i got diagnosed with scoliosis when i was 12 and now im 18 and my curve is now a little over 50° and i just had my first appointment to talk to a surgeon about what surgery would look like for me. ive had a really good experience with all the doctors that have helped me and like you i also love my visits to the hospital and seeing the whole process and it made me want to become a doctor too. i also go to boston children's so hearing about someone's experience with spinal fusion from someone who's just like me made me feel a lot better. thank you so much :)
Hey Anna! I am so happy you have had a positive experience so far - it is quite fascinating to go through the process. I hope everything goes well for you! Glad to have helped in some way :)
I was just diagnosed with severe scoliosis last week at age 17 and I was told I’ll need surgery before the end of the year. Seeing how optimistic you were about the whole situation makes me feel so much better about the whole experience. ❤ thank you
This makes my heart so happy! Wishing you all the best with your surgery - it will be so worth it! Feel free to reach out if you would like to chat more ☺
I had scoliosis too! and based on this video I think we had the same exceptionally well-dressed surgeon :) haha I’m 9 years post-op at this point (I was 11 at the time) so it’s been a minute since I’ve been back!
Hi! i’m going to have surgery later this year. If you don’t mind me asking, how is your mobility like? Did it ever bother you? And also how are you feeling almost 10 years now later?
@@toastytv8832 I'm 3 years post-op. Of course, my life would've been worse without the operation, but at the same time, I still have pain here and there. My mobility hasn't itself decreased by much, but it feels like it has.
Thanks for sharing your story. My daughter (21) is heading to BCCH this week for surgery with Dr Ghag. Great to see other young adults still being treated there.
I’m getting surgery tmrw and I’m very excited bc my back pain will be going away I just wanna get it over with lol, I’ve had scoliosis my whole life pretty much but never really affected me as I got older when I went to the doctors for a checkup and the guy told me your back is getting worse and I was very confused a little bit and scared I was like whatttttts going on here…. I had to go to a hospital to go get it checked out and they told me that I needed to go get surgery I was completely in shock and was breaking down bc I was scared for my life but now that I’m getting it i feel so confident and positive about my very soon upcoming surgery. I’m so excited but I’m scared bc it will be my first time going under😪😪 I’ve had sooo many X-rays of my back and hands and I’ve had my very first MRI with this adventure! (It actually wasn’t that bad) but I gotta wake up very early for my surgery… which I’m dreading😭😭 I’ve cried along the way scared for my life yk but i’ve never thought this would happen to me but it is. As I’m getting my surgery soooo soon but now I’m just accepting life and seeing where things will go for my next adventure! Edit: I didn’t really need to get surgery cause my doctor said that you can live with it later on (as I was getting more x rays through out the months and it was getting better due to a lot of physical activity that I do but I was still having pain) it’s your choice to get it done but I wanted to get surgery the minute my parents asked me that question. I wanted to get it done so bad bc I was in pain a lot and it got worse and I was like yep im getting the surgery done bc I just couldn’t live with it anymore.
Hey! I am getting my spinal fusion in a couple of weeks and your video really really helps me with my fears and worries about surgery. Just wanted to say thanks for making this video, your positive attitude is inspiring and helps me realize that I am also excited to not live in pain anymore. :-)
Hi Maddy, I'm also a 2nd year UBC student and i looooove your videos. I discovered u when covid hit bc i ended up getting stuck in the states this summer and watching ur videos makes me miss UBC a little less haha this video was particularly inspiring to me because I actually just had surgery and I'm recovering now. Its nowhere near as serious as your situation but I just wanted to say that im so happy for you that this all got worked out:) anyways just wanted to comment hehe thanks for the fun vids
Hi Esther! Oh my gosh! Hopefully you had some people you knew around you? I am happy to hear they brought a bit closer to UBC :) That's crazy! Look at us go with our crooked spines 😋 I hope your recovery goes well - its amazing how quickly you can bounce back from it! Take care of yourself!
hey maddy, i just want to say thank you for sharing your experience because it has allowed me to finally relate to someone! I currently have a similar curve to you prior surgery, except I have no upper curve, just a 50 degree lumbar curve. I don't really have any pain when sitting, but when I am standing or walking for more than half an hour my back starts to get very sore and achy. I will also be having T10 - L4 fused in the coming months which is quite daunting, but you have made me have a more positive outlook on it. I do have two questions though: 1. have your hips and waist become symmetrical, 2. have you had any pain at all since the surgery? Once again, it is wonderful to have someone to finally relate to! 💗
Hi Jade! So glad this has been a source of comfort and connection for you :) To answer your q's: 1. Since surgery my hips are nearly symmetrical! There are natural imbalances in my body and my spine is not absolutely 100% perfectly straight, but that said, it is SO much better (curve is less than 8 degrees now). 2. I experience mild discomfort if I over exert my back or try to twist/bend it in ways it can't. I can go hiking all day with a heavy pack and feel pretty dang good, or weight lift and be okay. So much of it is learning how to live with a fused spine, but overall, there hasn't been much pain or discomfort to stop me from doing anything really!
I have mild scoliosis, but I have extreme muscle imbalance since birth. Doctors in germany are bullshit and always said „yeahh its normal lol just come every year“ . Im glad hearing you talk about your situations it makes me happy.
Hi Carolina! First off don’t be scared 😊 I’m sure you’re in great hands! I won’t lie there is a lot of discomfort in the beginning. Doctors do their best to keep you comfortable by giving you medication - don’t worry they will definitely help manage the pain! I was off all my pain medication in 2 weeks and by 3 months, I felt as if I could play sports again! Even though you’re feeling a bit scared, do your best to have a positive outlook. This is not easy and it is okay to feel overwhelmed by it all but don’t let that define to experience. I hope the surgery goes well for you! Be brave Carolina you got this!
@@carolinasousa7099 that's great to hear! It is a really strange feeling isn't it? It kind of subsides after a while... but you are definitely really stiff for the first little while.
my curve back in the early 70,s was a 80 degre curve. i had a herrington rod put in, i was 15 now i am 67 .the prosesure was the worse,read up on how it was done in the early 70,s
I have scoliosis too! my scoliosis is abt 46 degrees...at first I was scared if i end up having a surgery but now I'm not terrified at all because I know that surgery is the only way I can have a better posture body..for now my doctor decided to not give me any surgery yet.. your video are making me more excited to have surgery🤭
46 degrees is quite the curve! Surgery is not something to be scared of... at all. I know it can be scary but omg when I tell you it changes your life... I'm not kidding! Best of luck when you do have it!
I had a 50 degree S curve…it’s been a little over a year after my surgery where I had 2 10” titanium rods and 16 screws. Happy to report no pain and I’m back to work, school, and fencing!
@@rerororo9513 well I can only speak for my surgeon and surgery but, I had a great experience! My surgeon actually got me walking several hours after the surgery. It is quite weird at first as you kind of have to learn how to walk again and all the other things of everyday life. Couple of pieces of advice for after surgery. Get wedge pillows they really help, get one one those toilet seat raisers with handles, and make sure you have a bed where you won’t have to climb a bunch of stairs. (Best to stay on the first floor for a week or two). I have no pain at all and I’m so so glad I had my surgery! I’m in NJ so I went with the pediatric orthopedic Center in Cedar Knolls, Nj. I had Dr.Rieger and he is the best! They have a bunch of advice and videos on their website you should check out!
Hi, your story sounds a little like mine, it’s nice to know that I’m not alone. I haven’t actually HAD the surgery yet tho, if you have any tips pls share if u can, but thanks ☺️. You put me at ease :)
Thank you. So much. I have been absolutely terrified of getting my surgery. To the point of tears anytime that I think about it. I appreciate how true and real you are 💕 What’s weird is that me and you have opposite curves lmao. I have an S curve, but my lower back is a small curve (around 24+ degrees) and my upper back (between my shoulders and rib cage) is around 54 degrees. So mine is opposite of yours 😂 but I’ve been so incredibly nervous, and none of the videos I have found have eased that fear or been realistic. I appreciate this, deeply. My question is…. 1. do you have any pains from the changes in weather/coldness because of the screws and metal? 2. How long did the pain truly last? And how flexible are you in that area that was fused?
You are so welcome 🥰 I am glad this video has brought you some comfort! I know it is scary stuff but truly, it is life changing. For your first question, no! I haven't noticed any discomfort that is weather related. I have spent my fair share of time in wet/cold environments and it has not been an issue. For question two, I am not sure if I got lucky but my pain really only lasted 1 week before it shifted to a dull ache/discomfort. I would say day 1-3 were objectively the worst (but I was very heavily medicated), day 3/4 was the worst because I started physio and was changing pain meds. It wasn't awful though. Day 5-10 I felt really stiff but the pain started to dissipate. They sent me home with morphine but I didn't need it. I was okay just taking Tylenol/Advil. Within two weeks I felt pain free. Keep in mind, I was still learning how to move and what felt comfortable vs what didn't - it is a learning process so be gentle with yourself. In the area I was fused I have very little flexibility - I can't bend that region of my body BUT I still have a lot of mobility and flexibility in other areas. My fusion has not limited me in any way... personally I won't go bungie jumping 😂but other than that, life is finally a fair game haha!
Thank you so much for making this video!! I have a very similar curve to yours and I need surgery soon too! Seeing you thrive after surgery has made me feel so much better 💕 do you have any before xrays?
@@madoraann9995 I don't experience pain regularly. Sometimes if I have bad form when doing an exercise movement at the gym then yes, sometimes it hurts. But usually it is totally! Mobility isn't a huge issue for me because a smaller portion of my spine was fused. That being said though, there is a region of my back that does not bend. Everything around it does haha but not the part thats fused.
Hi! I’ve finally found out my curves. I have three 29 - 55 and 43 I’ve been offered surgery but because I’m in pain I need to have an MRI. Afterwards I can decide if I want the surgery. Did you have an mri? To look for “abnormalities”? Thanks!
Hi! Oh my goodness - I can imagine the discomfort you must feel. I did have an MRI - they are standard practice if you have back surgery (at least in North America_ because your surgeon needs a really good idea of what is happening with your spine as well as your spinal cord. The MRI helps to check if your spinal cord is compromised. It really just gives your surgical team the best possible picture of what is happening with your spine!
I have an s curve, I have not had surgery yet but it will likely be at some point this year, I’m rather anxious but this video awnsered a few of my questions, so thank you
Did you end up getting a surgery? How did you feel? Did you feel you make a right decision or regret it? I’m scared for my girls, as they both have a scoliosis. Any feedback?
@@LindsayTu hi there, yeah I did, as of the 11th of this month I’ll be 1 year post op, it did hurt for a while, but now I’m pretty much fully healed, not in any pain, I do not regret it, and as for feedback, I can’t really think of much to say, If you have any more questions, feel free to ask, I’d say first ask if any kind of bracing is an option
Hi! I just wanted to say this video helped me a tooooon!! I have never related to someone so hard before ever. Probably because not a lot of us go through this 😂. I had the same thing from being on the verge of tears after playing soccer to my doctors telling my spine is perfectly fine to then being in shock when they tell me a I have a 50 degree curve in my back and a 23 degree curve too. You don’t understand how good it feels to be able to relate to this. It’s so frustrating i feel like us with scoliosis can feel really isolated and alone sometimes. I’m most likely going to have surgery in a few months and just like you i have a really good surgeon that my brother (who is a surgeon too) has worked with and recommended me. I’m in the USA and my surgeon is canadian like you I assume! He’s super nice so that explains it 😂 I’ve been pretty insecure recently in the past few years because my curve has really worsened. So i’m excited to finally have a straight spine and a good looking back. But i’m also scared for the surgery too! But your video has really made me be more positive and look on the bright side. I know recovery is hard but ima keep positive like you 🙏🏻 I am literally dreaming of the days when i’m recovered and can move forward with my life and new spine and be who i really want to be Also: Just curious, how is your mobility? Like do you feel different than before? And if you do have back pain now, would you say it’s less than when you had scoliosis? Or less often aswell? Cuz with my scoliosis now it hurts me at least half of the day. I know my back would hurt everynow and then after the fusion but i just don’t really know how much different. I know everyone is different but i’m just trying to do as much research as I can so I can mentally prepare my self for life after the fusion. Thanks so much once again
Hi! I am so glad to hear that 😊 It's always nice to know you aren't alone in what you are feeling especially when it comes with insecurity, pain, and ya know... a poor-ish quality of life. I am very happy you were able to find some comfort 😊Always look on the bright side... its way better haha! My mobility is honestly pretty great. I don't feel different than before, but I am slightly limited in bending my actual spine. Because they fused only 6 or 7 vertebrae (I think?) I still have a fair bit of movement. According to my surgeon, most flexibility comes from your lower vertebrae and because of that, he chose not to fuse too low which is why I can still bend as much as I do. Back pain is practically non-existent. The only time I ever experience discomfort is when I overwork my body. If I stand for ridiculously long periods of time, lift something thats way too heavy etc. then it hurts. But that only happens when I am doing completely unmanageable for my body. Sometimes if I twist the wrong way sleep funny then it hurts, but thats no different than anyone with an unfused spine haha! Trust me when I say it is WORTH IT! Yes everyone is different but I can tell you for sure that it will be much better than before. I was in pain almost all day every day before my surgery and then after it was like night and day... so little pain! All the best to you with your surgery! Feel free to message me at my email if you have any other questions 🤗
@@MaddyA Great to hear!! thanks for the reply! The good thing about my spine sort of like yours is that my surgeon does not have to fuse me too low either. More towards the center . I am pretty atheltic in the gym and with sports as much as can with my scoliosis obviously so i think that might help with the recovery. Thats so great to hear that you have minimal pain. As you know when you had scoliosis some days are good and there are other days where no matter what you do your back just hurts like hell and is super sore. My thinking is that even if I do have minimal pain with the surgery from doing the things that you listed, I wouldn't even think about doing them with my current back right now! I rather have a straight back that i don't have to be insecure about and deal with the 1 month of agony. But then I can move on and continue with my life. Would you say your confidence increased after the fusion? Because i genuinely feel like once I see my back looking straight and somewhat normal I will be so so happy and be able to live a confident life instead of trying to hide my back with certain clothes and positions and what not. Its like its always in the back of my head. I can't wait to not have to deal with that anymore Love your videos! Thanks again
My 12 year old daughter just got diagnosed with over 50 degree curve, hearing the suggestion of a surgery devastated us. Has anyone tried any of those modern braces for scolio that they offer now? Not the ones surgeons offer...
Braces weaken the muscles, its not a perfect solution. But surgery is way to early. I dont know what you did now, but I suggest you go to the ostepath. Find one, its important. Go swimming with your daughter, make her move more and touch her spine everyday and see how it moves. X rays will help. Sleep with the brace or only let her sleep on her back, its very important. But her a good matress. Take care, I hope everything is better now.
Thank you for sharing your story! I have moderate scoliosis in my mid back. It is effecting my breathing due to lung capacity. I also have lots of back pain. I’m seeing a neurologist this week to inquire about surgery. Can you please share your level mild, moderate, severe and symptoms? Thanks!
Hi! I really only experienced a lot of back pain. It got progressively worse over the years to a point where I couldn't stand for more than 30 minutes at a time. Because my curve was lower in my back, I didn't have any issues with breathing. I think I got a bit lucky in that sense.
@@MaddyA Thank you for taking time to respond. I had a scoliosis series and my scoliosis continues to be mild. My lungs are good, thank goodness. I have a herniated disc, in which I’m having corrected next week. As for the breathing, I am taking B12 vitamins, which helps a lot. Stay well!
hey :)) i’m supposed to get the surgery (just not sure the date) and i’ve been wondering if it’s the right choice for me. this video helped me change my perspective on the surgery and i’m not excited- but i’m less nervous for what’s in store for me
My daughter is 11 her top curve is 45.4 and her bottom is 37.6! We were just told today she needs surgery so I was trying to find something to show her to make her feel better cause she’s scared! How old were you when you had your operation? How was the pain afterwards and for how long? How long before you could go back to sports? What’s your range of motion like now? Are you stiff or are you able to move??
Hi Zeni! I can talk to her directly if she would like! We could do a video call if that is something both you and her are comfortable with. I can only imagine how overwhelmed she must feel. Send me an email - itsmemaddya@gmail.com I was 14 turning 15. The pain was moderate, but with medication it was nearly non-existent. I spent most of my time sleeping so I didn't notice it much. It was more of an ache than sharp pain - it lasted only about 2 weeks after my operation. Swimming was allowed after 3 months, moderate and extremely low impact was 6 months, and regular sports a year. Range of motion is incredible... a little restricted - no twisting or anything but I am still quite flexible. Very little stiffness! I can't bend the part of my back that's fused but I don't feel limited at all.
I had scoliosis surgery 2 years ago T10 -S1 fusion and L4 - S1 translumbar interbody fusion I think is possible like you. 40 degrees C curb. I was 55 . One of my screws broke 9 months later no worries I don't even knew at that moment I thought was my bones just pops 😅 I heard it. I want to know if you have stiffness in you back . Does people notice that you have something different specialty when you walk? So I never have paid in my back after surgery BUT the only time I have few minutes of pain is when I get up from bed But no in my back is in my sacral joint . I walk with my shoulders down people has to remind me to walk straight. I have 2 rods 18 screws Thanks for you video Please let me know how you doing I am happy with my surgery I leave in pain for 33 years. Pinch nerve and muscle spasms all the time.
Hi Maddy, I would like to connect with you how you feel after spine surgery. Both of my girls diagnosed with severe scoliosis. They were really scared and didn’t want to do surgery. Scheduled surgery in early June 2024. Can you give me an advice? Did you happy or regret doing the surgery? Thanks
Hi, I’m 13 years old and a T1, T9 paraplegic. I got diagnosed with scoliosis 5 years ago. My curve is considered “severe” but my mom didn’t really want the surgery for me. I wear a back brace but the doctor says it is not helping at all at this point. We are considering surgery this summer and I’m REALLY nervous and scared. I was looking at videos about some people who’ve had the surgery and I found your video very helpful. Even though my situation is fairly different, I would like to ask you two questions: What are some activities that you couldn’t or can’t do because of surgery? And, did you think that it was worth it?
Hi Jamille! I am happy to answer your questions. At the end of the day, you need to make a decision that makes the most sense for you and your personal circumstances. I was also a bit nervous for the surgery, but what I had to remind myself of was just how much this surgery would help me. I can still do everything I did pre-surgery, but now without pain and discomfort. I am slightly limited in how I bend my back, but I can still touch my toes, bend over, twist side to side, etc. Overall, not much changed besides how I felt day to day. I 100% know that, for me, it was worth it. Having the surgery meant that I could go back to playing soccer without pain. I could sit and stand comfortably again, and I also gained a lot of confidence - scoliosis can become very visual, and it really affected my self-esteem. My quality of life significantly improved and I wouldn't have had it any other way. I think I am 6 or 7 years post op and I feel great! I hope that helps a little bit :) Feel free to shoot me an email if you want to chat! Always happy to answer any other questions you have there: itsmemaddya@gmail.com
Any idea on how long they give you to pay for the surgery because that’s my greatest concern. I’ve been wanting to do this for years now and I’m almost 27. I feel like I’m losing my youth because I’m in pain all the time even though I exercise. If I wasn’t neglected as much as a child I would’ve never been in this situation to begin with.
Hi Mandy, Great Video and I’m really Happy you have been doing so good after a Major Surgery. I turn 62 Tomorrow and I have had 8 Surgery’s on my Back. I have 4 Fusions in my Neck and 2 in my Lower Back. Now I have developed Scoliosis, Spondiolisthesis ? And I have 4 Ruptured Discs. I also have a Pain Pump and now they want to add one of those kinda like a Tens Unit but it goes in your Spine and has a Disc thing that goes inside of you like the Pump. I am a Journeyman Electrician but I’m on Disability now. I’m hoping they will Fix my Scoliosis when they repair all the Disc. Anyway, I’m so glad you are doing well. I live with really bad Pain everyday. Do you have any Pain still? I’m just wondering if the Scoliosis Surgery might get me out of Pain. Even a little better would be really Great.
Hi! I am sorry to hear you've been dealing with main and ongoing challenges. I wish you well :) I don't experience as much pain as I did before my surgery - most days I feel perfectly fine. My back does get stiff, but it's nothing a little stretching can't help with!
Thanks for sharing this. I love your enthusiasm. Since you invited us to ask questions, I'd like to know if the hardware will remain in your body for the rest of your life or if you plan to have it removed at a later date. Also, how painful was the recovery during the first month? And how has the spinal fusion affected your flexibility / mobility? Are you still able to bend, stretch, do any sports or dance without having pain?
Hi! Of course! I am happy to answer them :) Yes, my rods and screws will remain in my body for the rest of my life. They only consider removing them if they cause problems and so far I have had no issues with them! You're on a LOT of medication when you first have surgery. I don't remember the first few days because of it. The idea is to keep you comfortable for the first bit so you can rest and recover as much as you can before you leave the hospital. I personally did not experience pain per se. I experienced a bit of discomfort and pressure in my back, but besides that it was totally fine. Let me stress that this will be different for everyone but I was off my pain medication 2 weeks after my surgery. I didn't use the pain killers they gave me at the hospital either, I was just using Advil for those two weeks. Pain will be different for everyone but within the first month, I went from being uncomfortable/taking pain killers to feeling practically normal/no pain killers. It has limited my flexibility a little bit but overall not much. I can still do everything I used to be able to do. The only thing is that my back doesn't bend as much as it used to. I don't experience any pain when I am exercising or dancing, or really doing anything. I do get a bit sore if I push myself to hard but that usually only happens when I do excessive bending/twisting/heavy lifting. Hope that helps!
@@gaAlsa Ah! I didn't. I love my scar and think it is pretty cool. I know some people feel differently but I love that it tells a story. I hope your surgery goes well!
In 2016 I got diagnosed with scoliosis the first orthopedic doctor I went to told me I needed a brace because I wasn’t quite severe enough for surgery I did that for almost 2 years I hated it so much it hurt and didnt help so we got a second opinion he said wow your first doctor should have never suggested a brace you need surgery because I was 15 they made me wait a few months so my growth plates could finish growing in the meantime I went to the chiropractor a few times but then I had a spinal fusion that was 12 hrs long and the next day they wanted me to start walking I went home three days later and immediately started physical therapy and I did that off and on for two years the only reason I did physical therapy that long was because my joints and muscles weren’t used to my back being straight so that caused major issue that made me need to stay in physical therapy longer I don’t do physical therapy anymore but sometimes I still feel like I should because rarely I still have knee and hip pains
Hi, your story is similar to one of my daughter. Both of my daughters diagnosed with scoliosis. My eldest one is too late to do braces. Same with my second girl. The pediatric doctor recommended to do spine surgery. But some of the people like the chiropractors & some of my friends don’t recommend spine surgery because it’s very invasive especially my girls are still young. 18 & 13. Did you happy that you did a surgery? Or regret? How was your mobility? Can you still bend? My daughters love dancing and they are scared that after surgery, they will lose the mobility or be able to be flexible
@@LindsayTu no I do not regret the surgery I can’t go to chiropractors anymore now that I have the rods in my back however I had my surgery 6 years ago and since then there has been more research and better treatment plans like I know this one surgery they have materials that they use that allow the child to continue growing and not have to worry about more surgeries or anything like that but because of when I had my surgery I had to wait until I was done growing so I wouldn’t have to have more surgeries or anything my mobility is pretty much the same and no difference but I do still get joint pains and aches after doing to much physical activity which isn’t ideal but I work on it by continuing physical therapy but again since I’ve had my surgery there are a lot better options that allow kids to continue growing normally
@@PiperFrech Thank you so much for your reply. The girls will have second opinion next week. My 18 yos daughter felt anxious because she didn’t want to do surgery. She thinks she is fine and doesn’t need a surgery. Her chiropractor kinda giving her a hope that with proper treatment, the curve will get better. Is it true? If it’s true, then most scoliosis people will get chiro treatment that less invasive than doing surgery. May I ask, is it you or your parents who want to do surgery?
@@LindsayTu honestly if she’s already 18 and done growing there’s not much that will help the curve aside from a form of surgery and no it was not my parents choice it was my choice I hated the pain I hated the braces and having to sit out of my sports so even though the surgery and its recovery was really hard I wouldn’t have it any other way because even though I still have joint issues I have zero back problems and still have pretty much complete normal flexibility which is what I needed to keep doing the things I love
I've had sclouisis since I was a little girl I don't know of when it started bit I noticed it more and became more aware of it when my sister had sclouisis and she got spine fusion her whole spine was fused from her neck down to almost her butt. I my self have sclouisis and over the years my sclouisis got worse and I've been on pain management since 2015 due to my sclouisis pain and take pain pills. I was born early I have a alot of health issues, so that's why I have sclouisis.i haven't been to the back doctor in a very long time and I refuse to go the orthopedic doctor at this time
Hi - this vlog is from many years in the past but I just found it as a viewer almost a month post-op. Thank you for sharing! I also have a question, our fusions are very similar, mine is t9-l4 that went from 42 to 15 after surgery. How is your mobility? Are you able to do a yoga sumo squat?
Hello! Of course - always happy to share :) My mobility is pretty amazing. There are some limitations in terms of my rotation abilities and bending my back, but overall, I can move just as good as before. I felt quite stiff until 3 months post-op and then after that, I quickly started to loosen up! I can do a sumo squat, touch my toes, and do everything I did before! Cracking my back is a bit tough now that it is fused haha but the surgery only improved my overall quality of life!
hey! i know this video isn’t very new but i’m hoping you can help me. i recently discovered i have scoliosis in the lower part of my back. i’m on the borderline, at about 38-40 degrees i think. at the moment, it’s an option for me to have surgery, however, if the curve gets worse it’s likely that i will need to have it. i’m really questioning surgery right now and watching videos like these really help. i’m quite squeamish so a big concern for me is probably stitches. i’ve only ever had dissolvable stitches in my mouth and even they were quite uncomfortable. in terms of the type of stitches they use, what happens? and was showering or putting on/wearing clothes an issue for you? i’m not very good with pain so i’m not sure how i’ll go in general, i just can’t tolerate things like stitches and open wounds and things. also did you ever feel any stinging in the area where they cut? or was it almost like it was completely sealed ? also, are there any tips you can give to someone who has a lot of anxiety surrounding surgeries? thank you so much. it’s comforting to see relevant and newer blog type videos about scoliosis so thank you for taking your time to film this, it really helps :)
Got diagnosed with scoliosis this year (18yo) too late for back brace, 25 degree... I have back pain like hell and still can't go for surgery... Any suggestions?!?
I am fortunately just as flexible as I was before. My mobility is a little limited in terms of rotation from side to side - i also can't bend the part of my back that is fused but that's to be expected when there is a metal rod in there lol Overall though, it's not too bad! Good luck with your surgery!
I have scoliosis and I'm just 14. I live in Bangladesh and here most of the people don't know what scoliosis is. My curve is like 67 degrees and doctor told that i have to do surgery. Now me and my family is super worried because it's risky though😢
I will start by saying I had L3-T10 ish fused - only about 6 vertebrae. My range of motion is pretty great! It is important to note there is a difference between flexibility and mobility. I can bend over and touch my toes because I am flexible. I can do a hula hoop motion with my hips just fine because I have mobility. I specifically can't bend the section of my spine that is fused. So if I try to do the cobra yoga move... it hurts and it does not work. Certain movements don't work because of the fusion, but I have not found an activity that I can't do because of it! It's all about learning how you move!
poor baby is too young to be in pain. Im 41 and its whatever I am in pain but thats what happens sometimes when your in your 40s. But I hate seeing a young person going through this ughhh
haha it was the same for me! i was in high school at the time and was so stressed about missing school! my pain was okay though so i went back after 2 weeks - definitely important to prioritize recovery and listening to your body!
@@scofficial5808 hellooo my mobility is almost normal but only because I didn’t get fused all the way down to the bottom of my hips and to the top of my neck. My doctor decided to keep my hips curve the way it was so I wouldn’t lose much mobility in my legs (I am so thankful to him for that). I live in Ireland so I went to the cappah hospital in Dublin. Hope this helps :)
Thank you for sharing your experience, it is truly inspiring! After your surgery, have you ever felt any more back pain? I am in a very similar situation, and I am trying to weigh my options :)
I’m getting scoliosis surgery next month I’m 13 and love sports but it hurts me so bad and I don’t like scars or really intense pain and I have a phobia of needles never even got my blood drawn before so I’m absolutely terrified
It's totally okay to be scared! Honestly though, the surgery is life changing. Within the first month of having my surgery I felt good as new! Your doctors will make sure you are comfortable and in as little pain as possible. Do your best to "reframe" your perspective - scars show strength rather than weaknesses, they are unique to you. Everything you are going to go through contributes to you getting better. Take it one step at a time! It will be okay :)
Holy oof, I was just looking at my back and it pretty bad. I’m going to a appointment next week and I don’t want my doctor telling me bad news about my back;(
Yes! Taking time to recover is important, but I found I was ready to get back into sports around 6 months post-op! i have had no limitations in what i can participate in :) Wishing her all the best
I’ve had a spinal fusion just like your but my back muscles seem to not work anymore. Never had this issue before surgery. Do uk what this is ? Or what’s going on?
I am sorry to hear that! I don't know what this is... I didn't experience anything like that. I was stiff for a while and had trouble moving in the first week after my surgery. I would encourage you to chat with your surgeon about this!
Do you feel tightness ( feels like wearing brace ) in your back ? I had my scoliosis surgery three months ago as well .... I have a lot of stiffness or tightness in my back
I don't feel any tightness anymore. From what I remember, my tightness really only lasted about a couple months... I felt back to normal by month three. Everybody's recovery will be different but if you're concerned/curious you should always reach out to your doctor!
That chiropractor is pretty bad. I have congenital kyphoscoliosis(at birth) and mine said you have a spine deformity before saying hi 🤣. I don't qualify for correction surgery cause my kyphosis is pretty much compromise my nerves
Hi Maddy My daughter is 14 years old and we just found out she has scoliosis and her curve is is 50 which I already had two specialist look at her and they both suggested surgery, But her Pediatrician suggested to wait on surgery cuz she is young still. The specialist said she is done growing according to her X-rays. I’m so torn apart which way to go about? As a mother I want to make the best decision for her!
Hi Lorena! If it brings you any comfort, I was 14 turning 15 when I had my surgery done. My doctors were more concerned about my growth than they were how young I was. If the specialists say your daughter is done growing and they recommend surgery, I think trusting their expertise is the best choice. The surgery will be life changing for your daughter... trust me when I say it is like night and day! At the end of the day it is up to you and your daughter, but her surgeons/specialist best understand her needs and the ways they can support her :) Hopefully that helps!
What are some examples of things that are difficult to do bc of you surgery? I am in my boston brace but Idk if it's going to work so I'm rlly nervous that I'm going to have to get a surgery.
Honestly nothing! I mean I can't do a back bend or anything like that haha. My rotation is a little limited but besides that, I can do anything so long as it doesn't cause pain. It will be different for everyone of course but the surgery was the best thing that happened to me. Don't be afraid of surgery :) It is so worth it!
Does your spinal nerves also had a issue because of scoliosis and how many hours it take for your surgery and in how many months you Fully recover, because I have to also undergo this surgery within 20_25 days . Please help
I had no issues with my spinal cord or nerves. The surgery was about 6 hours. I felt better within the first few months but full recovery took a year (the time it takes for the bone to grow). Do not worry! It will be okay ☺️
Hi ..i am too late to discover my scoliosis...now iam26 years old I have consulted a surgeon who decided for me a surgery with out any discussion about my case and this made me worried.. Then I have visited a physical therapist who advised me to have sessions with them especially i don't suffer any problems with my breathing nor walking, and the flexibility of my body very well... I decided to have those sessions to relieve my pains and improve the shape, but still afraid in the future What will happen with my poor spine I have s scoliosis by 52° &60° Can you help me for more consultation ? Thanks I
Hi! Unfortunately I am not suited to offer any medical advice. I can only speak from my personal experience. I would encourage you to talk with your doctors and see what makes most sense for you. All the best!
Hello.I have scoliosis since 15 years old.Now I'm in 31..My degree of scoliosis is 66 up and 55 lower back.Jist think if its to late for operation. My doctor offer me operation but I'm scared and I just want some support if I have to do it or just stay like this..
i just had my surgery a couple days ago and i just got back home a couple hours ago. the only thing im struggling with is trying to get out of my bed by myself, thankfully i have a very high pain tolerance so i can get out of bed without cringing super hard; but does anybody have any tips on how to get out of bed correctly without messing up the surgery?
Glad to hear you have made it back home! After my surgery, I was pretty stiff, so my movement was a bit limited. To get out of bed, I would roll onto my side and carefully push myself up. It was a slow process haha! It usually worked - if not I would crawl out of bed onto the floor lol
Hi! I have very few limitations and I don’t regularly feel pain if any at all! My mobility is slightly inhibited but by such an insignificant amount. Honestly its as if my back is not fused. I can pretty much do everything i did before but without pain!
I had my spine surgery for my vertebrae fracture,for which plate n screw are attached on T12 n L1 vertebrae.Do u feel ur plate or screw and what is the life of these implants ,..I know my case is different but just asking if u hav any lead to it
nothing! I just let it do its thing! once it was healed though any time i was in the sun i would put zinc mineral sunscreen on it to protect it from burning... the skin was so sensitive and fresh
@@stxr2893 i have heard vitamin e oil can be very helpful for scars, same as bio oil, but I didn't use either so I'm going off of what i have heard from others. laser may work - you would have to look into it. scars are beautiful, we may feel differently, but scars don't change who you are ♥ best of luck with everything!
@@MaddyA thanks. How many tubes are in you after the surgery? I'm needle phobic and have panic attack at just the sight or thought of any cannula or iv so if I drink water can they remove the iv?
I can bend the upper part of spine (the unfused part) but where the rods and screws are is immobile. I can exercise no problem! Certain things are really challenging or uncomfortable so I tend to avoid movements that require a lot of twisting/bending.
I just found out I have scoliosis on 5th april2021, I have an appointment on 11th march 2021 to take xrays and talk about my scoliosis, since I am really skinny my spine shows a bit through my skin and my curve is not a small one for sure, I'm personally really scared and scared if I need an operation and it goes horrible like not being able to move my legs or waking up in the middle of surgery etc,and it does kinda make sense why I'm scared since I have NEVER had surgery but what are the pros and cons of surgery and if u had physical therapy or a brace what are the pros and cons if these? I hope u answer!
Hi! I am so sorry I thought I responded to your comment! You do not need to be afraid! These surgeries are quite common and pretty low risk :) It depends on your personal situation but you really don't need to be afraid! Your doctors will take care of you!
@@MaddyA hey ty for replying! Turns out I have a 47° curve at only 13, doctor said I'll wear a brace for 6 months then ill go in October to schedule surgery or wear the brace for 3 more months, love your vids and stay safe💖
Mam!.. I m also suffering from scoliosis since birth.. 😣can it be cure by doing exercise or i have to go with the surgery?😥pls reply.. Eagerly waiting!
Hi! Scoliosis can't really be cured by exercising because it is a bone deformity + muscular issues (at least in my case thats what it was). Surgery is the most practical option. Go see your doctor and see what they recommend! Everyone is different and will have different needs. Don't be afraid of surgery though... it truly is life changing... for the better!
@@MaddyA thank you so much 🤗u have given me the confidence!n if surgery then how much time it take to recover..?i dont know why.. But im little bit nervous for the surgery 😣
@@janhavi5760 Within 2 weeks I was off my pain medication and was out and about doing my thing. At 3 months I felt amazing! Everyone is different but it is surprising how quickly you heal from it. Keep in mind you aren'y allowed intense physical activity for a while so that your spine can fully heal! Being nervous is totally normal! It can be scary but I guess what helped me was knowing that my quality of life was going to improve so much and that I had a great team of doctors. I am always happy to chat via email if you have any other concerns :)
Your surgery was mostly to correct the lower curve right? We just discovered my scoliosis a year ago and I'm 30.. at first my lumbar was 11 degrees , now its jumped to 17 over the last year. Recently started PT so hope that helps strengthen me. Very weird overall. I went my whole life w no problems and only now gets discovered @@MaddyA
Fortunately here is Canada healthcare is practically free (if you have insurance). I was incredibly lucky because my family didn’t have to pay anything for my surgery - I am forever grateful for that.
Hi Wendy! For his privacy I won't share it on here but if you are need of an appointment of some kind, reach out to your family doctor and they can get you a referral!
hi just found out i have over 50-degree scoliosis, and this definitely helped me with my anxiety
i got diagnosed with scoliosis when i was 12 and now im 18 and my curve is now a little over 50° and i just had my first appointment to talk to a surgeon about what surgery would look like for me. ive had a really good experience with all the doctors that have helped me and like you i also love my visits to the hospital and seeing the whole process and it made me want to become a doctor too. i also go to boston children's so hearing about someone's experience with spinal fusion from someone who's just like me made me feel a lot better. thank you so much :)
Hey Anna! I am so happy you have had a positive experience so far - it is quite fascinating to go through the process. I hope everything goes well for you! Glad to have helped in some way :)
I was just diagnosed with severe scoliosis last week at age 17 and I was told I’ll need surgery before the end of the year. Seeing how optimistic you were about the whole situation makes me feel so much better about the whole experience. ❤ thank you
This makes my heart so happy! Wishing you all the best with your surgery - it will be so worth it! Feel free to reach out if you would like to chat more ☺
You’re such a big inspiration to soo many people.
I had scoliosis too! and based on this video I think we had the same exceptionally well-dressed surgeon :) haha
I’m 9 years post-op at this point (I was 11 at the time) so it’s been a minute since I’ve been back!
Hi! i’m going to have surgery later this year. If you don’t mind me asking, how is your mobility like? Did it ever bother you? And also how are you feeling almost 10 years now later?
@@toastytv8832 I'm 3 years post-op. Of course, my life would've been worse without the operation, but at the same time, I still have pain here and there. My mobility hasn't itself decreased by much, but it feels like it has.
Thanks for sharing your story. My daughter (21) is heading to BCCH this week for surgery with Dr Ghag. Great to see other young adults still being treated there.
Dr. Ghag was my surgeon!! He is wonderful - very supportive! Best of luck to your daughter :)
I’m getting surgery tmrw and I’m very excited bc my back pain will be going away I just wanna get it over with lol, I’ve had scoliosis my whole life pretty much but never really affected me as I got older when I went to the doctors for a checkup and the guy told me your back is getting worse and I was very confused a little bit and scared I was like whatttttts going on here…. I had to go to a hospital to go get it checked out and they told me that I needed to go get surgery I was completely in shock and was breaking down bc I was scared for my life but now that I’m getting it i feel so confident and positive about my very soon upcoming surgery. I’m so excited but I’m scared bc it will be my first time going under😪😪 I’ve had sooo many X-rays of my back and hands and I’ve had my very first MRI with this adventure! (It actually wasn’t that bad) but I gotta wake up very early for my surgery… which I’m dreading😭😭 I’ve cried along the way scared for my life yk but i’ve never thought this would happen to me but it is. As I’m getting my surgery soooo soon but now I’m just accepting life and seeing where things will go for my next adventure!
Edit: I didn’t really need to get surgery cause my doctor said that you can live with it later on (as I was getting more x rays through out the months and it was getting better due to a lot of physical activity that I do but I was still having pain) it’s your choice to get it done but I wanted to get surgery the minute my parents asked me that question. I wanted to get it done so bad bc I was in pain a lot and it got worse and I was like yep im getting the surgery done bc I just couldn’t live with it anymore.
Thanks for sharing. Best of luck with your surgery! I hope it all goes well for you 🤗
Thank you so much for this fun and relaxed video. U are the best! Spine family!
Hey! I am getting my spinal fusion in a couple of weeks and your video really really helps me with my fears and worries about surgery. Just wanted to say thanks for making this video, your positive attitude is inspiring and helps me realize that I am also excited to not live in pain anymore. :-)
Hi Maddy,
I'm also a 2nd year UBC student and i looooove your videos. I discovered u when covid hit bc i ended up getting stuck in the states this summer and watching ur videos makes me miss UBC a little less haha
this video was particularly inspiring to me because I actually just had surgery and I'm recovering now. Its nowhere near as serious as your situation but I just wanted to say that im so happy for you that this all got worked out:) anyways just wanted to comment hehe thanks for the fun vids
Hi Esther!
Oh my gosh! Hopefully you had some people you knew around you? I am happy to hear they brought a bit closer to UBC :)
That's crazy! Look at us go with our crooked spines 😋 I hope your recovery goes well - its amazing how quickly you can bounce back from it! Take care of yourself!
Hi great video I had the operation about 6 years ago and never suffered with any pain it's always great hearing people's stories 👍
Glad to see that you had the surgery but it's a bummer that you didn't get it sooner. Like your upbeat attitude.
hey maddy, i just want to say thank you for sharing your experience because it has allowed me to finally relate to someone! I currently have a similar curve to you prior surgery, except I have no upper curve, just a 50 degree lumbar curve. I don't really have any pain when sitting, but when I am standing or walking for more than half an hour my back starts to get very sore and achy. I will also be having T10 - L4 fused in the coming months which is quite daunting, but you have made me have a more positive outlook on it.
I do have two questions though: 1. have your hips and waist become symmetrical, 2. have you had any pain at all since the surgery?
Once again, it is wonderful to have someone to finally relate to! 💗
Hi Jade! So glad this has been a source of comfort and connection for you :) To answer your q's:
1. Since surgery my hips are nearly symmetrical! There are natural imbalances in my body and my spine is not absolutely 100% perfectly straight, but that said, it is SO much better (curve is less than 8 degrees now).
2. I experience mild discomfort if I over exert my back or try to twist/bend it in ways it can't. I can go hiking all day with a heavy pack and feel pretty dang good, or weight lift and be okay. So much of it is learning how to live with a fused spine, but overall, there hasn't been much pain or discomfort to stop me from doing anything really!
I have mild scoliosis, but I have extreme muscle imbalance since birth. Doctors in germany are bullshit and always said „yeahh its normal lol just come every year“ . Im glad hearing you talk about your situations it makes me happy.
Lookin Great 😍 I'm glad that you are almost done with this!
ua-cam.com/video/NPs4HsOuvQs/v-deo.html
Heyy! I’m getting the minimal invasive surgery in a week, I’m so scared! Does it hurt a lot? Thank you, I love your positivity! 💓💓
Hi Carolina! First off don’t be scared 😊 I’m sure you’re in great hands! I won’t lie there is a lot of discomfort in the beginning. Doctors do their best to keep you comfortable by giving you medication - don’t worry they will definitely help manage the pain! I was off all my pain medication in 2 weeks and by 3 months, I felt as if I could play sports again! Even though you’re feeling a bit scared, do your best to have a positive outlook. This is not easy and it is okay to feel overwhelmed by it all but don’t let that define to experience. I hope the surgery goes well for you! Be brave Carolina you got this!
Maddy A thank you so much!! I’ll update you after the surgery 💓
@@carolinasousa7099 How did it go? How are you feeling? :)
@@MaddyA heyy, it went well! It’s still weird because its hard to move but it’s totally worth it!
@@carolinasousa7099 that's great to hear! It is a really strange feeling isn't it? It kind of subsides after a while... but you are definitely really stiff for the first little while.
my curve back in the early 70,s was a 80 degre curve. i had a herrington rod put in, i was 15 now i am 67 .the prosesure was the worse,read up on how it was done in the early 70,s
getting my surgery done this Tuesday
How did it go x
I have scoliosis too! my scoliosis is abt 46 degrees...at first I was scared if i end up having a surgery but now I'm not terrified at all because I know that surgery is the only way I can have a better posture body..for now my doctor decided to not give me any surgery yet.. your video are making me more excited to have surgery🤭
46 degrees is quite the curve! Surgery is not something to be scared of... at all. I know it can be scary but omg when I tell you it changes your life... I'm not kidding! Best of luck when you do have it!
I had a 50 degree S curve…it’s been a little over a year after my surgery where I had 2 10” titanium rods and 16 screws. Happy to report no pain and I’m back to work, school, and fencing!
I have scoliosis with 70 degree, how do you feel now? I'm afraid of surgery, I have sciatica, and numbness in my left foot
@@rerororo9513 well I can only speak for my surgeon and surgery but, I had a great experience! My surgeon actually got me walking several hours after the surgery. It is quite weird at first as you kind of have to learn how to walk again and all the other things of everyday life. Couple of pieces of advice for after surgery. Get wedge pillows they really help, get one one those toilet seat raisers with handles, and make sure you have a bed where you won’t have to climb a bunch of stairs. (Best to stay on the first floor for a week or two). I have no pain at all and I’m so so glad I had my surgery! I’m in NJ so I went with the pediatric orthopedic Center in Cedar Knolls, Nj. I had Dr.Rieger and he is the best! They have a bunch of advice and videos on their website you should check out!
I have a 50 degree S curve as well! I'm going to have surgery later this year, hopefully it goes well.
@@SleepyMyMelody best of luck!
@@SleepyMyMelody hope you will be better. What is the cost of surgery?
Hi, your story sounds a little like mine, it’s nice to know that I’m not alone. I haven’t actually HAD the surgery yet tho, if you have any tips pls share if u can, but thanks ☺️. You put me at ease :)
Definitely not alone! I didn't realize how common scoliosis is. Send me an email and if you have any specific questions we can chat that way!
Thank you. So much. I have been absolutely terrified of getting my surgery. To the point of tears anytime that I think about it. I appreciate how true and real you are 💕 What’s weird is that me and you have opposite curves lmao. I have an S curve, but my lower back is a small curve (around 24+ degrees) and my upper back (between my shoulders and rib cage) is around 54 degrees. So mine is opposite of yours 😂 but I’ve been so incredibly nervous, and none of the videos I have found have eased that fear or been realistic. I appreciate this, deeply. My question is….
1. do you have any pains from the changes in weather/coldness because of the screws and metal?
2. How long did the pain truly last? And how flexible are you in that area that was fused?
You are so welcome 🥰 I am glad this video has brought you some comfort! I know it is scary stuff but truly, it is life changing.
For your first question, no! I haven't noticed any discomfort that is weather related. I have spent my fair share of time in wet/cold environments and it has not been an issue.
For question two, I am not sure if I got lucky but my pain really only lasted 1 week before it shifted to a dull ache/discomfort. I would say day 1-3 were objectively the worst (but I was very heavily medicated), day 3/4 was the worst because I started physio and was changing pain meds. It wasn't awful though. Day 5-10 I felt really stiff but the pain started to dissipate. They sent me home with morphine but I didn't need it. I was okay just taking Tylenol/Advil. Within two weeks I felt pain free. Keep in mind, I was still learning how to move and what felt comfortable vs what didn't - it is a learning process so be gentle with yourself.
In the area I was fused I have very little flexibility - I can't bend that region of my body BUT I still have a lot of mobility and flexibility in other areas. My fusion has not limited me in any way... personally I won't go bungie jumping 😂but other than that, life is finally a fair game haha!
Congratulations better to your scoliosis😌 I'm so sad because make it on me😢 I'm so hurt 😭
Thank you so much for making this video!! I have a very similar curve to yours and I need surgery soon too! Seeing you thrive after surgery has made me feel so much better 💕 do you have any before xrays?
Of course! I am glad to hear it - it is well worth it :) I do have them somewhere but I have no idea where!
@@MaddyA oh fair enough! Do you ever have any pain or trouble with mobility?
@@madoraann9995 I don't experience pain regularly. Sometimes if I have bad form when doing an exercise movement at the gym then yes, sometimes it hurts. But usually it is totally! Mobility isn't a huge issue for me because a smaller portion of my spine was fused. That being said though, there is a region of my back that does not bend. Everything around it does haha but not the part thats fused.
hi how did it go and how old r u
Hi! I’ve finally found out my curves. I have three 29 - 55 and 43 I’ve been offered surgery but because I’m in pain I need to have an MRI. Afterwards I can decide if I want the surgery. Did you have an mri? To look for “abnormalities”? Thanks!
Hi! Oh my goodness - I can imagine the discomfort you must feel. I did have an MRI - they are standard practice if you have back surgery (at least in North America_ because your surgeon needs a really good idea of what is happening with your spine as well as your spinal cord. The MRI helps to check if your spinal cord is compromised. It really just gives your surgical team the best possible picture of what is happening with your spine!
I have an s curve, I have not had surgery yet but it will likely be at some point this year, I’m rather anxious but this video awnsered a few of my questions, so thank you
Did you end up getting a surgery? How did you feel? Did you feel you make a right decision or regret it? I’m scared for my girls, as they both have a scoliosis. Any feedback?
@@LindsayTu hi there, yeah I did, as of the 11th of this month I’ll be 1 year post op, it did hurt for a while, but now I’m pretty much fully healed, not in any pain, I do not regret it, and as for feedback, I can’t really think of much to say, If you have any more questions, feel free to ask, I’d say first ask if any kind of bracing is an option
Hi! I just wanted to say this video helped me a tooooon!!
I have never related to someone so hard before ever. Probably because not a lot of us go through this 😂. I had the same thing from being on the verge of tears after playing soccer to my doctors telling my spine is perfectly fine to then being in shock when they tell me a I have a 50 degree curve in my back and a 23 degree curve too. You don’t understand how good it feels to be able to relate to this. It’s so frustrating i feel like us with scoliosis can feel really isolated and alone sometimes.
I’m most likely going to have surgery in a few months and just like you i have a really good surgeon that my brother (who is a surgeon too) has worked with and recommended me. I’m in the USA and my surgeon is canadian like you I assume! He’s super nice so that explains it 😂
I’ve been pretty insecure recently in the past few years because my curve has really worsened. So i’m excited to finally have a straight spine and a good looking back. But i’m also scared for the surgery too! But your video has really made me be more positive and look on the bright side. I know recovery is hard but ima keep positive like you 🙏🏻 I am literally dreaming of the days when i’m recovered and can move forward with my life and new spine and be who i really want to be
Also: Just curious, how is your mobility? Like do you feel different than before? And if you do have back pain now, would you say it’s less than when you had scoliosis? Or less often aswell? Cuz with my scoliosis now it hurts me at least half of the day. I know my back would hurt everynow and then after the fusion but i just don’t really know how much different.
I know everyone is different but i’m just trying to do as much research as I can so I can mentally
prepare my self for life after the fusion. Thanks so much once again
Hi! I am so glad to hear that 😊
It's always nice to know you aren't alone in what you are feeling especially when it comes with insecurity, pain, and ya know... a poor-ish quality of life. I am very happy you were able to find some comfort 😊Always look on the bright side... its way better haha!
My mobility is honestly pretty great. I don't feel different than before, but I am slightly limited in bending my actual spine. Because they fused only 6 or 7 vertebrae (I think?) I still have a fair bit of movement. According to my surgeon, most flexibility comes from your lower vertebrae and because of that, he chose not to fuse too low which is why I can still bend as much as I do.
Back pain is practically non-existent. The only time I ever experience discomfort is when I overwork my body. If I stand for ridiculously long periods of time, lift something thats way too heavy etc. then it hurts. But that only happens when I am doing completely unmanageable for my body. Sometimes if I twist the wrong way sleep funny then it hurts, but thats no different than anyone with an unfused spine haha!
Trust me when I say it is WORTH IT! Yes everyone is different but I can tell you for sure that it will be much better than before. I was in pain almost all day every day before my surgery and then after it was like night and day... so little pain!
All the best to you with your surgery! Feel free to message me at my email if you have any other questions 🤗
@@MaddyA Great to hear!! thanks for the reply!
The good thing about my spine sort of like yours is that my surgeon does not have to fuse me too low either. More towards the center . I am pretty atheltic in the gym and with sports as much as can with my scoliosis obviously so i think that might help with the recovery.
Thats so great to hear that you have minimal pain. As you know when you had scoliosis some days are good and there are other days where no matter what you do your back just hurts like hell and is super sore.
My thinking is that even if I do have minimal pain with the surgery from doing the things that you listed, I wouldn't even think about doing them with my current back right now! I rather have a straight back that i don't have to be insecure about and deal with the 1 month of agony. But then I can move on and continue with my life.
Would you say your confidence increased after the fusion? Because i genuinely feel like once I see my back looking straight and somewhat normal I will be so so happy and be able to live a confident life instead of trying to hide my back with certain clothes and positions and what not. Its like its always in the back of my head. I can't wait to not have to deal with that anymore
Love your videos! Thanks again
I want a good doctor so badly too
My 12 year old daughter just got diagnosed with over 50 degree curve, hearing the suggestion of a surgery devastated us. Has anyone tried any of those modern braces for scolio that they offer now? Not the ones surgeons offer...
Braces weaken the muscles, its not a perfect solution. But surgery is way to early. I dont know what you did now, but I suggest you go to the ostepath. Find one, its important. Go swimming with your daughter, make her move more and touch her spine everyday and see how it moves. X rays will help. Sleep with the brace or only let her sleep on her back, its very important. But her a good matress. Take care, I hope everything is better now.
Thank you for sharing your story! I have moderate scoliosis in my mid back. It is effecting my breathing due to lung capacity. I also have lots of back pain. I’m seeing a neurologist this week to inquire about surgery. Can you please share your level mild, moderate, severe and symptoms? Thanks!
Hi! I really only experienced a lot of back pain. It got progressively worse over the years to a point where I couldn't stand for more than 30 minutes at a time. Because my curve was lower in my back, I didn't have any issues with breathing. I think I got a bit lucky in that sense.
@@MaddyA Thank you for taking time to respond. I had a scoliosis series and my scoliosis continues to be mild. My lungs are good, thank goodness. I have a herniated disc, in which I’m having corrected next week. As for the breathing, I am taking B12 vitamins, which helps a lot.
Stay well!
hey :)) i’m supposed to get the surgery (just not sure the date) and i’ve been wondering if it’s the right choice for me. this video helped me change my perspective on the surgery and i’m not excited- but i’m less nervous for what’s in store for me
i am glad to hear that :) even just a little less nervous is great! trust me when I say it is life changing!!
My daughter is 11 her top curve is 45.4 and her bottom is 37.6! We were just told today she needs surgery so I was trying to find something to show her to make her feel better cause she’s scared!
How old were you when you had your operation?
How was the pain afterwards and for how long?
How long before you could go back to sports?
What’s your range of motion like now? Are you stiff or are you able to move??
Hi Zeni! I can talk to her directly if she would like! We could do a video call if that is something both you and her are comfortable with. I can only imagine how overwhelmed she must feel. Send me an email - itsmemaddya@gmail.com
I was 14 turning 15. The pain was moderate, but with medication it was nearly non-existent. I spent most of my time sleeping so I didn't notice it much. It was more of an ache than sharp pain - it lasted only about 2 weeks after my operation. Swimming was allowed after 3 months, moderate and extremely low impact was 6 months, and regular sports a year. Range of motion is incredible... a little restricted - no twisting or anything but I am still quite flexible. Very little stiffness! I can't bend the part of my back that's fused but I don't feel limited at all.
Thank you for sharing !
Hey! I go there for my scoliosis! I have the best Scoli doctors in Canada! He’s really nice. Doctor fm I just got the full spine fusion.
I had scoliosis surgery 2 years ago
T10 -S1 fusion and L4 - S1 translumbar interbody fusion
I think is possible like you. 40 degrees C curb.
I was 55 . One of my screws broke 9 months later no worries I don't even knew at that moment I thought was my bones just pops 😅 I heard it.
I want to know if you have stiffness in you back . Does people notice that you have something different specialty when you walk?
So I never have paid in my back after surgery BUT the only time I have few minutes of pain is when I get up from bed But no in my back is in my sacral joint . I walk with my shoulders down people has to remind me to walk straight. I have 2 rods 18 screws
Thanks for you video
Please let me know how you doing
I am happy with my surgery I leave in pain for 33 years. Pinch nerve and muscle spasms all the time.
Hey! I know this is probably least of people concerns lol but was wondering if you remember the surgery making you taller? Love your positive energy!
Hey Allie! I grew about an inch and a half or so! Depending on how severe your curve is, you may or may not gain much height!
Hi Maddy, I would like to connect with you how you feel after spine surgery. Both of my girls diagnosed with severe scoliosis. They were really scared and didn’t want to do surgery. Scheduled surgery in early June 2024. Can you give me an advice? Did you happy or regret doing the surgery? Thanks
Hi, I’m 13 years old and a T1, T9 paraplegic. I got diagnosed with scoliosis 5 years ago. My curve is considered “severe” but my mom didn’t really want the surgery for me. I wear a back brace but the doctor says it is not helping at all at this point. We are considering surgery this summer and I’m REALLY nervous and scared. I was looking at videos about some people who’ve had the surgery and I found your video very helpful. Even though my situation is fairly different, I would like to ask you two questions: What are some activities that you couldn’t or can’t do because of surgery? And, did you think that it was worth it?
Hi Jamille! I am happy to answer your questions. At the end of the day, you need to make a decision that makes the most sense for you and your personal circumstances.
I was also a bit nervous for the surgery, but what I had to remind myself of was just how much this surgery would help me. I can still do everything I did pre-surgery, but now without pain and discomfort. I am slightly limited in how I bend my back, but I can still touch my toes, bend over, twist side to side, etc. Overall, not much changed besides how I felt day to day.
I 100% know that, for me, it was worth it. Having the surgery meant that I could go back to playing soccer without pain. I could sit and stand comfortably again, and I also gained a lot of confidence - scoliosis can become very visual, and it really affected my self-esteem. My quality of life significantly improved and I wouldn't have had it any other way. I think I am 6 or 7 years post op and I feel great!
I hope that helps a little bit :) Feel free to shoot me an email if you want to chat! Always happy to answer any other questions you have there: itsmemaddya@gmail.com
Any idea on how long they give you to pay for the surgery because that’s my greatest concern. I’ve been wanting to do this for years now and I’m almost 27. I feel like I’m losing my youth because I’m in pain all the time even though I exercise. If I wasn’t neglected as much as a child I would’ve never been in this situation to begin with.
I don't know - this would very much depend on where you have the surgery I suppose. I hope you are able to get the support you need!
Hi Mandy, Great Video and I’m really Happy you have been doing so good after a Major Surgery. I turn 62 Tomorrow and I have had 8 Surgery’s on my Back. I have 4 Fusions in my Neck and 2 in my Lower Back. Now I have developed Scoliosis, Spondiolisthesis ? And I have 4 Ruptured Discs. I also have a Pain Pump and now they want to add one of those kinda like a Tens Unit but it goes in your Spine and has a Disc thing that goes inside of you like the Pump. I am a Journeyman Electrician but I’m on Disability now. I’m hoping they will Fix my Scoliosis when they repair all the Disc. Anyway, I’m so glad you are doing well. I live with really bad Pain everyday. Do you have any Pain still? I’m just wondering if the Scoliosis Surgery might get me out of Pain. Even a little better would be really Great.
Hi! I am sorry to hear you've been dealing with main and ongoing challenges. I wish you well :)
I don't experience as much pain as I did before my surgery - most days I feel perfectly fine. My back does get stiff, but it's nothing a little stretching can't help with!
it’s crazy how you had your surgery on march 3rd because i’m having mine on march 2nd this year 😂
Thanks for sharing this. I love your enthusiasm. Since you invited us to ask questions, I'd like to know if the hardware will remain in your body for the rest of your life or if you plan to have it removed at a later date. Also, how painful was the recovery during the first month? And how has the spinal fusion affected your flexibility / mobility? Are you still able to bend, stretch, do any sports or dance without having pain?
Hi! Of course! I am happy to answer them :)
Yes, my rods and screws will remain in my body for the rest of my life. They only consider removing them if they cause problems and so far I have had no issues with them!
You're on a LOT of medication when you first have surgery. I don't remember the first few days because of it. The idea is to keep you comfortable for the first bit so you can rest and recover as much as you can before you leave the hospital. I personally did not experience pain per se. I experienced a bit of discomfort and pressure in my back, but besides that it was totally fine. Let me stress that this will be different for everyone but I was off my pain medication 2 weeks after my surgery. I didn't use the pain killers they gave me at the hospital either, I was just using Advil for those two weeks. Pain will be different for everyone but within the first month, I went from being uncomfortable/taking pain killers to feeling practically normal/no pain killers.
It has limited my flexibility a little bit but overall not much. I can still do everything I used to be able to do. The only thing is that my back doesn't bend as much as it used to. I don't experience any pain when I am exercising or dancing, or really doing anything. I do get a bit sore if I push myself to hard but that usually only happens when I do excessive bending/twisting/heavy lifting.
Hope that helps!
Thank you for this video. My scoliosis surgery is next week. I would like to ask you how did you get rid of the surgical effect of the operation?
You are welcome! What do you mean by the surgical effect?
@@MaddyA The wound mark
@@gaAlsa Ah! I didn't. I love my scar and think it is pretty cool. I know some people feel differently but I love that it tells a story. I hope your surgery goes well!
In 2016 I got diagnosed with scoliosis the first orthopedic doctor I went to told me I needed a brace because I wasn’t quite severe enough for surgery I did that for almost 2 years I hated it so much it hurt and didnt help so we got a second opinion he said wow your first doctor should have never suggested a brace you need surgery because I was 15 they made me wait a few months so my growth plates could finish growing in the meantime I went to the chiropractor a few times but then I had a spinal fusion that was 12 hrs long and the next day they wanted me to start walking I went home three days later and immediately started physical therapy and I did that off and on for two years the only reason I did physical therapy that long was because my joints and muscles weren’t used to my back being straight so that caused major issue that made me need to stay in physical therapy longer I don’t do physical therapy anymore but sometimes I still feel like I should because rarely I still have knee and hip pains
That is quite the journey - I am glad you were finally able to get the treatment you needed!
Hi, your story is similar to one of my daughter. Both of my daughters diagnosed with scoliosis. My eldest one is too late to do braces. Same with my second girl. The pediatric doctor recommended to do spine surgery. But some of the people like the chiropractors & some of my friends don’t recommend spine surgery because it’s very invasive especially my girls are still young. 18 & 13. Did you happy that you did a surgery? Or regret? How was your mobility? Can you still bend? My daughters love dancing and they are scared that after surgery, they will lose the mobility or be able to be flexible
@@LindsayTu no I do not regret the surgery I can’t go to chiropractors anymore now that I have the rods in my back however I had my surgery 6 years ago and since then there has been more research and better treatment plans like I know this one surgery they have materials that they use that allow the child to continue growing and not have to worry about more surgeries or anything like that but because of when I had my surgery I had to wait until I was done growing so I wouldn’t have to have more surgeries or anything my mobility is pretty much the same and no difference but I do still get joint pains and aches after doing to much physical activity which isn’t ideal but I work on it by continuing physical therapy but again since I’ve had my surgery there are a lot better options that allow kids to continue growing normally
@@PiperFrech Thank you so much for your reply. The girls will have second opinion next week. My 18 yos daughter felt anxious because she didn’t want to do surgery. She thinks she is fine and doesn’t need a surgery. Her chiropractor kinda giving her a hope that with proper treatment, the curve will get better. Is it true? If it’s true, then most scoliosis people will get chiro treatment that less invasive than doing surgery. May I ask, is it you or your parents who want to do surgery?
@@LindsayTu honestly if she’s already 18 and done growing there’s not much that will help the curve aside from a form of surgery and no it was not my parents choice it was my choice I hated the pain I hated the braces and having to sit out of my sports so even though the surgery and its recovery was really hard I wouldn’t have it any other way because even though I still have joint issues I have zero back problems and still have pretty much complete normal flexibility which is what I needed to keep doing the things I love
I've had sclouisis since I was a little girl I don't know of when it started bit I noticed it more and became more aware of it when my sister had sclouisis and she got spine fusion her whole spine was fused from her neck down to almost her butt. I my self have sclouisis and over the years my sclouisis got worse and I've been on pain management since 2015 due to my sclouisis pain and take pain pills. I was born early I have a alot of health issues, so that's why I have sclouisis.i haven't been to the back doctor in a very long time and I refuse to go the orthopedic doctor at this time
Hi - this vlog is from many years in the past but I just found it as a viewer almost a month post-op. Thank you for sharing! I also have a question, our fusions are very similar, mine is t9-l4 that went from 42 to 15 after surgery. How is your mobility? Are you able to do a yoga sumo squat?
Hello! Of course - always happy to share :) My mobility is pretty amazing. There are some limitations in terms of my rotation abilities and bending my back, but overall, I can move just as good as before. I felt quite stiff until 3 months post-op and then after that, I quickly started to loosen up! I can do a sumo squat, touch my toes, and do everything I did before! Cracking my back is a bit tough now that it is fused haha but the surgery only improved my overall quality of life!
I am scoliosis warrior too.
hey! i know this video isn’t very new but i’m hoping you can help me. i recently discovered i have scoliosis in the lower part of my back. i’m on the borderline, at about 38-40 degrees i think. at the moment, it’s an option for me to have surgery, however, if the curve gets worse it’s likely that i will need to have it. i’m really questioning surgery right now and watching videos like these really help. i’m quite squeamish so a big concern for me is probably stitches. i’ve only ever had dissolvable stitches in my mouth and even they were quite uncomfortable. in terms of the type of stitches they use, what happens? and was showering or putting on/wearing clothes an issue for you? i’m not very good with pain so i’m not sure how i’ll go in general, i just can’t tolerate things like stitches and open wounds and things. also did you ever feel any stinging in the area where they cut? or was it almost like it was completely sealed ? also, are there any tips you can give to someone who has a lot of anxiety surrounding surgeries? thank you so much. it’s comforting to see relevant and newer blog type videos about scoliosis so thank you for taking your time to film this, it really helps :)
Hey meg! send me an email and we can chat there! my email is itsmemaddya@gmail.com
Got diagnosed with scoliosis this year (18yo) too late for back brace, 25 degree...
I have back pain like hell and still can't go for surgery...
Any suggestions?!?
I’m on my way to the hospital to get the surgery now !
Good luck!!
@@MaddyA thanks ! it went really well 100% worth it
@@AM-cf4dn That's AMAZING! I am so happy for you 😊
Got my call for surgery today. What is your range of motion after surgery?? Thanks for sharing !:)
I am fortunately just as flexible as I was before. My mobility is a little limited in terms of rotation from side to side - i also can't bend the part of my back that is fused but that's to be expected when there is a metal rod in there lol
Overall though, it's not too bad! Good luck with your surgery!
@@MaddyA thanks so much for the reply:) it sounds like you can still twist a bit! That is good to hear:)
you just honestly such a VIBE lmao
I have scoliosis and I'm just 14. I live in Bangladesh and here most of the people don't know what scoliosis is. My curve is like 67 degrees and doctor told that i have to do surgery. Now me and my family is super worried because it's risky though😢
How is your range of motion? My surgeon is talking about moving forward and I'm scared of physical limitations
I will start by saying I had L3-T10 ish fused - only about 6 vertebrae. My range of motion is pretty great! It is important to note there is a difference between flexibility and mobility. I can bend over and touch my toes because I am flexible. I can do a hula hoop motion with my hips just fine because I have mobility. I specifically can't bend the section of my spine that is fused. So if I try to do the cobra yoga move... it hurts and it does not work. Certain movements don't work because of the fusion, but I have not found an activity that I can't do because of it! It's all about learning how you move!
poor baby is too young to be in pain. Im 41 and its whatever I am in pain but thats what happens sometimes when your in your 40s. But I hate seeing a young person going through this ughhh
got surgery on the 18th next month and all i really care about is that im off school for a few weeks 🤣
haha it was the same for me! i was in high school at the time and was so stressed about missing school! my pain was okay though so i went back after 2 weeks - definitely important to prioritize recovery and listening to your body!
I had surgery for scoliosis on my birthday in 2019 😣
I mean maybe not ideal timing but a great gift... a straight spine was all i wanted haha
I guess..
Thanks. How is your experience related to your mobility? If I may, where did you take your surgery and who was your surgeon?
@@scofficial5808 hellooo my mobility is almost normal but only because I didn’t get fused all the way down to the bottom of my hips and to the top of my neck. My doctor decided to keep my hips curve the way it was so I wouldn’t lose much mobility in my legs (I am so thankful to him for that). I live in Ireland so I went to the cappah hospital in Dublin. Hope this helps :)
Thank you for sharing your experience, it is truly inspiring! After your surgery, have you ever felt any more back pain? I am in a very similar situation, and I am trying to weigh my options :)
I’m getting scoliosis surgery next month I’m 13 and love sports but it hurts me so bad and I don’t like scars or really intense pain and I have a phobia of needles never even got my blood drawn before so I’m absolutely terrified
It's totally okay to be scared! Honestly though, the surgery is life changing. Within the first month of having my surgery I felt good as new! Your doctors will make sure you are comfortable and in as little pain as possible. Do your best to "reframe" your perspective - scars show strength rather than weaknesses, they are unique to you. Everything you are going to go through contributes to you getting better. Take it one step at a time! It will be okay :)
I noticed you had it done at Children's Hospital, was your surgeon Dr Reilly ?
No I didn't have Dr. Reilly, though I heard he was incredible!
Holy oof, I was just looking at my back and it pretty bad. I’m going to a appointment next week and I don’t want my doctor telling me bad news about my back;(
Its not bad news... its just news! perspective is really important. Good luck to you!
After surgery can we play games or sports because my daughter suffered from scoliosis and now she is 9 years old.
Yes! Taking time to recover is important, but I found I was ready to get back into sports around 6 months post-op! i have had no limitations in what i can participate in :) Wishing her all the best
How long did your actual surgery take??
I’ve had a spinal fusion just like your but my back muscles seem to not work anymore. Never had this issue before surgery.
Do uk what this is ? Or what’s going on?
I am sorry to hear that! I don't know what this is... I didn't experience anything like that. I was stiff for a while and had trouble moving in the first week after my surgery. I would encourage you to chat with your surgeon about this!
Do you feel tightness ( feels like wearing brace ) in your back ? I had my scoliosis surgery three months ago as well .... I have a lot of stiffness or tightness in my back
I don't feel any tightness anymore. From what I remember, my tightness really only lasted about a couple months... I felt back to normal by month three. Everybody's recovery will be different but if you're concerned/curious you should always reach out to your doctor!
Thanks Antam. At which region you had your curvature and do you remember the discs that were fused?
That chiropractor is pretty bad. I have congenital kyphoscoliosis(at birth) and mine said you have a spine deformity before saying hi 🤣. I don't qualify for correction surgery cause my kyphosis is pretty much compromise my nerves
Glad yours was on top of it haha!
Hi Maddy
My daughter is 14 years old and we just found out she has scoliosis and her curve is is 50 which I already had two specialist look at her and they both suggested surgery, But her Pediatrician suggested to wait on surgery cuz she is young still. The specialist said she is done growing according to her X-rays. I’m so torn apart which way to go about? As a mother I want to make the best decision for her!
Hi Lorena!
If it brings you any comfort, I was 14 turning 15 when I had my surgery done. My doctors were more concerned about my growth than they were how young I was. If the specialists say your daughter is done growing and they recommend surgery, I think trusting their expertise is the best choice. The surgery will be life changing for your daughter... trust me when I say it is like night and day! At the end of the day it is up to you and your daughter, but her surgeons/specialist best understand her needs and the ways they can support her :) Hopefully that helps!
Glowing
What are some examples of things that are difficult to do bc of you surgery? I am in my boston brace but Idk if it's going to work so I'm rlly nervous that I'm going to have to get a surgery.
Honestly nothing! I mean I can't do a back bend or anything like that haha. My rotation is a little limited but besides that, I can do anything so long as it doesn't cause pain. It will be different for everyone of course but the surgery was the best thing that happened to me. Don't be afraid of surgery :) It is so worth it!
@@MaddyA thank u so much, that makes me feel a lot better
I love your vibe
Does your spinal nerves also had a issue because of scoliosis and how many hours it take for your surgery and in how many months you Fully recover, because I have to also undergo this surgery within 20_25 days . Please help
I had no issues with my spinal cord or nerves. The surgery was about 6 hours. I felt better within the first few months but full recovery took a year (the time it takes for the bone to grow). Do not worry! It will be okay ☺️
This title oh my god
Hi ..i am too late to discover my scoliosis...now iam26 years old
I have consulted a surgeon who decided for me a surgery with out any discussion about my case and this made me worried..
Then I have visited a physical therapist who advised me to have sessions with them especially i don't suffer any problems with my breathing nor walking, and the flexibility of my body very well...
I decided to have those sessions to relieve my pains and improve the shape, but still afraid in the future
What will happen with my poor spine
I have s scoliosis by 52° &60°
Can you help me for more consultation ?
Thanks
I
Hi! Unfortunately I am not suited to offer any medical advice. I can only speak from my personal experience. I would encourage you to talk with your doctors and see what makes most sense for you. All the best!
Hello.I have scoliosis since 15 years old.Now I'm in 31..My degree of scoliosis is 66 up and 55 lower back.Jist think if its to late for operation. My doctor offer me operation but I'm scared and I just want some support if I have to do it or just stay like this..
Hey! That looks live Vancouver!!!
It sure is Vancouver!
i just had my surgery a couple days ago and i just got back home a couple hours ago. the only thing im struggling with is trying to get out of my bed by myself, thankfully i have a very high pain tolerance so i can get out of bed without cringing super hard; but does anybody have any tips on how to get out of bed correctly without messing up the surgery?
Glad to hear you have made it back home! After my surgery, I was pretty stiff, so my movement was a bit limited. To get out of bed, I would roll onto my side and carefully push myself up. It was a slow process haha! It usually worked - if not I would crawl out of bed onto the floor lol
Hi, may I know what are the limitations after surgery? Do you feel painful daily?
Hi! I have very few limitations and I don’t regularly feel pain if any at all! My mobility is slightly inhibited but by such an insignificant amount. Honestly its as if my back is not fused. I can pretty much do everything i did before but without pain!
I had my spine surgery for my vertebrae fracture,for which plate n screw are attached on T12 n L1 vertebrae.Do u feel ur plate or screw and what is the life of these implants ,..I know my case is different but just asking if u hav any lead to it
Hi! Hope you are healing well :) I don't feel them at all and for me, they will be in me for life. They will be with me for as long as I live!
Did you find out what levels were fused? It looks like it might have gone to L3 or L4? Thanks so much!
Hi! I believe my surgeon only went to L4 to try and maximize my mobility!
I’m having spine fusion tomorrow 🙈
wishing you all the best with surgery! it is so worth it :)
How did it go? I've got mine in about a year x
@@isabelkirk3832 thanks. What is your experience about mobility and pain? Where did you take your surgery and who was your surgeon?
I have scoliosis i had surgery in 1984
did you use anything to help your scar heal so well?
nothing! I just let it do its thing! once it was healed though any time i was in the sun i would put zinc mineral sunscreen on it to protect it from burning... the skin was so sensitive and fresh
@@MaddyA would laser treatment and bio oil work? I'm like super self conscious already due to my anorexia
@@stxr2893 i have heard vitamin e oil can be very helpful for scars, same as bio oil, but I didn't use either so I'm going off of what i have heard from others. laser may work - you would have to look into it. scars are beautiful, we may feel differently, but scars don't change who you are ♥ best of luck with everything!
@@MaddyA thanks. How many tubes are in you after the surgery? I'm needle phobic and have panic attack at just the sight or thought of any cannula or iv so if I drink water can they remove the iv?
I really appreciate it. I have 22 degree of sideway curve in spine simply it means moderate scoliosis. This video really motivated me.
Please share any of your other external contact, can be Instagram and any.
@@ahmadshahkingkhan4726 You are always welcome to email me - my email address is in the description of every video.
Can you bend and arch you back, can you exercise like do crunches?
I can bend the upper part of spine (the unfused part) but where the rods and screws are is immobile. I can exercise no problem! Certain things are really challenging or uncomfortable so I tend to avoid movements that require a lot of twisting/bending.
I just found out I have scoliosis on 5th april2021, I have an appointment on 11th march 2021 to take xrays and talk about my scoliosis, since I am really skinny my spine shows a bit through my skin and my curve is not a small one for sure, I'm personally really scared and scared if I need an operation and it goes horrible like not being able to move my legs or waking up in the middle of surgery etc,and it does kinda make sense why I'm scared since I have NEVER had surgery but what are the pros and cons of surgery and if u had physical therapy or a brace what are the pros and cons if these? I hope u answer!
Hi! I am so sorry I thought I responded to your comment! You do not need to be afraid! These surgeries are quite common and pretty low risk :) It depends on your personal situation but you really don't need to be afraid! Your doctors will take care of you!
@@MaddyA hey ty for replying! Turns out I have a 47° curve at only 13, doctor said I'll wear a brace for 6 months then ill go in October to schedule surgery or wear the brace for 3 more months, love your vids and stay safe💖
@@loujinmohamed8994 Dang thats quite the curve! That's great to hear you've got a plan :) all the best with your surgery!
@@MaddyA thank youuu💖💖
just found out my 29 degree curve went to a 65 degree curve, how much taller did you get?
Not as much as I thought actually! I gained about 3/4 of an inch? Maybe an inch total?
Mam!.. I m also suffering from scoliosis since birth.. 😣can it be cure by doing exercise or i have to go with the surgery?😥pls reply.. Eagerly waiting!
Hi! Scoliosis can't really be cured by exercising because it is a bone deformity + muscular issues (at least in my case thats what it was). Surgery is the most practical option. Go see your doctor and see what they recommend! Everyone is different and will have different needs. Don't be afraid of surgery though... it truly is life changing... for the better!
@@MaddyA thank you so much 🤗u have given me the confidence!n if surgery then how much time it take to recover..?i dont know why.. But im little bit nervous for the surgery 😣
@@janhavi5760 Within 2 weeks I was off my pain medication and was out and about doing my thing. At 3 months I felt amazing! Everyone is different but it is surprising how quickly you heal from it. Keep in mind you aren'y allowed intense physical activity for a while so that your spine can fully heal! Being nervous is totally normal! It can be scary but I guess what helped me was knowing that my quality of life was going to improve so much and that I had a great team of doctors. I am always happy to chat via email if you have any other concerns :)
I have scoliosis and I think am going to have surgery am 23 any advice
if there is anything in particular you want to know please ask :) otherwise good luck with your surgery! it is well worth!
At what age did you have your surgery?
I was 14 turning 15!
did your height change after fusion?
Yup! I grew about an inch
This is the back fixing machine the ASMI: goodback.co.uk/2021/04/04/scoliosis/
Did u grow after the surgery
Yes I did! Just about an inch.
What was the curve of your scoliosis before surgery M
Oh gosh I can't remember the exact number but my upper curve was around 13 degrees and the lower curve was about 45 degrees? Something like that!
Your surgery was mostly to correct the lower curve right? We just discovered my scoliosis a year ago and I'm 30.. at first my lumbar was 11 degrees , now its jumped to 17 over the last year. Recently started PT so hope that helps strengthen me. Very weird overall. I went my whole life w no problems and only now gets discovered @@MaddyA
What was your previous height how much u grew up to
I was 5 ft 7 inches prior to surgery and gained 1 inch (~2.5 cm)!
Can you share your surgery cost if it's not burdening you?
Fortunately here is Canada healthcare is practically free (if you have insurance). I was incredibly lucky because my family didn’t have to pay anything for my surgery - I am forever grateful for that.
@@MaddyA i see, thank you for the disclosure.
What was your degree ?
I am getting a BSc in Food, Nutrition, and Health alongside a Masters in Management (through the B+MM program).
Hey I go there for my scoliosis what doctor do you have
Hi Grace! I won't say his name just out of respect for his privacy but all the surgeons at Children's are great!
Yes my doctor is the best doctor
If your doctor was doctor myianji that’s mine to !
Hey did you have the spinal fusion surgery? I was the first one in Canada to get the magic rod!
I have scoliosis
Can I get your doctor's info please
Hi Wendy! For his privacy I won't share it on here but if you are need of an appointment of some kind, reach out to your family doctor and they can get you a referral!
I had almost the same story
Who was your Surgeon?
Dr. R. Ghag! He is just one of the many amazing surgeons at BC children’s hospital!