I've tried yoga, pilates, and gyrotonics.
I have explored massage, acupuncture, and physiotherapy.
I learned meditation, breathing techniques, and energy medicine.
Every approach has value, but I have learned with my fussy fused spine—and the accompanying pain, stiffness, and spasms—that not everything works all the time.
As a woman in her early 30s, is it better to have an adult spinal fusion before or after having kids?
The quick answer is that it is impossible to know!
If she is in extreme pain (which she does not mention), then perhaps it feels urgent.
On the other hand, considering her biological clock is ticking, it makes the most sense for her to have children as soon as possible - as long as she feels physically strong enough to go through pregnancy and the demands of infant care.
What is the schroth method and is it effective for people with fusion?
The Schroth Method is a therapeutic exercise technique developed in Germany by Katharina Schroth (1894-1985). It focuses on stopping curve progression, reducing pain, increasing strength and lung function. Similar in some ways to Yoga for Scoliosis, and in other ways to Scoli-Pilates, Schroth also uses wall barres to assist in the training.
Read MoreShould I have spinal fusion surgery?
In almost all cases, people experience some kind of discomfort with a fusion - ranging from general stiffness to disabling chronic pain. There are also some folks who never feel any discomfort ever! Every body, curve and rotation is completely unique, not to mention lifestyles vary greatly, so it is impossible to compare one surgery with another; one person with another.
Read MoreAfter your surgery did the rods feel like they provided support and relieve the muscle tension that we all experience from our spines holding on to the curve - was there a sense of support? I’m imagining that the muscle pain related to supporting the curve will diminish with the structure's support! What is everyone’s experience?
Read MoreCan you still do sit-ups after fusion surgery?
Read MoreCan you get your scoliosis fusion hardware removed?
The quick answer is YES, but depending on the type of hardware and length of time it has been attached to your spine, some removals are much easier than others.
I’m in constant chronic pain. How much pain is ok?
Often, we become so accustomed to our chronic pain that we stop listening to it, however, it is important to really learn to pay attention to it as it will help guide you. When you experience unfamiliar or recurring pain that you do not understand, it is important to stop, rest and seek external help; either with supportive care such as massage, osteopathy, acupuncture etc, or see your family doctor.
Has anyone ever experienced aching in their arms? Just curious if it could be fusion-related?
I read questions all the time asking whether or not a physical issue is fusion-related. For example, folks often ask questions about whether fusion causes issues like indigestion and acid reflux; a sore neck and tight shoulders; headaches, tight jaws, tender joints, etc—not to mention emotional issues, particularly anxiety and depression!
Have any of you tried an Inversion table? Does it help relieve fusion pain?
Inversion tables can work, but I much prefer to do inversions with a yoga wall as it takes up less space and offers much more variation than a table.
Read MoreFollowing spinal fusion, most people are unsure about what exercises are safe for them. In fact, it is common for many to feel fearful about any and all movement, not to mention regular day-to-day activities. This is a completely normal reaction, as our previously twisted yet flexible spines become suddenly much straighter, and much less flexible. This change affects the entire body, mind and soul!
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