Scoliosis Support Group

My 13 yo daughter has been scheduled for scoliosis surgery on May 31st. We have not talked to the actual surgeon yet, but I would like to do as much research as possible before we see him. I'm a surgical nurse and have seen the extensive surgeries that these kids go through, but never see the final results or even the residual results years later. She went from 48degree thoracic in May 2011 to 57degrees February 2012. Surgery is suggested, and she was told that the sooner it is done, the easier for 0 degree correction. She is not having any pain from the condition now and is very active in sports. I question if surgery should be done now if there is no symptoms, or should she wait until she graduates and take the chance of less flexibility causing the surgery and recovery time to be harder? Also, I have not been able to find any information on patients who had the surgery as a teen and how they are fairing as adults.

I was ten years old when they found I had scoliosis. I had a 42 degree angle in my upper back. That was september 1995. By december 1995 it had changed to 67 degrees at the top as well as a 22 degree angle at the lower back. The operated that december. They mangaed to get a 22 degree at the top and a 12 degree at the bottom.

I would say by looking at how fast it can get so much worse, sooner you can have the operstoin the better.

I have always had pain, I dont expect that to ever change... I know for some people its not so bad. Personally I feel lucky.... Ive seen many people worse off... Im 26 by the way... I happy to share with you anything you would like to know. Im happy to try to help.... I hope all goes well with your daughter.

Thought you might find this link helpful-

http://www.medtronic.co.uk/your-health/scoliosis/personal- stories/amanda/index.htm

Have had a slight scoliosis in my back for a long time- first diagnosed at the age of 15 soon after seeing a chiropractor for bad back- had an x-ray which confirmed the scoliosis. Have not had surgery to correct this or had another xray since that day. Have had problems with back since the age of 15 up until present day yet think the fibro compounds the pains in back, for sure.

Am hoping all will go well for your daughter plus will keep you both in my prayers.

Famous individual to have a back operation on her scoliosis as a teenager was Princess Beatrice from the British Royal Family- all went totally fine for her.

You take most excellent care of You.

Warmest wishes, Clarita