > Mount Medical Centre > 65 68363585 > Chacha Ortho, Spine & Hand Surgery PTE L > 3 Mount #03-01/02 > Singapore 228510 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, > Juvenile/Infantile > > Jimmy S. Daruwalla, MD > Daruwalla Orthopaedic, Spine & Hand Surgery > 65 68369290 > 3 Mt #03-01 > Mount Medical Center > Singapore 228510 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, > Juvenile/Infantile > > Chong-Tien Tan, MD > Island Spine and Scoliosis > 65-6737-5683 > #06-03 Mt. Medical Centre > 3 Mt. > Singapore 228510 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, > Juvenile/Infantile > > Hee-Kit Wong, MD > Department of Orthopaedic Surgery > 65 67795555 / 4342 > National University Hospital > Lower Kent Ridge Rd > Singapore 119074 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions > > I am in no way recommending any one of them, just trying to point you > to a good starting place for further research. > > For most of us who have developed flatback, chiropractic care would > not be anything more than paliative treatment. Flatback is a > structural problem. The chance that a chiropracter could make things > worse for you exists as your spine does not have the mobility of an > an ufused spine does. Honestly, I have read that chiropracters claim > they can cure scoliosis, but my personal opinion (and others!)is that > is " bunk " . I haven't read or seen any research that indicates that it > can do much more than keep a young patient comfortable while the > spine is growing. How much curve will exist once growth is complete > is a a mystery to most doctors...so a chiro claiming that they have > stopped the progression is kind of like someone claiming they saved a > tree from a lightning strike...maybe the curve would have progressed > to a serious/surgical state...and maybe it wouldn't have. I do think > the massage they give you will feel nice if your back is > hurting...but you might do just as well with a good masseuse or > physical therapist. > > Thats just my opinion as a patient. If you do decide to go ahead and > see a chiro I would bring your most recent set of xrays with you so > they can be examined and remind the chiro what will move in your > spine...and what will not. > > Sorry for the long post! > > Take Care, Cam > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 30, 2008 Report Share Posted January 30, 2008 Debbie, Believe it or not, I went over 30 years without seeing an orthopedic surgeon. I guess it was dumb luck that led me to my own form of PT - yoga and pilates. I live in a rural area- far away from a qualified PT. Would love to know what exercises your PT has you doing. ?? [ ] Re: Hello.... I'm AJ > > > > Hi AJ, > > Welcome to the group. I am sorry you are experiencing problems with > your back right now. Many folks find that as time goes on the discs > below their fusion take a lot more of the " load " and it is not too > uncommon for people to develop degenerative disc disease at a fairly > young age. Others, unfortunately, end up with full blown flatback > fairly quickly after their surgery due to poor surgical technique or > positioning during that surgery. No one here is a doctor so you > should take all that with a grain of salt! > > Still, before I went the chiropracter route I would strongly > recommend you get yourself into the very best spine doctor you can > who has experience and specializes in adult scolisosis, deformity > and/or aging spine. The Scoliosis Research Society, based here in the > US, has a physician locator on their site (www.srs.org) to assist > folks in locating surgeons who have a particular interest in our > kinds of problems. In order to join this society at least 20% of > their practice is supposed to be devoted to scoliosis. Many of the > doctors also have specialized even further. I pulled down the current > listings for Singapore and got these 4 listings: > > Pesi B. Chacha, MD > Mount Medical Centre > 65 68363585 > Chacha Ortho, Spine & Hand Surgery PTE L > 3 Mount #03-01/02 > Singapore 228510 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, > Juvenile/Infantile > > Jimmy S. Daruwalla, MD > Daruwalla Orthopaedic, Spine & Hand Surgery > 65 68369290 > 3 Mt #03-01 > Mount Medical Center > Singapore 228510 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, > Juvenile/Infantile > > Chong-Tien Tan, MD > Island Spine and Scoliosis > 65-6737-5683 > #06-03 Mt. Medical Centre > 3 Mt. > Singapore 228510 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, > Juvenile/Infantile > > Hee-Kit Wong, MD > Department of Orthopaedic Surgery > 65 67795555 / 4342 > National University Hospital > Lower Kent Ridge Rd > Singapore 119074 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions > > I am in no way recommending any one of them, just trying to point you > to a good starting place for further research. > > For most of us who have developed flatback, chiropractic care would > not be anything more than paliative treatment. Flatback is a > structural problem. The chance that a chiropracter could make things > worse for you exists as your spine does not have the mobility of an > an ufused spine does. Honestly, I have read that chiropracters claim > they can cure scoliosis, but my personal opinion (and others!)is that > is " bunk " . I haven't read or seen any research that indicates that it > can do much more than keep a young patient comfortable while the > spine is growing. How much curve will exist once growth is complete > is a a mystery to most doctors...so a chiro claiming that they have > stopped the progression is kind of like someone claiming they saved a > tree from a lightning strike...maybe the curve would have progressed > to a serious/surgical state...and maybe it wouldn't have. I do think > the massage they give you will feel nice if your back is > hurting...but you might do just as well with a good masseuse or > physical therapist. > > Thats just my opinion as a patient. If you do decide to go ahead and > see a chiro I would bring your most recent set of xrays with you so > they can be examined and remind the chiro what will move in your > spine...and what will not. > > Sorry for the long post! > > Take Care, Cam > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 30, 2008 Report Share Posted January 30, 2008 I walk on a treadmill 30 min, do 15-20 min on an elliptical (my best exercise). I have also done arm pulls, exercise bicycle and laying on my side do a range of motion with my hips. This one exercise (hip) is the most beneficial as my one hip causes the most pain. When I started PT, I was in so much pain, I could not even walk 5 min on the treadmill at a snail's pace. I cannot say enough good things about PT, manage the pain and get stronger! It works! Debbie Debbie, Believe it or not, I went over 30 years without seeing an orthopedic surgeon. I guess it was dumb luck that led me to my own form of PT - yoga and palates. I live in a rural area- far away from a qualified PT. Would love to know what exercises your PT has you doing. ?? [ ] Re: Hello.... I'm AJ > > > > Hi AJ, > > Welcome to the group. I am sorry you are experiencing problems with > your back right now. Many folks find that as time goes on the discs > below their fusion take a lot more of the " load " and it is not too > uncommon for people to develop degenerative disc disease at a fairly > young age. Others, unfortunately, end up with full blown flatback > fairly quickly after their surgery due to poor surgical technique or > positioning during that surgery. No one here is a doctor so you > should take all that with a grain of salt! > > Still, before I went the chiropracter route I would strongly > recommend you get yourself into the very best spine doctor you can > who has experience and specializes in adult scolisosis, deformity > and/or aging spine. The Scoliosis Research Society, based here in the > US, has a physician locator on their site (www.srs.org) to assist > folks in locating surgeons who have a particular interest in our > kinds of problems. In order to join this society at least 20% of > their practice is supposed to be devoted to scoliosis. Many of the > doctors also have specialized even further. I pulled down the current > listings for Singapore and got these 4 listings: > > Pesi B. Chacha, MD > Mount Medical Centre > 65 68363585 > Chacha Ortho, Spine & Hand Surgery PTE L > 3 Mount #03-01/02 > Singapore 228510 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, > Juvenile/Infantile > > Jimmy S. Daruwalla, MD > Daruwalla Orthopaedic, Spine & Hand Surgery > 65 68369290 > 3 Mt #03-01 > Mount Medical Center > Singapore 228510 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, > Juvenile/Infantile > > Chong-Tien Tan, MD > Island Spine and Scoliosis > 65-6737-5683 > #06-03 Mt. Medical Centre > 3 Mt. > Singapore 228510 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, > Juvenile/Infantile > > Hee-Kit Wong, MD > Department of Orthopaedic Surgery > 65 67795555 / 4342 > National University Hospital > Lower Kent Ridge Rd > Singapore 119074 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions > > I am in no way recommending any one of them, just trying to point you > to a good starting place for further research. > > For most of us who have developed flatback, chiropractic care would > not be anything more than paliative treatment. Flatback is a > structural problem. The chance that a chiropracter could make things > worse for you exists as your spine does not have the mobility of an > an ufused spine does. Honestly, I have read that chiropracters claim > they can cure scoliosis, but my personal opinion (and others!)is that > is " bunk " . I haven't read or seen any research that indicates that it > can do much more than keep a young patient comfortable while the > spine is growing. How much curve will exist once growth is complete > is a a mystery to most doctors...so a chiro claiming that they have > stopped the progression is kind of like someone claiming they saved a > tree from a lightning strike...maybe the curve would have progressed > to a serious/surgical state...and maybe it wouldn't have. I do think > the massage they give you will feel nice if your back is > hurting...but you might do just as well with a good masseuse or > physical therapist. > > Thats just my opinion as a patient. If you do decide to go ahead and > see a chiro I would bring your most recent set of xrays with you so > they can be examined and remind the chiro what will move in your > spine...and what will not. > > Sorry for the long post! > > Take Care, Cam > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 30, 2008 Report Share Posted January 30, 2008 Do you do this every day or every other day or ????? Walking on the treadmill hurts me but I can do the elliptical for 45 minutes at a time (even if it is boring). I am very irregular with the elliptical though (Shame on me!). What frequency do they recommend? [ ] Re: Hello.... I'm AJ > > > > Hi AJ, > > Welcome to the group. I am sorry you are experiencing problems with > your back right now. Many folks find that as time goes on the discs > below their fusion take a lot more of the " load " and it is not too > uncommon for people to develop degenerative disc disease at a fairly > young age. Others, unfortunately, end up with full blown flatback > fairly quickly after their surgery due to poor surgical technique or > positioning during that surgery. No one here is a doctor so you > should take all that with a grain of salt! > > Still, before I went the chiropracter route I would strongly > recommend you get yourself into the very best spine doctor you can > who has experience and specializes in adult scolisosis, deformity > and/or aging spine. The Scoliosis Research Society, based here in the > US, has a physician locator on their site (www.srs.org) to assist > folks in locating surgeons who have a particular interest in our > kinds of problems. In order to join this society at least 20% of > their practice is supposed to be devoted to scoliosis. Many of the > doctors also have specialized even further. I pulled down the current > listings for Singapore and got these 4 listings: > > Pesi B. Chacha, MD > Mount Medical Centre > 65 68363585 > Chacha Ortho, Spine & Hand Surgery PTE L > 3 Mount #03-01/02 > Singapore 228510 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, > Juvenile/Infantile > > Jimmy S. Daruwalla, MD > Daruwalla Orthopaedic, Spine & Hand Surgery > 65 68369290 > 3 Mt #03-01 > Mount Medical Center > Singapore 228510 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, > Juvenile/Infantile > > Chong-Tien Tan, MD > Island Spine and Scoliosis > 65-6737-5683 > #06-03 Mt. Medical Centre > 3 Mt. > Singapore 228510 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, > Juvenile/Infantile > > Hee-Kit Wong, MD > Department of Orthopaedic Surgery > 65 67795555 / 4342 > National University Hospital > Lower Kent Ridge Rd > Singapore 119074 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions > > I am in no way recommending any one of them, just trying to point you > to a good starting place for further research. > > For most of us who have developed flatback, chiropractic care would > not be anything more than paliative treatment. Flatback is a > structural problem. The chance that a chiropracter could make things > worse for you exists as your spine does not have the mobility of an > an ufused spine does. Honestly, I have read that chiropracters claim > they can cure scoliosis, but my personal opinion (and others!)is that > is " bunk " . I haven't read or seen any research that indicates that it > can do much more than keep a young patient comfortable while the > spine is growing. How much curve will exist once growth is complete > is a a mystery to most doctors...so a chiro claiming that they have > stopped the progression is kind of like someone claiming they saved a > tree from a lightning strike...maybe the curve would have progressed > to a serious/surgical state...and maybe it wouldn't have. I do think > the massage they give you will feel nice if your back is > hurting...but you might do just as well with a good masseuse or > physical therapist. > > Thats just my opinion as a patient. If you do decide to go ahead and > see a chiro I would bring your most recent set of xrays with you so > they can be examined and remind the chiro what will move in your > spine...and what will not. > > Sorry for the long post! > > Take Care, Cam > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 30, 2008 Report Share Posted January 30, 2008 Good question! I was doing it 4 times per week, working out for about 90 minutes each time. That sounds like a lot, but it was slow going. My treadmill has the rails on it, and I really rely on those for support and to take pressure off my back while walking. It is kind of like the shopping cart in the store! Anyway, I broke a small bone in my foot in May, and had to stop all the exercise, then I took care of my Mom who broke her hip and kept reinjuring my foot doing so. She passed away 3 months ago, and I am just now starting the exercise again. My foot has hurt constantly, but I am told it is about well. Too much stress on it, moving my Mom, probably too much on my back also. I bend more than 8 inches forward and almost 2 to one side, but really not hurting much, not like I was before the PT. I also own my own company, although I worked very little the past 6 months (thank goodness for a great assistant). Anyway, I realize the sitting at the desk is not a good thing for my back. I was actually in less pain taking care of my Mom than sitting all day. Who would have thought! Debra Dryden, L.L.C. ASI 329115 405.330.5000 405.330.5623 Fax dsmith@... www.smithdryden.com <https://alpha.smithdryden.com/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www.smithdryden.\ com/> ________________________________ From: on behalf of Sent: Wed 1/30/2008 9:30 PM Subject: RE: [ ] Re: Hello.... I'm AJ Do you do this every day or every other day or ????? Walking on the treadmill hurts me but I can do the elliptical for 45 minutes at a time (even if it is boring). I am very irregular with the elliptical though (Shame on me!). What frequency do they recommend? [ ] Re: Hello.... I'm AJ > > > > Hi AJ, > > Welcome to the group. I am sorry you are experiencing problems with > your back right now. Many folks find that as time goes on the discs > below their fusion take a lot more of the " load " and it is not too > uncommon for people to develop degenerative disc disease at a fairly > young age. Others, unfortunately, end up with full blown flatback > fairly quickly after their surgery due to poor surgical technique or > positioning during that surgery. No one here is a doctor so you > should take all that with a grain of salt! > > Still, before I went the chiropracter route I would strongly > recommend you get yourself into the very best spine doctor you can > who has experience and specializes in adult scolisosis, deformity > and/or aging spine. The Scoliosis Research Society, based here in the > US, has a physician locator on their site (www.srs.org) to assist > folks in locating surgeons who have a particular interest in our > kinds of problems. In order to join this society at least 20% of > their practice is supposed to be devoted to scoliosis. Many of the > doctors also have specialized even further. I pulled down the current > listings for Singapore and got these 4 listings: > > Pesi B. Chacha, MD > Mount Medical Centre > 65 68363585 > Chacha Ortho, Spine & Hand Surgery PTE L > 3 Mount #03-01/02 > Singapore 228510 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, > Juvenile/Infantile > > Jimmy S. Daruwalla, MD > Daruwalla Orthopaedic, Spine & Hand Surgery > 65 68369290 > 3 Mt #03-01 > Mount Medical Center > Singapore 228510 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, > Juvenile/Infantile > > Chong-Tien Tan, MD > Island Spine and Scoliosis > 65-6737-5683 > #06-03 Mt. Medical Centre > 3 Mt. > Singapore 228510 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, > Juvenile/Infantile > > Hee-Kit Wong, MD > Department of Orthopaedic Surgery > 65 67795555 / 4342 > National University Hospital > Lower Kent Ridge Rd > Singapore 119074 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions > > I am in no way recommending any one of them, just trying to point you > to a good starting place for further research. > > For most of us who have developed flatback, chiropractic care would > not be anything more than paliative treatment. Flatback is a > structural problem. The chance that a chiropracter could make things > worse for you exists as your spine does not have the mobility of an > an ufused spine does. Honestly, I have read that chiropracters claim > they can cure scoliosis, but my personal opinion (and others!)is that > is " bunk " . I haven't read or seen any research that indicates that it > can do much more than keep a young patient comfortable while the > spine is growing. How much curve will exist once growth is complete > is a a mystery to most doctors...so a chiro claiming that they have > stopped the progression is kind of like someone claiming they saved a > tree from a lightning strike...maybe the curve would have progressed > to a serious/surgical state...and maybe it wouldn't have. I do think > the massage they give you will feel nice if your back is > hurting...but you might do just as well with a good masseuse or > physical therapist. > > Thats just my opinion as a patient. If you do decide to go ahead and > see a chiro I would bring your most recent set of xrays with you so > they can be examined and remind the chiro what will move in your > spine...and what will not. > > Sorry for the long post! > > Take Care, Cam > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 30, 2008 Report Share Posted January 30, 2008 Wow! I'm impressed with how much you can do given your progression. Question: Do you have children and if so, did you notice your back got markedly worse after you had them? I think that is what started my downhill trend as I had no problems before then. [ ] Re: Hello.... I'm AJ > > > > Hi AJ, > > Welcome to the group. I am sorry you are experiencing problems with > your back right now. Many folks find that as time goes on the discs > below their fusion take a lot more of the " load " and it is not too > uncommon for people to develop degenerative disc disease at a fairly > young age. Others, unfortunately, end up with full blown flatback > fairly quickly after their surgery due to poor surgical technique or > positioning during that surgery. No one here is a doctor so you > should take all that with a grain of salt! > > Still, before I went the chiropracter route I would strongly > recommend you get yourself into the very best spine doctor you can > who has experience and specializes in adult scolisosis, deformity > and/or aging spine. The Scoliosis Research Society, based here in the > US, has a physician locator on their site (www.srs.org) to assist > folks in locating surgeons who have a particular interest in our > kinds of problems. In order to join this society at least 20% of > their practice is supposed to be devoted to scoliosis. Many of the > doctors also have specialized even further. I pulled down the current > listings for Singapore and got these 4 listings: > > Pesi B. Chacha, MD > Mount Medical Centre > 65 68363585 > Chacha Ortho, Spine & Hand Surgery PTE L > 3 Mount #03-01/02 > Singapore 228510 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, > Juvenile/Infantile > > Jimmy S. Daruwalla, MD > Daruwalla Orthopaedic, Spine & Hand Surgery > 65 68369290 > 3 Mt #03-01 > Mount Medical Center > Singapore 228510 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, > Juvenile/Infantile > > Chong-Tien Tan, MD > Island Spine and Scoliosis > 65-6737-5683 > #06-03 Mt. Medical Centre > 3 Mt. > Singapore 228510 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, > Juvenile/Infantile > > Hee-Kit Wong, MD > Department of Orthopaedic Surgery > 65 67795555 / 4342 > National University Hospital > Lower Kent Ridge Rd > Singapore 119074 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions > > I am in no way recommending any one of them, just trying to point you > to a good starting place for further research. > > For most of us who have developed flatback, chiropractic care would > not be anything more than paliative treatment. Flatback is a > structural problem. The chance that a chiropracter could make things > worse for you exists as your spine does not have the mobility of an > an ufused spine does. Honestly, I have read that chiropracters claim > they can cure scoliosis, but my personal opinion (and others!)is that > is " bunk " . I haven't read or seen any research that indicates that it > can do much more than keep a young patient comfortable while the > spine is growing. How much curve will exist once growth is complete > is a a mystery to most doctors...so a chiro claiming that they have > stopped the progression is kind of like someone claiming they saved a > tree from a lightning strike...maybe the curve would have progressed > to a serious/surgical state...and maybe it wouldn't have. I do think > the massage they give you will feel nice if your back is > hurting...but you might do just as well with a good masseuse or > physical therapist. > > Thats just my opinion as a patient. If you do decide to go ahead and > see a chiro I would bring your most recent set of xrays with you so > they can be examined and remind the chiro what will move in your > spine...and what will not. > > Sorry for the long post! > > Take Care, Cam > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 30, 2008 Report Share Posted January 30, 2008 I do have two grown sons, I never had any concerns until my early 30's when I did a home craft business. I was bending forward several long hours per day and this was the start of the pain. It has progressed greatly in the last 5 years. ________________________________ From: on behalf of Sent: Wed 1/30/2008 10:02 PM Subject: RE: [ ] Re: Hello.... I'm AJ Wow! I'm impressed with how much you can do given your progression. Question: Do you have children and if so, did you notice your back got markedly worse after you had them? I think that is what started my downhill trend as I had no problems before then. [ ] Re: Hello.... I'm AJ > > > > Hi AJ, > > Welcome to the group. I am sorry you are experiencing problems with > your back right now. Many folks find that as time goes on the discs > below their fusion take a lot more of the " load " and it is not too > uncommon for people to develop degenerative disc disease at a fairly > young age. Others, unfortunately, end up with full blown flatback > fairly quickly after their surgery due to poor surgical technique or > positioning during that surgery. No one here is a doctor so you > should take all that with a grain of salt! > > Still, before I went the chiropracter route I would strongly > recommend you get yourself into the very best spine doctor you can > who has experience and specializes in adult scolisosis, deformity > and/or aging spine. The Scoliosis Research Society, based here in the > US, has a physician locator on their site (www.srs.org) to assist > folks in locating surgeons who have a particular interest in our > kinds of problems. In order to join this society at least 20% of > their practice is supposed to be devoted to scoliosis. Many of the > doctors also have specialized even further. I pulled down the current > listings for Singapore and got these 4 listings: > > Pesi B. Chacha, MD > Mount Medical Centre > 65 68363585 > Chacha Ortho, Spine & Hand Surgery PTE L > 3 Mount #03-01/02 > Singapore 228510 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, > Juvenile/Infantile > > Jimmy S. Daruwalla, MD > Daruwalla Orthopaedic, Spine & Hand Surgery > 65 68369290 > 3 Mt #03-01 > Mount Medical Center > Singapore 228510 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, > Juvenile/Infantile > > Chong-Tien Tan, MD > Island Spine and Scoliosis > 65-6737-5683 > #06-03 Mt. Medical Centre > 3 Mt. > Singapore 228510 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, > Juvenile/Infantile > > Hee-Kit Wong, MD > Department of Orthopaedic Surgery > 65 67795555 / 4342 > National University Hospital > Lower Kent Ridge Rd > Singapore 119074 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions > > I am in no way recommending any one of them, just trying to point you > to a good starting place for further research. > > For most of us who have developed flatback, chiropractic care would > not be anything more than paliative treatment. Flatback is a > structural problem. The chance that a chiropracter could make things > worse for you exists as your spine does not have the mobility of an > an ufused spine does. Honestly, I have read that chiropracters claim > they can cure scoliosis, but my personal opinion (and others!)is that > is " bunk " . I haven't read or seen any research that indicates that it > can do much more than keep a young patient comfortable while the > spine is growing. How much curve will exist once growth is complete > is a a mystery to most doctors...so a chiro claiming that they have > stopped the progression is kind of like someone claiming they saved a > tree from a lightning strike...maybe the curve would have progressed > to a serious/surgical state...and maybe it wouldn't have. I do think > the massage they give you will feel nice if your back is > hurting...but you might do just as well with a good masseuse or > physical therapist. > > Thats just my opinion as a patient. If you do decide to go ahead and > see a chiro I would bring your most recent set of xrays with you so > they can be examined and remind the chiro what will move in your > spine...and what will not. > > Sorry for the long post! > > Take Care, Cam > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 31, 2008 Report Share Posted January 31, 2008 I don't want to sound stupid, but what is the "elliptical". Can you tell I don't do much exercising. I use a foot pedal sitting down for my legs and do arm exercising. Can't manage anything else right now. Pat E. [ ] Re: Hello.... I'm AJ> > > > Hi AJ,> > Welcome to the group. I am sorry you are experiencing problems with > your back right now. Many folks find that as time goes on the discs > below their fusion take a lot more of the "load" and it is not too > uncommon for people to develop degenerative disc disease at a fairly > young age. Others, unfortunately, end up with full blown flatback > fairly quickly after their surgery due to poor surgical technique or > positioning during that surgery. No one here is a doctor so you > should take all that with a grain of salt!> > Still, before I went the chiropracter route I would strongly > recommend you get yourself into the very best spine doctor you can > who has experience and specializes in adult scolisosis, deformity > and/or aging spine. The Scoliosis Research Society, based here in the > US, has a physician locator on their site (www.srs.org) to assist > folks in locating surgeons who have a particular interest in our > kinds of problems. In order to join this society at least 20% of > their practice is supposed to be devoted to scoliosis. Many of the > doctors also have specialized even further. I pulled down the current > listings for Singapore and got these 4 listings:> > Pesi B. Chacha, MD> Mount Medical Centre> 65 68363585> Chacha Ortho, Spine & Hand Surgery PTE L> 3 Mount #03-01/02> Singapore 228510> Singapore> Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, > Juvenile/Infantile> > Jimmy S. Daruwalla, MD> Daruwalla Orthopaedic, Spine & Hand Surgery> 65 68369290> 3 Mt #03-01> Mount Medical Center> Singapore 228510> Singapore> Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, > Juvenile/Infantile> > Chong-Tien Tan, MD> Island Spine and Scoliosis> 65-6737-5683> #06-03 Mt. Medical Centre> 3 Mt. > Singapore 228510> Singapore> Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, > Juvenile/Infantile> > Hee-Kit Wong, MD> Department of Orthopaedic Surgery> 65 67795555 / 4342> National University Hospital> Lower Kent Ridge Rd> Singapore 119074> Singapore> Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions> > I am in no way recommending any one of them, just trying to point you > to a good starting place for further research.> > For most of us who have developed flatback, chiropractic care would > not be anything more than paliative treatment. Flatback is a > structural problem. The chance that a chiropracter could make things > worse for you exists as your spine does not have the mobility of an > an ufused spine does. Honestly, I have read that chiropracters claim > they can cure scoliosis, but my personal opinion (and others!)is that > is "bunk". I haven't read or seen any research that indicates that it > can do much more than keep a young patient comfortable while the > spine is growing. How much curve will exist once growth is complete > is a a mystery to most doctors...so a chiro claiming that they have > stopped the progression is kind of like someone claiming they saved a > tree from a lightning strike...maybe the curve would have progressed > to a serious/surgical state...and maybe it wouldn't have. I do think > the massage they give you will feel nice if your back is > hurting...but you might do just as well with a good masseuse or > physical therapist.> > Thats just my opinion as a patient. If you do decide to go ahead and > see a chiro I would bring your most recent set of xrays with you so > they can be examined and remind the chiro what will move in your > spine...and what will not.> > Sorry for the long post!> > Take Care, Cam> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 31, 2008 Report Share Posted January 31, 2008 Pat – You don’t sound stupid; I sure hope my explanation isn’t. I think of the elliptical as a combo stair stepper/bicycle. You stand on separate pedals and walk your legs in an elliptical manner as opposed to up and down or in circles. Your feet stay on the pedals the entire time. Some have handlebars that move back and forth like you are cross country skiing. Others have stationary handlebars. The first time I tried it I was only able to do 2 minutes. I have worked myself up to 45-50 minutes but if I take a long hiatus, I start back slowly. I like it because it doesn’t hurt my back or legs but it is quite a work out! - From: [mailto: ] On Behalf Of PatEly@... Sent: Thursday, January 31, 2008 2:10 PM Subject: Re: [ ] Re: Hello.... I'm AJ I don't want to sound stupid, but what is the " elliptical " . Can you tell I don't do much exercising. I use a foot pedal sitting down for my legs and do arm exercising. Can't manage anything else right now. Pat E. [ ] Re: Hello.... I'm AJ > > > > Hi AJ, > > Welcome to the group. I am sorry you are experiencing problems with > your back right now. Many folks find that as time goes on the discs > below their fusion take a lot more of the " load " and it is not too > uncommon for people to develop degenerative disc disease at a fairly > young age. Others, unfortunately, end up with full blown flatback > fairly quickly after their surgery due to poor surgical technique or > positioning during that surgery. No one here is a doctor so you > should take all that with a grain of salt! > > Still, before I went the chiropracter route I would strongly > recommend you get yourself into the very best spine doctor you can > who has experience and specializes in adult scolisosis, deformity > and/or aging spine. The Scoliosis Research Society, based here in the > US, has a physician locator on their site (www.srs.org) to assist > folks in locating surgeons who have a particular interest in our > kinds of problems. In order to join this society at least 20% of > their practice is supposed to be devoted to scoliosis. Many of the > doctors also have specialized even further. I pulled down the current > listings for Singapore and got these 4 listings: > > Pesi B. Chacha, MD > Mount Medical Centre > 65 68363585 > Chacha Ortho, Spine & Hand Surgery PTE L > 3 Mount #03-01/02 > Singapore 228510 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, > Juvenile/Infantile > > Jimmy S. Daruwalla, MD > Daruwalla Orthopaedic, Spine & Hand Surgery > 65 68369290 > 3 Mt #03-01 > Mount Medical Center > Singapore 228510 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, > Juvenile/Infantile > > Chong-Tien Tan, MD > Island Spine and Scoliosis > 65-6737-5683 > #06-03 Mt. Medical Centre > 3 Mt. > Singapore 228510 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions, > Juvenile/Infantile > > Hee-Kit Wong, MD > Department of Orthopaedic Surgery > 65 67795555 / 4342 > National University Hospital > Lower Kent Ridge Rd > Singapore 119074 > Singapore > Adolescent, Adult Scoliosis, Aging Spine, Degenerative Conditions > > I am in no way recommending any one of them, just trying to point you > to a good starting place for further research. > > For most of us who have developed flatback, chiropractic care would > not be anything more than paliative treatment. Flatback is a > structural problem. The chance that a chiropracter could make things > worse for you exists as your spine does not have the mobility of an > an ufused spine does. Honestly, I have read that chiropracters claim > they can cure scoliosis, but my personal opinion (and others!)is that > is " bunk " . I haven't read or seen any research that indicates that it > can do much more than keep a young patient comfortable while the > spine is growing. How much curve will exist once growth is complete > is a a mystery to most doctors...so a chiro claiming that they have > stopped the progression is kind of like someone claiming they saved a > tree from a lightning strike...maybe the curve would have progressed > to a serious/surgical state...and maybe it wouldn't have. I do think > the massage they give you will feel nice if your back is > hurting...but you might do just as well with a good masseuse or > physical therapist. > > Thats just my opinion as a patient. If you do decide to go ahead and > see a chiro I would bring your most recent set of xrays with you so > they can be examined and remind the chiro what will move in your > spine...and what will not. > > Sorry for the long post! > > Take Care, Cam > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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