A member with CRPS seeks others who have had spinal fusion surgery

"I have had a severe double scoliosis curve since adolescence. I've recently turned 50 and have not had the curve measured (or even followed) since 1981. Long and short of the story is that I've been told by a scoli specialist that I am a candidate for full spinal fusion (rods, etc, the whole 29 yards.) Timing, he says, is the sooner the better.

I am almost frozen with fear about this. The surgery is HUGE; the recovery time 6 months to 1 year (for an "average" human body) and the curves are both advancing at about 1 degree a year which means I really can't postpone this for too long. I will be getting a second opinion from the most senior specialist I can find, no matter where he/she is in the country before I take any next steps. But, in the meantime, I am hoping to find somebody with RSD who has come through either extensive spinal fusion surgery or another serious surgery that has required long incisions and a LOT of manipulation internally, close to major nerves, etc." If you have had spinal fusion surgery and want to share your experience, please contact Grace at gcie@optonline.net

November 28, 2007