From: bounce-scoliosis To: scoliosis-digest@ai.mit.edu Subject: scoliosis V1 #1131 Reply-To: Errors-To: bounce-scoliosis Precedence: bulk scoliosis Saturday, 13 March 1999 Volume 01 : Number 1131 Today's subjects for scoliosis, scoliosis-medical, scoliosis-child and scoliosis-teens: Detecting Scoliosis in Children ["Jim and Sue Martin" ] Re: Scoliosis and exercise [Larry and Elaine Murphy ] Re: Just wanted to inform you.... [RSMVMD@aol.com] Sea Cucumber Extract [Richard Lethin ] Re: Sea Cucumber Extract [CarolPerk@aol.com] Backpack after surgery [Penina Freedenberg ] [none] ["Martha Lopez" ] Re: anterior fuisons [Lindylxg@aol.com] Re: Backpack after surgery [SLY0813@aol.com] Re: [stephanie demblon ] Re: Scoliosis and Osteoporosis [Lindi Meadows ] Re: [DANCER6130@aol.com] Re: [DANCER6130@aol.com] anterior fuisons [Jrstack145@aol.com] Tell your daughter to wear her brace. [Jrstack145@aol.com] Fwd: anterior fuisons [Jrstack145@aol.com] me [ETheroux@aol.com] Re: Tell your daughter to wear her brace. ["Martha Lopez" ] Social Security [ianjan ] Chiropractic Care ["Sherri" ] Re: [RSMVMD@aol.com] antibiotics and infections [Beichler68@aol.com] re:bathing suits [Beichler68@aol.com] Dr. Dean [Beichler68@aol.com] Re: me [Smokejell@aol.com] Re: me [Leah640@aol.com] Re: Tell your daughter to wear her brace. [Leah640@aol.com] Re: Kelly's surgery on 3/12 [Larry and Elaine Murphy ] Re: Tell your daughter to wear her brace. ["Patricia A. Cherry" Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 06:34:06 -0500 Subject: Detecting Scoliosis in Children Is it possible that we do not hear about scoliosis research and the effect of chiropractic or even osteopathic, due to the AMA and its own inbred versions of what is accepted as scientific research? It has only been in recent years that Doctors of Osteopathy, have been accepted by the medical community as equals, or at least near equals. The osteopathic manipulations that they do, are quietly accepted, as one might accept a slightly off kilter second cousin. Doctors of Chiropractic, unfortunately, have a ways further to go on the medical acceptance scale. However, they do seem to be making progress. It was not that long ago that Optometric Doctors were shunned by their medical doctor great fathers in the field of ophthalmology. However, these days you can often find them working side by side. What should matter most is what works for the individual. Unfortunately, in this day of managed health care, primary care physicians, and "health maintenance organizations", the patient does not come first. What comes first are the pockets of the big corporate insurance companies and some individual docs who make much more money then they are worth. On a separate tangent, this has been my own personal experience, as an individual with congenital scoliosis, with Doctors of Chiropractic. The first D.C. that I worked with, an idealistic individual, fresh out of D.C. school, tried to convince me that there was no such thing as congenital scoliosis, and that I could be "cured". I left after our first visit on top of the world! There was hope that I could stand tall and walk straight, just like everyone else. Well after about six months of intensive treatment, I began to realize that perhaps this individual D.C. was a bit of a zealot. My hopes were not entirely shattered, however, the reality of "all men are created equal", could not apply to all D.C.'s, just as well as it could not be applied to all M.D.'s., or any other professional. Since that time I have found some very high, and some very low levels of scoliosis expertise within the chiropractic field. The very high level individuals, have for the most part, overshadowed the low, and my overall impression of chiropractic remains favorable. Unfortunately, I am currently living in a very rural area, and have not found a high level of expertise in relation to scoliosis. My current insurance will not cover chiropractic, unless it has been referred to by my "primary care physician" Fortunately, I have found an osteopath that I have confidence in, and has provided a great deal of relief of pain in his manipulations. There is also no indication or expectation that he will "correct" my congenital scoliosis. Enough rambling. Thanks, Jim smartin@downeast.net Visit us at: http://w2.downeast.net/jimandsue ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: Kate Hauer Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 07:22:59 -0600 Subject: Yoga instructors -Reply to find an Iyengar yoga teacher, you could check the website for IYNAUS, the association of Iyengar yoga teachers. They have a listing of certified Iyengar teachers which also gives the location of the teachers. ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: Larry and Elaine Murphy Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 08:37:03 -0500 Subject: Re: Scoliosis and exercise Karen, If you get the exercises from Mark, could you pas then on to me also? Thanks, - -- Larry and Elaine Murphy; Oscoda, Mi. ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: shih Date: Thu, 11 Mar 1999 19:47:29 -0600 Subject: Re: Xrays Please, whoever administer this email group, take my name out of the email address! I don't want to receive any email in this group anymore. Thanks Jerry my email address shihs@swbell.net ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: RSMVMD@aol.com Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 10:05:05 EST Subject: Re: Just wanted to inform you.... In a message dated 3/11/99, 11:58:20 PM, delirium@getaway.net writes: .... _WHere_ do you put the noodle or the pool dumbell so you can do crunches without drowning? (WHat is a pool dumbell, anyway? Heavy or light-weight?) - --hmc.>> hmc, The noodle centers in the mid-back, and curves around. Then, acting like a floation device I do what sort of looks like sit-ups in the water. The pool dumbells look basicly like land dumbells; however, they have practicely no weight to them (the combination of the "weight" of the water, the floation value of the dumbells, and pushing against gravity give them their "weight"). To do the crunches, the dumbells are put under ones arms, in their armpits. As an aside, you will find that almost any (for no other better word, I'll say pool exercise "add-ons") float and therefore keep you from drowning. This includes noodles, dumpbells, kickboards, and floation belts. I hope this makes sence. You really have to see it to totally understand :-) ! Richard S. Maryland (about 30 miles outside of Washington, DC) ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: Richard Lethin Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 10:18:14 -0500 Subject: Sea Cucumber Extract There are some number of people who say that injections of sea cucumber extract can stop the progression of scoli if not actually reverse it. There are very few studies either way. Please contact me if you would like to purchase some sea cucumber extract. I am putting together a fund to be able to make a scuba trip to Mexico to collect them. ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: CarolPerk@aol.com Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 10:14:06 EST Subject: Re: Sea Cucumber Extract L.O.L. You know some one will take you seriously! ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: Penina Freedenberg Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 11:25:11 -0500 (EST) Subject: Backpack after surgery My daughter (15) is having surgery in June, and I was just wondering if/when she would be able to carry a backpack on her back. I'm talking about a heavy one with school books or a lighter one for hiking etc. Penina ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: "Martha Lopez" Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 11:26:43 -0500 Subject: [none] This is a multi-part message in MIME format. - ------=_NextPart_000_0098_01BE6C7B.35213AE0 Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" Content-Transfer-Encoding: quoted-printable Can anyone tell me at what degree do doctors begin to seriously discuss = surgery? My daughter age 12 has a 41 degree curve and they have already = begun to discuss surgery. If you look at her, you could never tell that = she has such a big curve. She is still extremely active and her = breathing is fine too. How many different opionions would you all = recommend I get before settling for surgery? At the beginning she was doing just fine her curve went down from 31 = degrees to 26 (when she was serious about wearing her brace). Then shot = up again to 36 then down again to about 30 (when she began wearing the = brace again) and now she's at 41 (she has stopped wearing her brace, = AGAIN!!!). Her doctors keep telling her that she has extremely flexible = bones. Is this good or bad? She is currently 5"4" and all of her = growth centers are wide open. Martha - ------=_NextPart_000_0098_01BE6C7B.35213AE0 Content-Type: text/html; charset="iso-8859-1" Content-Transfer-Encoding: quoted-printable
Can anyone tell me at what degree do = doctors=20 begin to seriously discuss surgery?  My daughter age 12 has a 41 = degree=20 curve and they have already begun to discuss surgery.  If you look = at her,=20 you could never tell that she has such a big curve.  She is still = extremely=20 active and her breathing is fine too.  How many different opionions = would=20 you all recommend I get before settling for surgery?
 
At the beginning she was doing just = fine her=20 curve went down from 31 degrees to 26 (when she was serious about = wearing her=20 brace).  Then shot up again to 36 then down again to about 30 (when = she=20 began wearing the brace again) and now she's at 41 (she has stopped = wearing her=20 brace, AGAIN!!!).  Her doctors keep telling her that she has = extremely=20 flexible bones.  Is this good or bad?  She is currently = 5"4"=20 and all of her growth centers are wide open.
 
 
Martha
- ------=_NextPart_000_0098_01BE6C7B.35213AE0-- ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: Lindylxg@aol.com Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 12:02:13 EST Subject: Re: anterior fuisons I am also in the process of gathering information regarding surgical options for my daughter. In checking through the internet I was very interested in the "Minimally Invasive Anterior Surgury being done by Dr. Blackman who pratices at Childrens Hospital and Kaiser in Oakland, CA. You should inquire with them. ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: SLY0813@aol.com Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 13:21:43 EST Subject: Re: Backpack after surgery My daughter, Meagan, had her surgery last June (98) and when school started back in August I "made" her use a backpack that I found that was on wheels. Similar to the luggage on wheels but it looked more like a duffel bag or backpack. I thought it was pretty "cool" but she didn't really like it. She said the kids made fun of it/her and that the wheels squeaked!! She survived though and I certainly felt better knowing she wasn't lugging a heavy backpack around school. She lasted until after Christmas with the bag on wheels and then insisted on going back to a regular backpack. I bought her a real sturdy L. L. Bean backpack with really wide shoulder straps. She is doing fine with it and the doctor is fine with it too. I cringe though everytime I see her throw that huge backpack on and head off for school. She says I'm just being overprotective as usual . . .! Stacey from Texas ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: stephanie demblon Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 19:49:29 +0100 Subject: Re: Hello Martha, I'm writing you from Belgium,I'm 23 years old. My scoliosis is 30° and I have a lot of pain with it ! I just came back today from 2 weeks of hospital (tractions and brace). I'm still VERY flexible at 23,so my ortho. gave me a Cheneau brace (mean a corrective one),like the brace for kids.And it's possible because of my flexibility ! The correction is almost 100% with the brace. So,now,I have to wear my brace and wait... BUT,if I decide in few months or few years that the brace is to boring for me,my ortho. is agree to make a surgery. I'm not a doc. but I have been told that the limit for surgery is a 40° curvature... Maybe I'm not right,but when the brace work so well with your daughter it will be a mistake to make a surgery without trying again the brace.For the surgery she's flexible so she has a lot of chance,and a lot of time too,she's only 12... But I know how it can be difficult for a teen to understand all those things... If you have some questions,you can write me to my private e-mail : stephanie.demblon@skynet.be I wish you the best,take care stephanie > Can anyone tell me at what degree do doctors begin to seriously >discuss surgery? My daughter age 12 has a 41 degree curve and they have >already begun to discuss surgery. If you look at her, you could never > ... ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: Lindi Meadows Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 13:46:05 -0500 Subject: Re: Scoliosis and Osteoporosis Kelli, Why did you have your fusions cut through? That sounds dangerous. Was this a revision surgery? Sorry to sound so ignorant, but I'm not familiar with the concept of cutting through fusions....is that part of what is accomplished during a revision? Thanks, Lindi Atlanta, GA At 06:22 PM 3/11/1999 EST, you wrote: > > Hello Jennifer, >Do you know if this has any relation to how fusions heal? My fusions are > ... cut >through. However, I know people whos fusions were'nt that successful or that >have other problems. I would appretiate any information in this area. >Take care and god bless... > ... ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-medical-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: DANCER6130@aol.com Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 14:52:07 EST Subject: Re: yeah they start surgery at around 50-60 it depends on the doctor some even start at 40 i am 12 years old and i have a 47 degree curverture how old is your daughter????? ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: DANCER6130@aol.com Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 14:55:15 EST Subject: Re: surgery usually starts at around 40-60 degrees i have a 47 degree urverture and i will not get the surgery for a while. Heck! they never even started talking about it i guess it depends on the doctor!!! ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: Jrstack145@aol.com Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 16:16:31 EST Subject: anterior fuisons I've been monitoring this list for a while, and am surprised that there are so many people out there that are having problems, once their scoliosis has been corrected via surgery. My scoliosis was detected at around age 12-13, but being a boy and since mostly it was thought that girls have scoliosis, nothing was done. It was not until I was 18 that and ortho finally said that If I had come to him earlier I could have been treted effectively with a Milwaukee Brace. Sunsequent I began having problems, and pain and returned to Dr. M. Neuwirth( he operated on Gloria Estefan) who indicated surgery. Needless to say he scared the *&%&^*&^%) out of me, but I went and got 4 more opinions before feeling comfortable with another doc. Eight years ago next week I had and Anterior fusion with Zielke instrumentation. To date all is fine, I have since been married, had three kid, (the first was conceived post-surgery, and we call him our brace baby. Has anyone else had Zielke instrumentation? I haven't heard of many. Maybe the reason is the type of curve. ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: Jrstack145@aol.com Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 16:17:47 EST Subject: Tell your daughter to wear her brace. You have the proof yourself....... With the brace her curve decreases. Without it it increases. Seems like an easy decision to me. Stuart NY ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: Jrstack145@aol.com Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 16:19:29 EST Subject: Fwd: anterior fuisons This is a multi-part message in MIME format. - --part0_921273570_boundary Content-ID: <0_921273570@inet_out.mail.aol.com.1> Content-type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII In a message dated 99-03-12 16:16:31 EST, Jrstack145 writes: << Subj: anterior fuisons Date: 99-03-12 16:16:31 EST From: Jrstack145 To: scoliosis@ai.mit.edu I've been monitoring this list for a while, and am surprised that there are so many people out there that are having problems, once their scoliosis has been corrected via surgery. My scoliosis was detected at around age 12-13, but being a boy and since mostly it was thought that girls have scoliosis, nothing was done. It was not until I was 18 that and ortho finally said that If I had come to him earlier I could have been treted effectively with a Milwaukee Brace. He reccommended surgery then a cast for 6 months. My parents said forget about it. Subsequent I began having problems, and pain and returned to Dr. M. Neuwirth( he operated on Gloria Estefan) who indicated surgery. Needless to say he scared the *&%&^*&^%) out of me, but I went and got 4 more opinions before feeling comfortable with another doc. Eight years ago next week I had and Anterior fusion with Zielke instrumentation. To date all is fine, I have since been married, had three kid, (the first was conceived post-surgery, and we call him our brace baby. Has anyone else had Zielke instrumentation? I haven't heard of many. Maybe the reason is the type of curve. Stuart NY - --part0_921273570_boundary Content-ID: <0_921273570@inet_out.mail.aol.com.2> Content-type: message/rfc822 Content-transfer-encoding: 7bit Content-disposition: inline From: Jrstack145@aol.com Return-path: To: scoliosis@ai.mit.edu Subject: anterior fuisons Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 16:16:31 EST Mime-Version: 1.0 Content-type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII Content-transfer-encoding: 7bit I've been monitoring this list for a while, and am surprised that there are so many people out there that are having problems, once their scoliosis has been corrected via surgery. My scoliosis was detected at around age 12-13, but being a boy and since mostly it was thought that girls have scoliosis, nothing was done. It was not until I was 18 that and ortho finally said that If I had come to him earlier I could have been treted effectively with a Milwaukee Brace. Sunsequent I began having problems, and pain and returned to Dr. M. Neuwirth( he operated on Gloria Estefan) who indicated surgery. Needless to say he scared the *&%&^*&^%) out of me, but I went and got 4 more opinions before feeling comfortable with another doc. Eight years ago next week I had and Anterior fusion with Zielke instrumentation. To date all is fine, I have since been married, had three kid, (the first was conceived post-surgery, and we call him our brace baby. Has anyone else had Zielke instrumentation? I haven't heard of many. Maybe the reason is the type of curve. - --part0_921273570_boundary-- ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: ETheroux@aol.com Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 16:23:50 EST Subject: me Hi Gang, April 6 will be my first anniversary since my revision surgery to replace pedicle screws with something a little strong....the original ones fell out (the new and improved model). October 6 this past year was my first anniversary of the original surgery. I am doing excellent. My curves were 75 degrees (thorasic) and 103 degrees (lumbar) and now 50 degrees and 71 degrees, respectively. I lost 3 ribs to reduce a rib hump and the doc used the ribs to fuse 4 vertebrae for a total of 7 in my lumbar region. I have a Danek (CD) double rods that go from T-4 to L-5 with wires and 3 pedicle screws that are in the lumbar region. I went back to work 6 weeks after surgery (original) (I am a secretary) and then at the end of the week after revision surgery (Mon, went back to work Friday). The first time I was on the table for 13 hours of surgery, to untwist a calcium-deficient spine, the second was just a couple of hours. I was in the hospital for one week and one week in rehab. Then 4 weeks at home. Today I had a 6 month checkup with an x-ray and all looks great. I have tons of flexibility, can even touch my toes, the only thing just bouts can do is lay on my stomach and watch TV, little arch. ....so who cares, My life has improved 200% and life is better at 42 in May. POSITIVE ATTITUDE AND FAITH! Liz Theroux Good Luck to those making a decision and those going in. xo ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: "Martha Lopez" Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 17:06:54 -0500 Subject: Re: Tell your daughter to wear her brace. Stuart: In the event that you didn't thoroughly read my questions, I asked at what degree do doctors usually discuss surgery!!! My daughter has a 41 degree curve and they've already begun to discuss surgery. I also asked whether her being flexible was good or bad and how many opinions would you get before settling for surgery. Those were my questions! Martha - -----Original Message----- From: Jrstack145@aol.com To: scoliosis@ai.mit.edu Date: Friday, March 12, 1999 4:29 PM Subject: Tell your daughter to wear her brace. > >You have the proof yourself....... > > ... ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: "Martha Lopez" Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 17:39:07 -0500 Subject: Re: My daughter is 12 years old. Did you get the surgery yet? If not, how long does your doctor usually wait before recommending surgery? Are you active? If so, what sports are you into? My daughter is heavily into basketball and her chiropractor just recommended that she discontinue playing. He feels that the pressure of all the running is harmful. This is killing her because she loves the sport. - -----Original Message----- From: DANCER6130@aol.com To: scoliosis@ai.mit.edu Date: Friday, March 12, 1999 3:14 PM Subject: Re: > >yeah they start surgery at around 50-60 it depends on the doctor some even >start at 40 i am 12 years old and i have a 47 degree curverture how old is > ... ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: ianjan Date: Sat, 13 Mar 1999 10:11:41 -0800 Subject: Social Security Hi everyone, This email is on behalf of Dottie who used to be a member of this digest. Dottie has had to stop working because of her scoliosis and is trying to get social security disability. Dottie lives in Texas and would love to hear from anyone who can give her some hints on how you deal with the relevant authority to get the social security. Any advice or help that anyone can give Dottie would be greatly appreciated. Please email her direct on: gentleman1@buz.net Many thanks, Ian the Aussie ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: "Sherri" Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 18:43:34 -0500 Subject: Chiropractic Care Re: Chiropractic Care Here is information on the chiropractic care provided under the Copes Program. This program involves other treatment, too. The information included here only focuses on the chiropractic part of the treatment. This treatment is performed by a "Copes-trained" chiropractor and might be of interest to those wondering about the chiropractic care provided in the Copes program. Areas addressed: 1. Osseous: Bone changes Growth problems 2. Biomechemical : Increase in ligamentous flexibility Curve structure deformities Decrease and increase in R.O.M. (Range Of Motion) 3. Neurological: Ocular Vestibular Proprioception Central nervous System Upper motor neuron deformities Somatical sensory 4. Muscular: Imbalance origins and interactions A & B fibers Scarring of the myotendon area 5. Endocrinology: Trace elements Nutritional deficits Hormonal imbalances Digestive Genetics Areas of Concentration: The chiropractic physician corrects areas of spinal dysfunction through segmental adjustments and flexion distraction therapy. The chiropractic physician also administers S.M.S.T. (electric muscle stimulation) to Intrinsic A fibers and Lateral Torso B fibers as indicated by the surface EMG studies and X-rays. Tissue analysis, CLF board therapy, and heel lifts are also administered by the treating chiropractic physician. Endocrinology support is provided, and a monitoring of the three-phase exercise program is required. Ocular-vestibular training via the cross crawler is administered, and psychological management of the patient is provided. Frequency of Care: Chiropractic Scoliotic care is typically administered 2 to 3 times per week during the first 12 months of the Copes program. After this, the frequency of chiropractic care is often reduced in accordance with the patient's response to treatment. Our son went to the Copes-trained chiropractor 3 times per week for one year, and now goes just 1 or 2 times per week. His back and spine have improved greatly over the past year, in conjunction with wearing the brace and following the other parts of the treatment program. Sherri Linsenbach ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: RSMVMD@aol.com Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 20:17:43 EST Subject: Re: In a message dated 3/12/99 11:46:38 AM Eastern Standard Time, mlopez@emimusicpub.com writes: > Can anyone tell me at what degree do doctors begin to seriously discuss > surgery? My daughter age 12 has a 41 degree curve and they have already > begun to discuss surgery. Martha, The way I generally remember hearing it, doctors start to consider surgery at about 40 degrees for females and about 50 degrees for males. This is in regard to the lumbar curve. I would think that it is good to get at least two or three different opinions; however, be careful about not getting overly carried away. One thing that I remember my surgeon saying that really stuck with me once the general decision of having surgery was made...you can go for ten "second" opinions, and each would recommend surgery; however, you will get ten different opinions as to the exact surgery to be done. I hope this helps!! Richard S. Maryland (about 30 miles from Washington, DC) ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: Beichler68@aol.com Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 20:21:24 EST Subject: antibiotics and infections Not everyone has to take antibiotics post fusion/instrumentation when getting dental work. Early after the fusion I think some recommend it. Later it shouldn't be needed as the body encapsulates the rod with scar tissue, which prevents bacteria from being able to adhere and colonize there. The only real trouble with dental work is for people who have had heart valves replaced, as these are at a greater risk for infection due to the location in the heart. But always go with your physicians personal recommendations. In general prophylactic antibiotics are not a good thing as over use and misuse of antibiotics are creating many resistant strains on bacteria that we can't control with our current arsenal of antibiotics. This info is from what I have learned in my microbiology and pathogenic bacteriology classes in college. And believe me, you don;t want to contract a resistant bacteria like Methicillin resistant Staph a. or worse, Vancomycin resistant strains. Vanco costs upward $160 a day and is IV for 6 weeks and if you have a Vanco resistant strain there isn't much else stronger. As to the signs of infection, you already recieved good advice. But sometimes an infection isn't so obvious and there isn't any pus just a lot of pain, no fever, no elevated white count, just pain. I recently had a Staph epi infection in my lower back after having a lumbar puncture with a test I had done. All I knew was it hurt to move, to think about moving and nothing touched the pain...not Darvocet, not Percoset, not anything. Nobody could understand what was wrong with me but something was definitely very wrong. The symptoms of infection depend on what is the infecting agent. Staph a will be pus and fever and ooze, Staph epi and some other pathogens won't. Just depends. Don't rule it out totally just because there is no outward signs that are usually associated. I am still contemplating suing the ER for missing it twice before finally I was admitted for a week of tests! Good luck Maria ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: Beichler68@aol.com Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 20:21:20 EST Subject: re:bathing suits I dread looking for swimming suits also. But maybe for a slightly different reason...I have had two of them fall off my shoulder in the water, a potntially embarrassing moment. I decided this was due to the one shoulder being so much lower than the other and also the shoulder blades sticking out. I always go for the kind that cross over in the back as a result, no bandeau styles especially!! I also find ones with a little skirt it seems that they hide more yet don't look like an old woman's suit (no offense to any older listers!) Maria Orrville, Ohio ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: Beichler68@aol.com Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 20:23:02 EST Subject: Dr. Dean I have one chiro I ever trusted with my fused back. He is a personal friend and really didn't want to mess with it but I pleaded for him to put my rib back in place so I could breathe!! Anyhow, you make two. Maria ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: Smokejell@aol.com Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 20:35:46 EST Subject: Re: me LIZ: You are a total inspiration to all of us! YOU GO GIRL! Keep writing all these positive messages. They got me through the anxiety before surgery, the recovery right after and still keep me going, 4 months post-op. Thank You. xxx Angela ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: Leah640@aol.com Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 20:43:44 EST Subject: Re: me Liz, Great to hear your doing so well. What kind of hardware do you have now? Leah ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: Leah640@aol.com Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 20:51:31 EST Subject: Re: Tell your daughter to wear her brace. Martha, They start recomending surgery after 40 degrees. Get 3 opioions, or more if you feel it is nessesary. Hope this helps. and good luck to your daughter. I know how hard it is to talk teens into anything but try to get her to wear her brace. Even if it just holds her curve till surgery, it will make it easier for her. I had my fusion at age 15 almost 25 years ago so I know how she feels. Leah ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: Larry and Elaine Murphy Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 20:51:14 -0500 Subject: Re: Kelly's surgery on 3/12 Dear Mike, Here it is 3/12 and I've been praying for Kelly and especially today. Please keep us posted, we're all very interested in her recovery process. Elaine Murphy; Oscoda, Mi. ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: Kelja31@aol.com Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 21:23:03 EST Subject: Re: Just wanted to inform you.... Richard, Could you tell us, that want to know where you purchased these water exercise devises??? Thanks Take care and god bless...:) Kelli Sacto, CA ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: Kelja31@aol.com Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 21:25:46 EST Subject: Re: Sea Cucumber Extract Carol, Oh! Thats a good one! I was laughing when I read it. But, your e-mail really got me going. Thanks!!:) LOL... Take care... Kelli Sacto.CA ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: Lindylxg@aol.com Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 21:35:00 EST Subject: Scoliosis Surgury and Alternatives This is a multi-part message in MIME format. - --part0_921292501_boundary Content-ID: <0_921292501@inet_out.mail.aol.com.1> Content-type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII - --part0_921292501_boundary Content-ID: <0_921292501@inet_out.mail.earthlink.net.2> Content-type: message/rfc822 Content-transfer-encoding: 7bit Content-disposition: inline Return-Path: Received: from rly-zc03.mx.aol.com (rly-zc03.mail.aol.com [172.31.33.3]) by air-zc01.mail.aol.com (v56.26) with SMTP; Fri, 12 Mar 1999 15:47:20 -0500 Received: from dodo.prod.itd.earthlink.net (dodo.prod.itd.earthlink.net [207.217.120.99]) by rly-zc03.mx.aol.com (8.8.8/8.8.5/AOL-4.0.0) with ESMTP id PAA19909 for ; Fri, 12 Mar 1999 15:47:15 -0500 (EST) Received: from earthlink.net (1Cust205.tnt31.sfo3.da.uu.net [208.255.86.205]) by dodo.prod.itd.earthlink.net (8.8.7/8.8.5) with ESMTP id MAA20927 for ; Fri, 12 Mar 1999 12:47:18 -0800 (PST) Message-ID: <36E97D6F.31F842E4@earthlink.net> Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 12:47:47 -0800 From: Linda Racine Reply-To: lindaracine@earthlink.net X-Mailer: Mozilla 4.06 (Macintosh; I; PPC) To: Lindylxg@aol.com Subject: Re: Scoliosis Teens List Mime-Version: 1.0 Content-type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII Content-transfer-encoding: 7bit Hi... I did not forward your email to the Scoliosis Teens list. That list is for teen to teen discussion only. You should send your message to scoliosis@ai.mit.edu, which is for general discussion of all scoliosis treatments. To read about the various lists, go to: http://www.ai.mit.edu/extra/scoliosis/scoliosis.html#subscription - --Linda > > We have recently been informed that my daughter who has a 45 degree curve will > need surgury this summer. She has no pain and appears normal visually. I > would like to hear from anyone who has reduced their curve without surgury via > Copes Treatment or any other. I am especially interested in knowing if this > correction lasted into maturity. Also if surgury is indicated what new > techniques or procedures has anyone had a positive experience with? Thank you > for you responses! - --part0_921292501_boundary-- ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: RSMVMD@aol.com Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 21:48:22 EST Subject: Re: Backpack after surgery In a message dated 3/12/99 11:48:21 AM Eastern Standard Time, peninawf@umd5.umd.edu writes: > My daughter (15) is having surgery in June, and I was just wondering > if/when she would be able to carry a backpack on her back. Penina, This is a must ask question for your daughter's surgeon; however, after my surgery I was limited to lifting not much more than 5lbs. until the fusion was solid. Generally, it takes about 6 month for a teens fusion to become solid and about a year for an adult's fusion. The doctor will determine how solid the fusion is by x-ray on post-surgery follow-up appointments. Good luck to you and Rachel !! :-) Richard S. Maryland (about 30 miles from Washington, DC) P.S. -- Since we are "local", if you should have any other questions (or would like to talk), please email me privately and I'll give you my phone number :-) !! ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: RSMVMD@aol.com Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 21:54:36 EST Subject: Re: Just wanted to inform you.... In a message dated 3/12/99 9:36:15 PM Eastern Standard Time, Kelja31@aol.com writes: > Richard, > Could you tell us, that want to know where you purchased these water > exercise > ... Kelli, I have not purchased these water exercise devices. They are available at the fitness center/health club that I am a member at. I've been working with a personal trainer there for the past one and a half years. They can generally be found at JCC's and YM/YWCA's, etc. Richard S. Maryland (about 30 miles from Washington, DC) ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: NBiagini@aol.com Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 23:07:44 EST Subject: Re: Tell your daughter to wear her brace. In a message dated 3/12/99 2:30:24 PM Pacific Standard Time, mlopez@emimusicpub.com writes: << In the event that you didn't thoroughly read my questions, I asked at what degree do doctors usually discuss surgery!!! My daughter has a 41 degree curve and they've already begun to discuss surgery. >> It seems that age and degree of curvature are major factors in the "what degree ---> surgery." Other factors include spinal maturity, something the doc can see via x-rays, and whether it is congenital or idiopathic scoliosis. The good news is that you are catching it now. That said (and it isn't a complete list of factors, becuz I'm sure not a doctor!!!), it appears that the 40-50 range is when the possibility of surgery is first discussed. But don't take my word for it - your best bet is to get additional opinions from other scoliosis specialists & I would start with the SRS doctors (at www.srs.org). Hope this helps......Nancy ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: NBiagini@aol.com Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 23:09:49 EST Subject: Re: Basketball Playing In a message dated 3/12/99 3:04:04 PM Pacific Standard Time, mlopez@emimusicpub.com writes: << My daughter is heavily into basketball and her chiropractor just recommended that she discontinue playing. He feels that the pressure of all the running is harmful. >> Wow. I'm surprised, as I was never told by any of the chiros I saw at that age not to play basketball. This was a long time ago, so maybe things have changed.....have you had other opinions? ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: NBiagini@aol.com Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 22:52:55 EST Subject: Re: Sea Cucumber Extract I'm trying to figure out if you are serious here........ In a message dated 3/12/99 7:32:44 AM Pacific Standard Time, lethin@reservoir.com writes: << There are some number of people who say that injections of sea cucumber extract can stop the progression of scoli if not actually reverse it. There are very few studies either way. >> ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: NBiagini@aol.com Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 23:13:59 EST Subject: Re: me In a message dated 3/12/99 5:55:28 PM Pacific Standard Time, Smokejell@aol.com writes: << LIZ: You are a total inspiration to all of us! YOU GO GIRL! Keep writing all these positive messages. >> DITTO!! ....Nancy ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: Pegclay123@aol.com Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 23:22:59 EST Subject: Re: Detecting Scoliosis in Children In a message dated 99-03-11 13:03:28 EST, you write: << I usually do not defend an entire profession but I need to take exception to this e-mail. First there are quite a few people who would say that chiropractic CAN stop the progression of scoli if not actually reverse it. >> Well Dr. Dean I have to come to your professions defense also. Through bracing and Chiropractic my daughters curve has gone from 40 degrees to 14 degrees in 18 months-- the ortho we saw said basically that she was destined to be a hunch back and severe scoliolitic and would almost certainly need rods placed in her teen years since her curve was so severe at age 5 and she still had so much growth left to do and therefore so much opportunity for the curve to worsen even after her neuro problem was corrected they thought once the curve was there, there was minimal chance for correction and maximum chance for further curvature. The Chiro saw the glass as half full rather than half empty. They said instead that her age was completely an advantage rather than disadvantage since she was still so pliable and not completely formed. Saw much advantage for molding her and correcting the curve especially since the neuro condition was corrected. And with the constant molding and shaping by the chiro and the dynamic Copes brace they were right. In addition to the straightening to 14 degrees the very noticable rib hump is now history. We have every reason to expect 100 percent correction now. There is a high likely hood that she can completely correct by age 8 or 9 and never have to think about this condition again. We are very blessed in that we know the cause and that we trusted the preventative and corrective approach of the Chiros in combination with the neuro. The ortho would have used a brace that merely held the curve at the 40 degrees and would have only monitored her every 6 months, since he did not believe braces can correct that they can only hold the progression. Considerably less than adequate treatment. The amazing correction that we have seen would have never occurred in the ortho treatment program. So in our case Thank god for the Chiro!!!!!!!!! Three cheers!!!!!! ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: Pegclay123@aol.com Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 23:29:08 EST Subject: Re: Detecting Scoliosis in Children In a message dated 99-03-11 15:06:08 EST, you write: << He said that Moving the Vertebrae was actually not good for Scoli, it makes it easy for the vertebras to fall out of position easier by moving them all the time. >> Chiro is not just about moving vertebrae, it is about soft tissue work, exercises, low impact molding of the spine and ribs, preventative care etc. \ You obviously had a bad chiro just the same way that some have dreadful orthos that don't take into account neuro complications soft tissue probs etc. Bad docs happen in every discipline Chiros havent cornered the market on bad docs they are sprinkled liberally through each profession you have to shop and get references. ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: NBiagini@aol.com Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 23:44:21 EST Subject: Re: Detecting Scoliosis in Children In a message dated 3/12/99 8:36:24 PM Pacific Standard Time, Pegclay123@aol.com writes: << The amazing correction that we have seen would have never occurred in the ortho treatment program. >> One should never say never. ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: NBiagini@aol.com Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 23:47:46 EST Subject: Re: Sea Cucumber Extract << << There are some number of people who say that injections of sea cucumber extract can stop the progression of scoli if not actually reverse it. There are very few studies either way. >> >> How about if I just save time & eat land cucumbers? Cheaper.....and it gets in there just the same..... And, for the right dollar donation, I'll even do a study..... ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: ETheroux@aol.com Date: Sat, 13 Mar 1999 01:11:09 EST Subject: Re: me I have the CD flexible double rods with 3 pedicle screws that screw the bottom of rods to the spine....only ones I ever had. ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: ianjan Date: Sat, 13 Mar 1999 17:33:41 -0800 Subject: Re: Virus alert > > > Watch out for the following viruses: > > > > > > LEWINSKY VIRUS: sucks all the memory out of your computer, then > ... ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ From: "Patricia A. Cherry" Date: Sat, 13 Mar 1999 01:51:25 -0500 Subject: Re: Tell your daughter to wear her brace. Telling a teenager to wear her brace and accomplishing the fact is easier said than done. I know I was one who refused to wear my brace to school. Is your doctor thinking that since as soon as she comes out of the brace her curve worsens that there will be no long term solution with the brace and this is why he is suggesting surgery? Patty ______ For help on using this list (especially unsubscribing), send a message to "scoliosis-request@ai.mit.edu" with one line of text: "help". ------------------------------ End of scoliosis V1 #1131 ************************* You're reading a composite here: the scoliosis-digest is a daily encapsulation of messages sent to four different mailing lists: scoliosis, scoliosis-medical, scoliosis-child and scoliosis-teens. If you're responding, you can determine which list message above was posted to by looking at the message footer. 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