I'm having spinal surgery too. I have two curves; the upper curve is 90 degrees and my lower curve is about 48 degrees. I'm going into surgery on the 27th of January but I know I'll be okay. I love this video. It's given me more courage and says I can do more than I think and I'll be okay :) Thank you for posting this!
@KoolCuz3 aww i have my last opperation on January 24th then on February 10th im getting the actual surgery..Be safe I will hope for you to be ok. I too have scoliosis itwent from 45 degree curve to 90 degree curve..:D
@CheerGymMusicJB how did your surgery go and how did it feel after? I am getting surgery soon and i am 13 and Very stressed about it and scared and worried..I just want to know your opinion on how it felt after surgery. Mine might hurt more because i am getting double surgery
I had surgery one year ago, and my curvature was 107 degrees. After surgery, I had 2 rods, and 14 screws in my spine. My curvature became 35 degrees. Please check out my channel! =D
@cocobear134 Mine is going to take 10 hours too! and did you get double surgery dont i have to so its gonna be alot more pain than one surgery and i have to get double surgery as well. Were you stressed about it? sorry to ask alot of questions
@pleasentjada70 Don't feel sorry to ask questions - I love to answer them!
I did not have a double surgery; I only had a posterior spinal fusion with metallic instrumentation back in May of 2008. The only thing I was stressed about was that I didn't have anyone to talk to about the surgery. Then I met my 8th grade science teacher who has scoliosis and has had a spinal fusion, and she answered my questions. When is your surgery?
~Cocobear134~
P.S. feel free to ask as many questions as you need!
@cocobear134 Thank you :) and im getting my surgery on February 10th but im afraid..are you aloud to bend down anymore i usually have to bend down during P.E. for warm ups and i down want to fracture any part of my body..are you able to do what you were able to do before the surgery?
Don't be afraid. The pain isn't all that bad-- that's why the Lord invented epidurals. :D
I can bend down but only too a certain extent before it starts to hurt a little. You'll be off of gym and other things for about a year, anyway. I've pretty much done all I've done before. I'm in marching band playing tuba (the heaviest instrument) and play varsity golf. My Dr. said I could even play football if I wanted. It's just based on pain tolerance.
@cocobear134 Wow you've actually made me feel kinda better about getting surgery.:D and that's good that you can do what you've done before. I don't have to worry so much now thanks!
you must have went through alot of pain when you had that surgrey i could not have done what you did you have influenced me to overcome my challeges thank you
Im getting my surgery on the 15th of November, I wanna ask a few Q's :), 1. How hard is it to stand and what is so hard about standing for the first time? 2. Does it hurt when you eat, move around, talk, etc? 3. Once you get back in school, can I/you participate in fitness (if not, BOOYAH!!!!!!!!! xD)? 3. What is one tip that sums up everything to all people who just endured scholiosis? BTW, WISH ME LUCK!!!!! :D
Hi katie, i have to have the surger in december and i am really worried about school. the doctors said that i will be out of school for three weeks because of when my surgery is. i was wondering if you had any ideas on how to stay up in school if you were in school at the time. also i'm super afraid of having the iv. i hate needles and am freaked about it. Oh and i was wondering if you grew any after your surgery? Your video was relly inspiring. thank you:)
I was just wondering but is the scar on your back very noticeable now (if you have one)? I may have to go through this spinal surgery so I'm kind of freaking out...^^;;
Love the video! I admire your bravery and strength!
Great video! I so admire your strength, so inspiring! <3 I have a close friend who's had several surgeries since she was born. She had a surgery at the bottom of her spine last november, but then her scoliosis suddenly went from a very slight curve to a huge curve in a short amount of time. In July she just had another surgery on her whole spine, her curve went from 88% to 33%. She gained alot of height, they are worried that her bones wont hold the rods though because she is so weak..
I will be having it done in December! I am very worried about the pain. Did you have to get a chest and back drain? Or even a catheter (eww) just asking not trying to be gross thanks!
@mckennamillsap Hi McKenna, Good luck in December! The pain is very tough but communication is key. Tell your nurses and doctors how you are feeling and what kinds of pain you are having and they will help you be as comfortable as you can. I did not have a back drain that I remember but I had had a catheter. I know it sounds really scary but it really isn't as big of a deal then as it seems like it would be know. Believe in yourself and take care, ~Katie
since we found out about her having scoliosis because of the fear of the rod disloding out of her back, she will be starting middle school next Monday and everything will be a new experience for her. She will only be able go to school for the first few weeks and then she will have to recover, I hope this doesn hurt her since this is the beginning of school and also since she is starting middle school, your viideo brought me to tears because I will experience this with her also thanks 4 posting
my daughter will be 12 next month, and we found out she had scoliosis when she was 8 we have had numerous surgeries. She had a growing rod placed in her back and had to have it lengthen every 6 months the rod was recently removed in June because it was working anymore, on Aug 17th she will have a spinal fusion and I pray she will have a good outcome, I enjoyed your vid and will let her watch it, I will do a video of her journey also You will be encouragement for her she wasnt able to do a lot
@yrkt27 Thank you so much for your sweet comments. I am really sorry your daughter has gone through so many surgeries already and I really hope this surgery will be her final so she can return to the active and energetic girl she deserves to be all throughout the rest of her middle school experience!. Thank you for your kind words about my video; I will be sure to look out for the one you make. Good luck in your journey, stay strong with her and never give up, ~Katie
I have scoliosis 8 degrees and i have physical therapy for my back.
one leg is longer than than the other, and my hip is slanted. they say theres like a 40% for surgery, but im horrified. you are a strong girl, and i pray for you and your grown back. <3<3
@Tunachew Hi! Thank you so much for your prayers. I'm sorry to hear you are in physical therapy but I hope it will keep your curve from progressing. I have actually been told that a curve of the spine isn't considered "Scoliosis" until 12* so I hope that makes you feel a little better... Take care and good luck with everything! :) ~Katie
Hey! It'll be 3 years this October after my scoliosis surgery. I really appreciate you putting this up. To see someone, like myself go through this as so many others have before is truly inspiring. The last measurement of my curve was about the same as yours but I had a bad S curve. My scar starts from the base of my neck and ends around my where my ribs end. To anyone who is getting the surgery, a great support system helps! I think it's all worth it though. Thank you for sharing your story!
@ScolioGirl13 I'm having surgery either late this year or mid next year (to avoid disrupting my studies), and I was wondering, can you still move around like you used to? I do a lot of martial arts and I'm worried I won't be able to be as flexible.
i also have scoliosis and i just wanted to ask if u told everyone about ur problem and if so how did they take it. i wanted to ask this question because if too afraid to tell anyone. im probably not getting surgery because i got from 26 to 9 but i want to wish all of u that do have to have the surgery.
@esselenafan Hi, thank you for your sweet well wishes. I did tell my closest friends when I got a brace and when other people asked if they saw it I was also more than happy to explain to them too. Most people are just curious and were really supportive when I told them what it was and why I wore it. Good luck in telling people about your scoliosis if you choose to. I think you'll find that it's not as a big of a deal as it seems becuase most people will understand-it just makes you unique. :)
hi katie! i also have scoliosis. i started bracing about 10 months ago. but even with the brace, its still growing pretty fast. at my last appointment, my curve went from 33 degrees to 46 degrees. my doctor didnt even recomend surgery he just wants to continure bracing, but in a way i kind of want the surgery. so my question for your is, was the surgery worth it? how bad is the pain afterwards? should i try to get the surgery? is there any encouraging advice you could give me?
@loveyou12178 Hey! I'm sorry to hear that despite the bracing your curve is continuing and that you feel surgery might be best. While I would say that I definitely don't regret my decision for surgery I did have a lot of problems and wouldn't have chosen it if I hadn't needed it but I did. I would wait for your surgeon to recommend surgery or ask him what he thinks about your having surgery and why you want it.
@ScolioGirl13 Pain is a difficult question because it is different for everyone but it was definitely tough and I would describe the pain as a tight stiffness deep in your back as well as spasms and some stabbing pain. My best advice would be to not worry about surgery if you don't need it but to look at the positive thing as you recover if you do. You can only make one decision so ask tons of questions to everyone you can and be confident in the decision you make.
are u onconcious when u get surgery??i get mine june 10th,and i am soo scared to death!!!well i visit june 10th,and what if u do have to get a back brace or srgery.it was at 41 and now it feels way worse!!!help plz katie!!!ooh and also did u grow when ur spine waz straighter??thanks ;) and graet movie man :)
@Cristy123344 Hi Cristy! I'm so sorry you are scared, but it's absolutely normal to be anxious, it is a big surgery. The best thing you can do though is ask questions, ask your surgeon anything you are worried about to make sure you feel comfortable. Yes though, you are not awake for the surgery. I did grow about an inch and a quarter when they straightened my spine and I'm not sure what you mean by the brace question but I did not have a hard brace after surgery. Good luck!
hello My name is ashley, I'm 21 not but i had the same surgery when i was 11. My spine was at a 82 degree angle and i know that it changed my life. It was hard and learing to walk was difficult but ten years later and my spine is still progressing. because of the rods the spine isn't turnging but my rib cage is causing severe pain threw out my entire body. I've gone to several doctors and they all tell me they don't know what to do so i thought i would share with others who have had this surgery
@asmiller82490 Hey Ashley! I am so sorry to hear that you had such a big curve and that the fusion has caused a serious issue with your rib cage since it is not imobilized as well. Could they do something to stop your ribs from getting worse since they can't like "unfuse" your spine? Don't give up on finding the right doctor and maybe someone else has had a similar situation? Please keep in touch!
@ScolioGirl13 I've talked to several doctors and they all told me the same thing that the only option i have is to brake and remove the ribs on my right side but that would leave my lung vonerable to puncters and infection. I'm scared but its nice to know that i'm not the only one out there with scoliosis that required surgery.
i hope i dont need surgery:(my curve is at 26degrees its like an s i have two curves.i had to wear a brace i couple years ago but now they told me just to stretch my legs abd back a lot to prevent pain.
@bandgrl01 Thank you for sharing. I hope the therapies work to keep you out of surgery. But how old are you?? Keep in mind that you have a small curve right now, so try not to be concerned with surgery for the time being. Hopefully they therapies will prevent any pain and your curve wont grow much! :)
hey guys i had surgery one year ago. my spine was 91 degress its way better to get surgery . Its very painful but i love this video i hope it helps all you guys who are suffering with scoliosis !
hi im getting surgey this summer and i am very nervous. But when i looked at the pictures the hospital looked very familiar is this childrens hospital in philadelphia?and does every surgery patient have to do breathing exersises and
@bballgal2 Good luck with your surgery! I say this all the time but be sure to ask every single question that you are thinking about to feel more confident. Oh how funny, but no, I went to a hospital in California. :) To answer your question, I have always heard of people doing breathing exercises after their surgery to keep their lungs strong and build them back up but not everyone has respiratory treatments (which I do show a picture of) I had that because I got really sick post-op.
hi im getting surgey this summer and i am very nervous. But when i looked at the pictures the hospital looked very familiar is this childrens hospital in philadelphia?
@mysticsunshine1979 Yes, I was in a lot of pain after surgery but you have to remember that that pain is normal and anticipated. They did fuse your spine after all which is major surgery. You just have to remember that each day things will get a little better and be prepared for the recovery. I learned to cherish all the small successes throughout my recovery to keep going. Be sure to let your nurse know when you are hurting so they can help you be as comfortable as you can be! Good luck!!
iwas tryin to find out how long does the pain last and how much longer does it take for you to do things for yourselfm becuss ihave the surgery in june
@ashhh26 Every person's surgery is very unique to them because the pain depends on where you are fused, how much you are fused, and your own pain tolerance. For me personally though...I feel like I was in strong post-op pain for 8-10 weeks and it took about 6 months for me to get truly used to my back and have more good days then bad. Right around my one year surgery anniversary I felt like I was living my normal life and was starting to try some more normal activities. I hope this helps!
I know what you mean about the pain. my doctor said i could do normal things but anything i didn't do before i cant do now. I use 2 love roller costers I tryed one after my surgery i was bed ridden for 3 days after bc of the pain. ten years later and i thought i would be able to do anything my age group is doing but the truth is you can try and bare it or you can know your limitations and work with it. at least that is what i've learned. I'm not trying to be a downer just being honest I'm sorry
thanks so much for the info.! Even though i was sad at first about this whole situation, i think god put me in the brace for a reson and i'm just gonna emBRACE it.
Katie, thank you so much for an inspirational video! i just got my brace for my back yesterday and I'm nervous and sad. none of my clothes fit and I'm scared of what people might say or think. I only have to wear my brace for two years at the most and if i wear it i probably won't have to get surgery; which i don't want! :) If you have any tips on how to handle the first few months, even the first few weeks, I would be so happy if you could share with me. I need my spirits uplifted. Please help!
@makeupgirly72 Hey!!! I'm so sorry to hear you are nervous about your back brace but I think you will find that it becomes a part of you before you think!! I found that pants with pockets that snap on the butt help to hide the edge of your brace, and wearing fuzzy sweaters or a few layers, completely hide the brace! As far as comfort goes, I liked wearing seamless spandex type camies and biker shorts so that I didn't get any rubbing from the brace to my skin.
And on hot summer days I liked to put my brace in the freezer when I was swimming or taking a shower, so that when I put it on it was cool and I didn't get too hot! :) I really hope those help!! Good luck and never give up!! :)
im having scoliosis surgery in a week does anyone know of any little things i should know?? if so could u please tell me as this would be very helpful and i would be very great full :) my curve has got worse and is now at 60 degres. i am unable to do many things and sometimes find it hard to breath! i am getting my surgety at great ormond street hospital. i have a cold and would i have to ring them and tell them now or shall i wait a little?? thanx :) kayla.
@Bumblebee17X I hope your surgery goes really well!! I am so sorry to hear you are getting sick and have been so limited with your scoliosis previously! My best tips would be get socks that have little sticky pads on the bottom so you feel more stable walking, bring a pillow as you go places to be comfortable and never give up!! Just stay positive as you recover. I have heard that you can't have surgery if you are sick and I bet they will ask on your surgery day but if not be sure to tell them.
i recently was diagnosed with scoliosis i have alot of friends with scoliosis that wear a brace but one that had the surgury not to long ago maby 6 weeks ago, but mine never got caught i have been checked for it and no one saw it and then i came home from school one day with my back hurting and for some reason swelled up? and my mom made a appointment for x rays and it was a 54 degree curve and recommended surgury so im getting it on january 12th.its gettin hard to breath and its now at a 60:(((
i recently was diagnosed with scoliosis i have alot of friends with scoliosis that wear a brace but one that had the surgury not to long ago maby 6 weeks ago, but mine never got caught i have been checked for it and no one saw it and then i came home from school one day with my back hurting and for some reason swelled up? and my mom made a appointment for x rays and it was a 54 degree curve and recommended surgury so im getting it on january 12th.its gettin hard to breath and its now at a 60:(((
@ thanks;;;ScolioGirl13;;;;;;the only thing now;;my daughter has it ;and we have been waiting soo long for a call to even to get in and talk to a spel ) ) ) then how long for the surgery who knows? they said they will call in the new year just for an apt! grazy) hello;;;;;;;;;;;;;from Canada
@purselady2 Oh my goodness I am so sorry to hear that you have to wait so long to get help! :( I hope they call very early in the new year for you and your daughter and I hope all goes well for her! Oh very cool, I live in the United States! Happy Holidays! :)
oh my gosh the only thing seperating you from my older sister is your face and that cave thinggy. she got a brace but it gave her a calapsed lung and she amost died, then she got a halo to straighten her spine but after that she got rods put in her back. shes in ninth grade and shes so skinny. but what brought all this was her ... i cant remember the name but i know it starts with an m. anyway, this video made me cry! its so kool wat u did. take care! -BLF
oh my gosh the only thing seperating you from my older sister is your face and that cave thinggy. she got a brace but it gave her a calapsed lung and she amost died, then she got a halo to straighten her spine but after that she got rods put in her back. shes in ninth grade and shes so skinny. but what brought all this was her ... i cant remember the name but i know it starts with an m. anyway, this video made me cry! its so kool wat u did. take care! -BLF
@darbiken Hey! I am so sorry to hear of your sister complications and such trials! I hope she is doing much better now!! Thank you for your sweet comments! Take care!! ~Katie
@lollipopleahh123 Awww, being in the hospital can be tough but hopefully you have great nurses and doctors! I hope you are feeling better much soon!! Never give up! ~Katie
hello, my name is Heather. i am 16 years old. i have severe scoliosis, & it's worse then any of these girls i have watched. if you could would you please write me on my email, hmalstan@yahoo.com i would appreciate it. i am loosing hope, & i need some strength.
hello, my name is Heather. i am 16 years old. i have severe scoliosis, & it's worse then any of these girls i have watched. if you could would you please write me on my email, hmalstan@yahoo.com i would appreciate it. i am loosing hope, & i need some strength.
@imback218 Oh my goodness I am so sorry to hear that you have to have the screw taken out!! Did they take out all of the screws?! I am actually having leg nerve pain and we were very concerned a screw may be a factor but luckily we believe it is due to piriformis syndrome and not my surgery. It is very bizarre that we both had nerve pain though and your 2nd surgery was on my 18th Birthday! I hope you are doing much better now and that they get everything fixed!!!!! You'll be in my thoughts!
@riek993 Oh my gosh, I'm sorry to hear about your complication as well. I hope the tachycardia doesn't present any problems for you! Take care, and keep me posted on how you are doing.
Hey, my name's Katlyn. I had surgery a few years ago & it has always been a real rough, emotional memory. The experience was so hard to go thru. Seeing ur pictures got me really emotional, but it helped a lot, b/c it reminded me how far I've come since then. I needed a good cry anyway lol. I know I dont know u, but I feel this strange connection & feel that I need to say I am proud of u for going through that. It looks like u did good. I hope all is well now:) Thank you for posting this video :)
Hey, my name's Katlyn. I had surgery a few years ago & it has always been a real rough, emotional memory. The experience was so hard to go thru. Seeing ur pictures got me really emotional, but it helped a lot, b/c it reminded me how far I've come since then. I needed a good cry anyway lol. I know I dont know u, but I feel this strange connection & feel that I need to say I am proud of u for going through that. It looks like u did good. I hope all is well now:) Thank you for posting this video :)
Hi im Stacey im goin to find out about surgery tomorrow in Dallas Im soo scared! I have had it for 3 YEARS and there just now talkin about surgery! Just wanted to ask a couple of Questions. Does it hurt to bend? And is it hard to sleep right after? You are very brave!! Hope to here back soon :)
@ROSEMARIE12ful Hey Stacey!! I hope you're appointment went very well yesterday! I'll be hoping the best for you! :) Those are fabulous questions but everyone's pain tolerance and journey is very different. However for me personally, It did hurt during my recovery to bend but now I can bend without pain nearly all the time! It was also hard for me to get used to sleeping post-op but once I got more used to my "new" back and what kinds of pillows helped me I started sleeping more like normal.
((Continued)) In general I would say to ask your doctor all the questions you may have to determine the best decision for you. Good luck Stacey and I really hope all goes well for you! Never give up, ~Katie
@xkatiesaur16 Hey, thank you for watching my video-I'm glad it could help. I am so sorry to hear that you had pain before surgery :(, I did not have pain before surgery and chose to do the surgery to make me structurally healthy. I did not have a rib hump that needed to be fixed but it did make my shoulder-blades much more even. As far as pain goes though, that is a very personal thing. Everyone's pain tolerance is very different and also their journeys are very unique.
((continued)) When you are in the hospital you are on lots of medications and the nurses and doctors do everything they can to keep you as comfortable as you can but yes I was in pain. :( It does get better though, you just have to be patient. As far as surgery centers in Virginia goes I have no idea because I don't live there but definitely ask people in your area so you can make the best decision you can! Good luck, ~Katie
Wow you are very brave! It's a miracle on how quicky you recovered. Well i found out i have scoliosis two years and it was very little now it is Hurting me and i can't sleep at night anymore i have a apointment September 13 to find out if i have to have surgery or not. well i think your are a brave girl and i would love to have your support Please :) If u would email me at Stacyreed6481@yahoo.com
I had my scoliosis fusion 4 months ago (exactly!) so I can relate to a lot of what you experienced.
I had a curve of 55 degress pre-op and now it's under 10 degrees!
I spent 9 days in the hospital (longer than normal as i had an illeus - my stomach stopped working - after my operation).
I know how hard the recovery is, and I still only feel 50% well, so I think you should be really proud of all you have accomplished following your surgery!
KATIE! My name is Megan and I just wanted to say you are one of my heros! My best friend whose name happens to be Katie as well, had scoliosis. She went through surgery back in december at St. Louis childrens hospital. Within 8 - 12 hours of her surgery, she was up and walking around. I went to go visit her and I cried so much because I missed her and wanted to be there every second of her operation. When I saw this, I cried, I smiled and I cheered you on through your struggles and am in awe!
Hey, i have just found ot i have scoliosis and my curve is 70degree and increasin rapidly :| it scares me. i need a opin 2months but first i am goin for a MRI scan,i think your really brave and wud love your support pleaase :) if u cud email me on my addy pleaase
@samanthajay131 Hey. I am so sorry to hear that you just found out you have such a big curve. It is scary but I bet you will do great with it!! Looking for information and becoming knowledgeable is a great idea so congratulations! Haha. That's a good step. :) I hope your MRI goes really well. Just make sure that you understand everything and are com0ofportable with your doctor. :) I would love to support you and will send you an e-mail now. Never give up, ~Katie
Hi Alice!! Thank you so much, I was super excited to climb again! Good luck with your surgery and upcoming recovery!! I will be thinking about you! :) At 2 months post-op I could sit for about an hour at a time but if I stood up before I got antsy I could sit for a longer amount of time over all-maybe 2.5 hours with frequent standing up. I would go for about a 3/4 of a mile walk at that point. I had many complications though so most people are more mobile at that point. Never give up! ~Katie
im having surgery june 25 2010, and your video.. is what helped me make a decision me and you have the SAME EXACT surgery operation and curve. mine is 48 and there will be 16 screws and 2 rods i have a question did you wear a bracce after surgery please email me back PLEASE i need to ask somethings im so scared :/ stepaway10@yahoo.com please message me bacl
Hi Molera2! I am so sorry to hear that so quickly after learning you had scoliosis you are faced with surgery. I could only imagine how tough that is. My best advise would be to make a list of all the questions you have and ask them all to your surgeon so you can get all the things you are wondering about answered. After surgery it is hard to learn to live with your new back as you go places for the first time post-op and I found that having a small pillow with me to adapt chairs was great!
@molera2 (part 2) I wish you the best of luck and a speedy recovery. This surgery was very tough but I don't ever regret having it done. If you have any questions don't hesitate to ask me. Good luck and never give up, ~Katie :)
@MrMusicstone: If you have scoliosis, I hope you find the treatment that works best for you! My recovery was supposed to be 6 weeks but we planned it so that the beginning of my leave was over a break and such so I would only miss 4 weeks of new material. Unfortunately I had a longer recovery then expected and it took 2 more weeks beyond my first 6 weeks home to be able to go to ALL of my classes. Everyone is different but that was how it was for me. Take care and never give up! ~Katie
Hi, I have scoliosis too and thought your video was quite inspirational :) I may have to have the surgery too but it's borderline so the doctor wants to watch it longer before deciding. Can you please tell me how flexible you are after the surgery? Pain aside, can you arch your back forward and backwards, and bend over and everything still? Thanks!
Hi stressedoutstudent. Those are great questions! I can lean forward and lean to both sides but I do not currently touch my toes or do back bends. Those are things that I was personally never very good at anyways but also don't really want to try. I have heard some people say they can do so post-op though, it just all depends on where exactly you are fused. I wish you all the best if you do need surgery! If you have any other questions I would love to talk with you! Never give up, ~Katie
I am 12 years old and I had to get my surgery may 19 2009 My Scoliosis was so ad that I ended up haveing to get surgery I had 2 curves Top was 79 and bottom was 65 but because of my age and how my body was prossecing We had to wait after 4 months we went back It got much worse when we got back my spine ended up to be 89 and 73 So we couldnt wait any longer. Because of how cricked my spine was the doctors could not get it perfectly straight so now my curves are 25 and 12
Hey XxToxicCookiesXx! I am so sorry to hear that you are not able to do gymnastics post-op. The hardest thing is seeing the good of the surgery and how much it has helped you over the limitations. I always try to remind myself that this surgery gave me the best future I could have where I will be straight and less likely to have complications so I can be happy! I hope you can continue to feel better to get back to being more and more active. Take care! Never give up, ~Katie
Hi Demi502. I am so sorry you went through so much pain. I understand completely, the surgery was really tough but I am glad I did it and I hope you feel the same way! Keep healing! :)
you're so brave! I need to have this surgery done and watching it makes me feel like i'm not alone...how long before you started feeling better?? and what kinda stuff are you able to do now? like bending twisting, does your back still feel stiff?? sorry for all the questions just preparing myself =)
Hey dhsnowflakes, thank you so much! I am glad my movie could help you because you are definitely not alone in this! Everyone's recovery is very different but for me personally, I was walking fairly steadily in about 4 days (but I got sick after that which is not normal so that changed my later recovery).
Now at One Year Post-Op I can do nearly anything I want I just always chose to think of my back before jumping into things. I can turn to look over my shoulder when I drive and I clean forward without feeling the rods. I do feel stiff sometimes now but definitely not the majority of the time- for most days I dont feel any stiffness at all! I hope this helps! If you have any other questions feel free to ask and I hope your surgery goes really well! Never give up, ~Katie
Hi Ursuatlanta. I am so sorry to hear that you need Spinal Fusion but I am so glad my movie could help you out. Sorry it took me a few days to respond but I hope your fusion went really well! Feel free to ask me any questions you may have and in the meantime I hope you are recovering really well!! Take care!
hi katie! I'm already 18 and I have 60* curve (maybe higher now)
I'm afraid I won't be able to get past the surgery. I don't want to think about not living anymore, but I can't think of a clear future with my scoliosis.
I wish I could be as brave as you are. When I have the money, I'd gladly go through the surgery.
Hi MissJuneGirl03.Thank you for watching my movie.I am sorry to hear that you have a high curve.I have found that thinking positively about the surgery but educating myself about the risks and restrictions was the best thing I did to be confident for my surgery. (But thank you for saying I was brave) I am sure that you can do whatever you set your mind to!
I am sorry to hear that you do not have the money for the surgery right now, I understand that. While I can not attest to not having the surgery there are some people who have high curves and are able to find relief and help through yoga and other sources so maybe you could try looking into those. I hope you are able to find a health plan that works well for you! Never give up, ~Katie
Hey! I am so sorry to hear that you need surgery and are so worried for it. The surgery was tough, but I feel it was the best choice I could have ever made! People feel differently and have very different recoveries after surgery, but for me during my early recovery I was mostly stiff and sore and would have throbs of pain and what I described as shooting pains-warm pains that moved down my scar. Just be sure to tell your doctors and nurses so they can make you comfortable as you can be!
Hey. Absolutely! I would love to hear any more questions you have. Good luck at your appointment, I hope it goes well. And thank you so much, I'm sure you will be amazingly brave as well! Take care, ~Katie
Katee :( so this is what your going though.. i decided to watch this vid till the very end as i wanted to know more about what you doing through.. and i promise and hope i can always be here for you, your a strong girl and an amazing friend
and to katiee whos vid this is,, sorry about the random comment.. but ur so brave <3 im glad you have your live back on track, your someone to admire xD and im glad ur ok : D
Hey. Absolutely! I keep running out of characters but I had one more message. Haha. I am back to doing nearly everything I did post-op I just automatically do them in a way that is better for my back. If you ever have any more questions feel free to send me an e-mail or even if you just want to talk more. I hope you are able to come up with a decision that works out well for you. Never give up, ~Katie
Hey. I am so sorry you are going through all this. I just want to say though, that it is completely normal to be nervous! It is a hard decision but in the end I consider surgery the biggest but best decision I ever made. My surgeon did wait until my curve was over 45* to talk about surgery, but all of the doctors have different surgery lines.
Recovery was hard but it was also very rewarding and I had so much support from my amazing nurses, family and friends that I actually have good memories from the hospital too. As far as pain goes your doctors come up with a pain plan so that you are as comfortable as possible while you are in the hospital. I know of some people who even went right back to dancing after only a couple months post-op, you just have to work on it.
hi katie. this ur video is so helpful for me! i have scoliosis and i will be getting the boston brace very soon. you helped me believe that the brace will work in keeping my back from getting worse. thank you!(:
Hi. I am so glad my video could help you. I wore Boston Braces too as you saw and if you have any questions I would love to answer them for you! Take care, ~Katie
Hey im a 17 year old male with scoliosis....my curve is in my lower back and its at 27 when just 3 months ago it was at 20...i love to lift weights and hang out with friends and really dont want to have to use a brace...i was just wondering if it really helps..the brace that is.
Hey! I do feel that my brace helped control my curve. I think some people feel the braces "don't work" bc many people think they will fix the curve. The braces job isn't really to fix the curve but to help hold it or minimize the progression while you are growing to get your maximum growth. I wore my brace for 4 years and while my curve still did get worse and I needed surgery, I think it would have gotten much worse had I not. Let me know if you have any other q's I would love to talk!~Katie
Thank you so much! I am doing really well! I am definitely living my dream! I have no pain at all and when I'm seated I can lean all the way to the floor and not feel the rods at all. It is quite amazing. I hope you get there soon! Keep healing and thanks for watching, ~Katie
Hi Katie my name is Kirstie Im 11half years old . I love your scolioss video. I also have scolioss surgrey and Im having it done at Starship hospital. how old are you now and how old were you when you had surgrey. and what year did you have your surgrey. I am sorry that you got really sick. and where do you live? anyway I was wondering if you wanted to be freinds and talk to me on youtube?
Hey Kirstie! Thank you for your sweet comment! I would absolutely love to be your friend and talk with you! I will add you right now! To answer your questions, I am 16 years old (but in one week I will be 17!) and I had the surgery 10 months ago when I was 16. My surgery was on January 13th 2009 and I live in California. I am sorry to hear that you too have scoliosis but I would absolutely love to talk with you and answer any questions you may have. Take care and talk to you soon, ~Katie
Hey katie! Would just like to say, great video! it really helps people when you post them here so we can watch and learn! So thank you:) I had the surgery about four weeks ago, and i'm doing pretty well. Your surgery and your stay at the hospital, reminded me alot about my own. The only problem I have is that i'm still pretty stiff, i still have problems putting my socks. so i just wondered, had you that same problem and when could you bend "normal" again without pain?
Hey! Thank you so much, that is exactly why I posted the movie! I am so glad to know that I could be of help! Well first of all I hope you feel better soon and great question! Everyone is different but this is how it was for me. I was in the hospital for 2 weeks so by the time I left I was fairly independent but still did everything super spine neutral to avoid pain. At almost 6 weeks exactly I was able to start sitting through classes
I began doing more and more for the next 3 months but I was still slightly stiff but not in as much pain. The important thing to realise is you are doing more that causes the stiffness so you are still doing much better! At 6 months post-op I stopped having pain and couldn't even feel the rods. Now at 9 months I learned that apparently I have been able to (for quite some time) bend (out of spine neutral) without pain!!! So I can do anything!
did it hurt during the surgery?
thedevilisevil123 1 month ago
@thedevilisevil123 no they give her anesthesia so she falls asleep during surgery so she won't feel it.
MeeMaia 4 days ago
I'm having spinal surgery too. I have two curves; the upper curve is 90 degrees and my lower curve is about 48 degrees. I'm going into surgery on the 27th of January but I know I'll be okay. I love this video. It's given me more courage and says I can do more than I think and I'll be okay :) Thank you for posting this!
KoolCuz3 2 months ago
@KoolCuz3 aww i have my last opperation on January 24th then on February 10th im getting the actual surgery..Be safe I will hope for you to be ok. I too have scoliosis itwent from 45 degree curve to 90 degree curve..:D
pleasentjada70 2 months ago
Im getting surgery in 14 days. IM SO NERVOUS!!!! Do you feel any pain or is it all nmbed from the meds?
CheerGymMusicJB 3 months ago
@CheerGymMusicJB how did your surgery go and how did it feel after? I am getting surgery soon and i am 13 and Very stressed about it and scared and worried..I just want to know your opinion on how it felt after surgery. Mine might hurt more because i am getting double surgery
Thank -Jade
pleasentjada70 2 months ago
I had surgery one year ago, and my curvature was 107 degrees. After surgery, I had 2 rods, and 14 screws in my spine. My curvature became 35 degrees. Please check out my channel! =D
SquigglyBuddies14 3 months ago
AH! My surgery took 10 hours as well and I also have 2 rods and 16 screws! This just made my day! :)
Do you have any hooks?
cocobear134 3 months ago
@cocobear134 Mine is going to take 10 hours too! and did you get double surgery dont i have to so its gonna be alot more pain than one surgery and i have to get double surgery as well. Were you stressed about it? sorry to ask alot of questions
Thanks -Jade
pleasentjada70 2 months ago
@pleasentjada70 Don't feel sorry to ask questions - I love to answer them!
I did not have a double surgery; I only had a posterior spinal fusion with metallic instrumentation back in May of 2008. The only thing I was stressed about was that I didn't have anyone to talk to about the surgery. Then I met my 8th grade science teacher who has scoliosis and has had a spinal fusion, and she answered my questions. When is your surgery?
~Cocobear134~
P.S. feel free to ask as many questions as you need!
cocobear134 2 months ago
@cocobear134 Thank you :) and im getting my surgery on February 10th but im afraid..are you aloud to bend down anymore i usually have to bend down during P.E. for warm ups and i down want to fracture any part of my body..are you able to do what you were able to do before the surgery?
-Jade-
pleasentjada70 2 months ago
@pleasentjada70 No problem. :)
Don't be afraid. The pain isn't all that bad-- that's why the Lord invented epidurals. :D
I can bend down but only too a certain extent before it starts to hurt a little. You'll be off of gym and other things for about a year, anyway. I've pretty much done all I've done before. I'm in marching band playing tuba (the heaviest instrument) and play varsity golf. My Dr. said I could even play football if I wanted. It's just based on pain tolerance.
~Cocobear134~
cocobear134 1 month ago
@cocobear134 Wow you've actually made me feel kinda better about getting surgery.:D and that's good that you can do what you've done before. I don't have to worry so much now thanks!
-Jade-
pleasentjada70 1 month ago
This has been flagged as spam show
@pleasentjada70 I'm glad I could help. :)
And once again, please feel free to ask me any questions you have!
~Cocobear134~
cocobear134 1 month ago
you must have went through alot of pain when you had that surgrey i could not have done what you did you have influenced me to overcome my challeges thank you
JazzmenMeantToBe 4 months ago
hiyo katie :D,
Im getting my surgery on the 15th of November, I wanna ask a few Q's :), 1. How hard is it to stand and what is so hard about standing for the first time? 2. Does it hurt when you eat, move around, talk, etc? 3. Once you get back in school, can I/you participate in fitness (if not, BOOYAH!!!!!!!!! xD)? 3. What is one tip that sums up everything to all people who just endured scholiosis? BTW, WISH ME LUCK!!!!! :D
sakuragurl15 5 months ago
Hi katie, i have to have the surger in december and i am really worried about school. the doctors said that i will be out of school for three weeks because of when my surgery is. i was wondering if you had any ideas on how to stay up in school if you were in school at the time. also i'm super afraid of having the iv. i hate needles and am freaked about it. Oh and i was wondering if you grew any after your surgery? Your video was relly inspiring. thank you:)
-Colbie
colbiee19 5 months ago
Hi Katie u r a very brave girl. I suffer from NF1 and it got me scoliosis and it gotten worse. Im goin 2 Iowa City 2 find out if I need this surgery.
I have a few questions about the surgery.
1. how long does the sugery take?
2. How bad is the pain? (im a wuss when it comes 2 pain)
3. How long is the physical theaphy?
4. How long do I wear the case?
5 How long is hospital stay?(I think everybody diffrent)
6. is the surgery safe?
I think thats it 4 now. Sorry 4 all the questions. :(
Monkeygal1000 5 months ago
I was just wondering but is the scar on your back very noticeable now (if you have one)? I may have to go through this spinal surgery so I'm kind of freaking out...^^;;
Love the video! I admire your bravery and strength!
fictionlover598 6 months ago
Great video! I so admire your strength, so inspiring! <3 I have a close friend who's had several surgeries since she was born. She had a surgery at the bottom of her spine last november, but then her scoliosis suddenly went from a very slight curve to a huge curve in a short amount of time. In July she just had another surgery on her whole spine, her curve went from 88% to 33%. She gained alot of height, they are worried that her bones wont hold the rods though because she is so weak..
GallopingCloud 7 months ago
I will be having it done in December! I am very worried about the pain. Did you have to get a chest and back drain? Or even a catheter (eww) just asking not trying to be gross thanks!
McKenna
mckennamillsap 7 months ago
@mckennamillsap Hi McKenna, Good luck in December! The pain is very tough but communication is key. Tell your nurses and doctors how you are feeling and what kinds of pain you are having and they will help you be as comfortable as you can. I did not have a back drain that I remember but I had had a catheter. I know it sounds really scary but it really isn't as big of a deal then as it seems like it would be know. Believe in yourself and take care, ~Katie
ScolioGirl13 7 months ago
since we found out about her having scoliosis because of the fear of the rod disloding out of her back, she will be starting middle school next Monday and everything will be a new experience for her. She will only be able go to school for the first few weeks and then she will have to recover, I hope this doesn hurt her since this is the beginning of school and also since she is starting middle school, your viideo brought me to tears because I will experience this with her also thanks 4 posting
yrkt27 7 months ago
my daughter will be 12 next month, and we found out she had scoliosis when she was 8 we have had numerous surgeries. She had a growing rod placed in her back and had to have it lengthen every 6 months the rod was recently removed in June because it was working anymore, on Aug 17th she will have a spinal fusion and I pray she will have a good outcome, I enjoyed your vid and will let her watch it, I will do a video of her journey also You will be encouragement for her she wasnt able to do a lot
yrkt27 7 months ago
@yrkt27 Thank you so much for your sweet comments. I am really sorry your daughter has gone through so many surgeries already and I really hope this surgery will be her final so she can return to the active and energetic girl she deserves to be all throughout the rest of her middle school experience!. Thank you for your kind words about my video; I will be sure to look out for the one you make. Good luck in your journey, stay strong with her and never give up, ~Katie
ScolioGirl13 7 months ago
Congrats on your surgery!
I have scoliosis 8 degrees and i have physical therapy for my back.
one leg is longer than than the other, and my hip is slanted. they say theres like a 40% for surgery, but im horrified. you are a strong girl, and i pray for you and your grown back. <3<3
Tunachew 7 months ago
@Tunachew Hi! Thank you so much for your prayers. I'm sorry to hear you are in physical therapy but I hope it will keep your curve from progressing. I have actually been told that a curve of the spine isn't considered "Scoliosis" until 12* so I hope that makes you feel a little better... Take care and good luck with everything! :) ~Katie
ScolioGirl13 7 months ago
GURL THTS WAT I HAD THE SAME SICKNESS I HAD IT IN 5TH GRADE AND I WAS SICK FOR 2 WEEKS AND I ALWAYS COUGH AND THROW UP
TheMath2011 8 months ago
Hey! It'll be 3 years this October after my scoliosis surgery. I really appreciate you putting this up. To see someone, like myself go through this as so many others have before is truly inspiring. The last measurement of my curve was about the same as yours but I had a bad S curve. My scar starts from the base of my neck and ends around my where my ribs end. To anyone who is getting the surgery, a great support system helps! I think it's all worth it though. Thank you for sharing your story!
Twiholic913620 8 months ago
Very inspirational! Thank you for being brave enough to share your story!
TheSilverLining80 8 months ago
@ScolioGirl13 I'm having surgery either late this year or mid next year (to avoid disrupting my studies), and I was wondering, can you still move around like you used to? I do a lot of martial arts and I'm worried I won't be able to be as flexible.
GameplayaInc 9 months ago
i also have scoliosis and i just wanted to ask if u told everyone about ur problem and if so how did they take it. i wanted to ask this question because if too afraid to tell anyone. im probably not getting surgery because i got from 26 to 9 but i want to wish all of u that do have to have the surgery.
im really glad ur surgery turned out well
esselenafan 9 months ago
@esselenafan Hi, thank you for your sweet well wishes. I did tell my closest friends when I got a brace and when other people asked if they saw it I was also more than happy to explain to them too. Most people are just curious and were really supportive when I told them what it was and why I wore it. Good luck in telling people about your scoliosis if you choose to. I think you'll find that it's not as a big of a deal as it seems becuase most people will understand-it just makes you unique. :)
ScolioGirl13 9 months ago
@ScolioGirl13 Thank you so much for your support and i wish you the best.
esselenafan 9 months ago
hi katie! i also have scoliosis. i started bracing about 10 months ago. but even with the brace, its still growing pretty fast. at my last appointment, my curve went from 33 degrees to 46 degrees. my doctor didnt even recomend surgery he just wants to continure bracing, but in a way i kind of want the surgery. so my question for your is, was the surgery worth it? how bad is the pain afterwards? should i try to get the surgery? is there any encouraging advice you could give me?
thanks so much!
loveyou12178 9 months ago
@loveyou12178 Hey! I'm sorry to hear that despite the bracing your curve is continuing and that you feel surgery might be best. While I would say that I definitely don't regret my decision for surgery I did have a lot of problems and wouldn't have chosen it if I hadn't needed it but I did. I would wait for your surgeon to recommend surgery or ask him what he thinks about your having surgery and why you want it.
ScolioGirl13 9 months ago
@ScolioGirl13 Pain is a difficult question because it is different for everyone but it was definitely tough and I would describe the pain as a tight stiffness deep in your back as well as spasms and some stabbing pain. My best advice would be to not worry about surgery if you don't need it but to look at the positive thing as you recover if you do. You can only make one decision so ask tons of questions to everyone you can and be confident in the decision you make.
ScolioGirl13 9 months ago
are u onconcious when u get surgery??i get mine june 10th,and i am soo scared to death!!!well i visit june 10th,and what if u do have to get a back brace or srgery.it was at 41 and now it feels way worse!!!help plz katie!!!ooh and also did u grow when ur spine waz straighter??thanks ;) and graet movie man :)
Cristy123344 10 months ago
@Cristy123344 Hi Cristy! I'm so sorry you are scared, but it's absolutely normal to be anxious, it is a big surgery. The best thing you can do though is ask questions, ask your surgeon anything you are worried about to make sure you feel comfortable. Yes though, you are not awake for the surgery. I did grow about an inch and a quarter when they straightened my spine and I'm not sure what you mean by the brace question but I did not have a hard brace after surgery. Good luck!
ScolioGirl13 10 months ago
@ScolioGirl13 Thankyou!!You are awesome by the way!!!Do you have a phone??Cellular Device?
Cristy123344 9 months ago
@ScolioGirl13 Thankyou!!You are awesome by the way!!!Do you have a phone??Cellular Device?
You are beautiful too Katie!!
Cristy123344 9 months ago
your story is amazing. and los gatos i live 5 mins from there nice community.
danster3461 10 months ago
@danster3461 Thank you so much! :)
ScolioGirl13 10 months ago
hello My name is ashley, I'm 21 not but i had the same surgery when i was 11. My spine was at a 82 degree angle and i know that it changed my life. It was hard and learing to walk was difficult but ten years later and my spine is still progressing. because of the rods the spine isn't turnging but my rib cage is causing severe pain threw out my entire body. I've gone to several doctors and they all tell me they don't know what to do so i thought i would share with others who have had this surgery
asmiller82490 11 months ago
@asmiller82490 Hey Ashley! I am so sorry to hear that you had such a big curve and that the fusion has caused a serious issue with your rib cage since it is not imobilized as well. Could they do something to stop your ribs from getting worse since they can't like "unfuse" your spine? Don't give up on finding the right doctor and maybe someone else has had a similar situation? Please keep in touch!
ScolioGirl13 11 months ago
@ScolioGirl13 I've talked to several doctors and they all told me the same thing that the only option i have is to brake and remove the ribs on my right side but that would leave my lung vonerable to puncters and infection. I'm scared but its nice to know that i'm not the only one out there with scoliosis that required surgery.
asmiller82490 10 months ago
i hope i dont need surgery:(my curve is at 26degrees its like an s i have two curves.i had to wear a brace i couple years ago but now they told me just to stretch my legs abd back a lot to prevent pain.
bandgrl01 1 year ago
@bandgrl01 Thank you for sharing. I hope the therapies work to keep you out of surgery. But how old are you?? Keep in mind that you have a small curve right now, so try not to be concerned with surgery for the time being. Hopefully they therapies will prevent any pain and your curve wont grow much! :)
ScolioGirl13 11 months ago
@ScolioGirl13 ha im 14.i got diagnosted when i was 11 or 12.ha and thanksi hope i wont need surgery
bandgrl01 11 months ago
@ScolioGirl13 ha thanks and im 14
bandgrl01 10 months ago
hey guys i had surgery one year ago. my spine was 91 degress its way better to get surgery . Its very painful but i love this video i hope it helps all you guys who are suffering with scoliosis !
lilflacka09 1 year ago
@lilflacka09 Thank you for watching! I am sooo glad to hear you are doing well, hang in there!!!
ScolioGirl13 11 months ago
your story made me cry
PLLPOL 1 year ago
@PLLPOL Aw I hope it was a good kind of cry?? :/ I hope all is well for you!
ScolioGirl13 11 months ago
i had the surgery three weeks ago...watch my video!!
MHfieldhockey 1 year ago
hi im getting surgey this summer and i am very nervous. But when i looked at the pictures the hospital looked very familiar is this childrens hospital in philadelphia?and does every surgery patient have to do breathing exersises and
bballgal2 1 year ago
@bballgal2 Good luck with your surgery! I say this all the time but be sure to ask every single question that you are thinking about to feel more confident. Oh how funny, but no, I went to a hospital in California. :) To answer your question, I have always heard of people doing breathing exercises after their surgery to keep their lungs strong and build them back up but not everyone has respiratory treatments (which I do show a picture of) I had that because I got really sick post-op.
ScolioGirl13 1 year ago
@bballgal2 i just had the surgery please watch my vid or inbox me i will answer any questions!
MHfieldhockey 1 year ago
hi im getting surgey this summer and i am very nervous. But when i looked at the pictures the hospital looked very familiar is this childrens hospital in philadelphia?
bballgal2 1 year ago
IM fine that was a long time ago 1976) u all will be fine) i sit sooo straight!
purselady2 1 year ago
i have a reqest i have it to does it hurt 2/1/11 i am geting it done can u tell me please
mysticsunshine1979 1 year ago
@mysticsunshine1979 Yes, I was in a lot of pain after surgery but you have to remember that that pain is normal and anticipated. They did fuse your spine after all which is major surgery. You just have to remember that each day things will get a little better and be prepared for the recovery. I learned to cherish all the small successes throughout my recovery to keep going. Be sure to let your nurse know when you are hurting so they can help you be as comfortable as you can be! Good luck!!
ScolioGirl13 1 year ago
i had it done 1976 i really didnt rem any pain) i had a brace after and a body cast
purselady2 1 year ago
@purselady2 Oh my gosh, I'm sorry to hear you had a body cast! I hope you are doing better now!
ScolioGirl13 1 year ago
iwas tryin to find out how long does the pain last and how much longer does it take for you to do things for yourselfm becuss ihave the surgery in june
ashhh26 1 year ago
@ashhh26 Every person's surgery is very unique to them because the pain depends on where you are fused, how much you are fused, and your own pain tolerance. For me personally though...I feel like I was in strong post-op pain for 8-10 weeks and it took about 6 months for me to get truly used to my back and have more good days then bad. Right around my one year surgery anniversary I felt like I was living my normal life and was starting to try some more normal activities. I hope this helps!
ScolioGirl13 1 year ago
I know what you mean about the pain. my doctor said i could do normal things but anything i didn't do before i cant do now. I use 2 love roller costers I tryed one after my surgery i was bed ridden for 3 days after bc of the pain. ten years later and i thought i would be able to do anything my age group is doing but the truth is you can try and bare it or you can know your limitations and work with it. at least that is what i've learned. I'm not trying to be a downer just being honest I'm sorry
asmiller82490 11 months ago
good video. i went through the same stuff as you but kinda a little rougher because my degree was a 65. so ya. but glad to see it worked for you:)
curvyspineforlife 1 year ago
wow! you are so brave :)
ive got scoliosis too, and they've given me the option of the operation..
ive got to decide for the end of this month.
but i dont think im brave enough to have it! :/
because all i do is think of the risks and not the positives :(
1xlolx1 1 year ago
thanks so much for the info.! Even though i was sad at first about this whole situation, i think god put me in the brace for a reson and i'm just gonna emBRACE it.
lol haha :)
makeupgirly72 1 year ago
Katie, thank you so much for an inspirational video! i just got my brace for my back yesterday and I'm nervous and sad. none of my clothes fit and I'm scared of what people might say or think. I only have to wear my brace for two years at the most and if i wear it i probably won't have to get surgery; which i don't want! :) If you have any tips on how to handle the first few months, even the first few weeks, I would be so happy if you could share with me. I need my spirits uplifted. Please help!
makeupgirly72 1 year ago
@makeupgirly72 Hey!!! I'm so sorry to hear you are nervous about your back brace but I think you will find that it becomes a part of you before you think!! I found that pants with pockets that snap on the butt help to hide the edge of your brace, and wearing fuzzy sweaters or a few layers, completely hide the brace! As far as comfort goes, I liked wearing seamless spandex type camies and biker shorts so that I didn't get any rubbing from the brace to my skin.
ScolioGirl13 1 year ago
And on hot summer days I liked to put my brace in the freezer when I was swimming or taking a shower, so that when I put it on it was cool and I didn't get too hot! :) I really hope those help!! Good luck and never give up!! :)
ScolioGirl13 1 year ago
im having scoliosis surgery in a week does anyone know of any little things i should know?? if so could u please tell me as this would be very helpful and i would be very great full :) my curve has got worse and is now at 60 degres. i am unable to do many things and sometimes find it hard to breath! i am getting my surgety at great ormond street hospital. i have a cold and would i have to ring them and tell them now or shall i wait a little?? thanx :) kayla.
Bumblebee17X 1 year ago
@Bumblebee17X I hope your surgery goes really well!! I am so sorry to hear you are getting sick and have been so limited with your scoliosis previously! My best tips would be get socks that have little sticky pads on the bottom so you feel more stable walking, bring a pillow as you go places to be comfortable and never give up!! Just stay positive as you recover. I have heard that you can't have surgery if you are sick and I bet they will ask on your surgery day but if not be sure to tell them.
ScolioGirl13 1 year ago
hi katie i'm feeling great shine my scoliosis surgery i'm now 9 months postop
UCDMC 1 year ago
I'm so glad to hear that! I hope you keep doing well! :)
ScolioGirl13 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
i recently was diagnosed with scoliosis i have alot of friends with scoliosis that wear a brace but one that had the surgury not to long ago maby 6 weeks ago, but mine never got caught i have been checked for it and no one saw it and then i came home from school one day with my back hurting and for some reason swelled up? and my mom made a appointment for x rays and it was a 54 degree curve and recommended surgury so im getting it on january 12th.its gettin hard to breath and its now at a 60:(((
scoliosis12 1 year ago
i recently was diagnosed with scoliosis i have alot of friends with scoliosis that wear a brace but one that had the surgury not to long ago maby 6 weeks ago, but mine never got caught i have been checked for it and no one saw it and then i came home from school one day with my back hurting and for some reason swelled up? and my mom made a appointment for x rays and it was a 54 degree curve and recommended surgury so im getting it on january 12th.its gettin hard to breath and its now at a 60:(((
scoliosis12 1 year ago
Comment removed
scoliosis12 1 year ago
@ thanks;;;ScolioGirl13;;;;;;the only thing now;;my daughter has it ;and we have been waiting soo long for a call to even to get in and talk to a spel ) ) ) then how long for the surgery who knows? they said they will call in the new year just for an apt! grazy) hello;;;;;;;;;;;;;from Canada
purselady2 1 year ago
@purselady2 Oh my goodness I am so sorry to hear that you have to wait so long to get help! :( I hope they call very early in the new year for you and your daughter and I hope all goes well for her! Oh very cool, I live in the United States! Happy Holidays! :)
ScolioGirl13 1 year ago
i had it done 1976 im fine;; i had a brace and a body cast;;;;;;; done at SICK KIDS TORONTO
purselady2 1 year ago
@purselady2 Aw, I am so glad to hear you are doing well!! That definitely warms my heart! I hope things continue to go well for you! Take care! :)
ScolioGirl13 1 year ago
oh my gosh the only thing seperating you from my older sister is your face and that cave thinggy. she got a brace but it gave her a calapsed lung and she amost died, then she got a halo to straighten her spine but after that she got rods put in her back. shes in ninth grade and shes so skinny. but what brought all this was her ... i cant remember the name but i know it starts with an m. anyway, this video made me cry! its so kool wat u did. take care! -BLF
darbiken 1 year ago
oh my gosh the only thing seperating you from my older sister is your face and that cave thinggy. she got a brace but it gave her a calapsed lung and she amost died, then she got a halo to straighten her spine but after that she got rods put in her back. shes in ninth grade and shes so skinny. but what brought all this was her ... i cant remember the name but i know it starts with an m. anyway, this video made me cry! its so kool wat u did. take care! -BLF
darbiken 1 year ago
@darbiken Hey! I am so sorry to hear of your sister complications and such trials! I hope she is doing much better now!! Thank you for your sweet comments! Take care!! ~Katie
ScolioGirl13 1 year ago
yeah i spend a lot of time in the hospital and its not that greatt. but im glad that your hopefully recovered now :)
lollipopleahh123 1 year ago
@lollipopleahh123 Awww, being in the hospital can be tough but hopefully you have great nurses and doctors! I hope you are feeling better much soon!! Never give up! ~Katie
ScolioGirl13 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
hello, my name is Heather. i am 16 years old. i have severe scoliosis, & it's worse then any of these girls i have watched. if you could would you please write me on my email, hmalstan@yahoo.com i would appreciate it. i am loosing hope, & i need some strength.
hurricaneheather001 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
hello, my name is Heather. i am 16 years old. i have severe scoliosis, & it's worse then any of these girls i have watched. if you could would you please write me on my email, hmalstan@yahoo.com i would appreciate it. i am loosing hope, & i need some strength.
hurricaneheather001 1 year ago
your amazing katie
pinkmusiclover2 1 year ago
@pinkmusiclover2 Aw thank you, I hope my video helped you! Take care!! :)
ScolioGirl13 1 year ago
I had back surgery in march for Scoliosis, but i have had a problem since Surgery...
There has been a screw touching a leg nerve...Very painful.
I get that taken out November 8th
imback218 1 year ago
@imback218 Oh my goodness I am so sorry to hear that you have to have the screw taken out!! Did they take out all of the screws?! I am actually having leg nerve pain and we were very concerned a screw may be a factor but luckily we believe it is due to piriformis syndrome and not my surgery. It is very bizarre that we both had nerve pain though and your 2nd surgery was on my 18th Birthday! I hope you are doing much better now and that they get everything fixed!!!!! You'll be in my thoughts!
ScolioGirl13 1 year ago
@imback218 im so sorry to heart that, i had my surgery in march too it went well the only sideefects is tachycardia i hope you get better :)
riek993 1 year ago
@riek993 Oh my gosh, I'm sorry to hear about your complication as well. I hope the tachycardia doesn't present any problems for you! Take care, and keep me posted on how you are doing.
ScolioGirl13 1 year ago
@riek993 im doing great thahnks
riek993 1 year ago
@riek993 im doing great thahnks
i hope you doing great to
riek993 1 year ago
Hey, my name's Katlyn. I had surgery a few years ago & it has always been a real rough, emotional memory. The experience was so hard to go thru. Seeing ur pictures got me really emotional, but it helped a lot, b/c it reminded me how far I've come since then. I needed a good cry anyway lol. I know I dont know u, but I feel this strange connection & feel that I need to say I am proud of u for going through that. It looks like u did good. I hope all is well now:) Thank you for posting this video :)
browneyedbabe987 1 year ago
Hey, my name's Katlyn. I had surgery a few years ago & it has always been a real rough, emotional memory. The experience was so hard to go thru. Seeing ur pictures got me really emotional, but it helped a lot, b/c it reminded me how far I've come since then. I needed a good cry anyway lol. I know I dont know u, but I feel this strange connection & feel that I need to say I am proud of u for going through that. It looks like u did good. I hope all is well now:) Thank you for posting this video :)
browneyedbabe987 1 year ago
Hi im Stacey im goin to find out about surgery tomorrow in Dallas Im soo scared! I have had it for 3 YEARS and there just now talkin about surgery! Just wanted to ask a couple of Questions. Does it hurt to bend? And is it hard to sleep right after? You are very brave!! Hope to here back soon :)
ROSEMARIE12ful 1 year ago
@ROSEMARIE12ful Hey Stacey!! I hope you're appointment went very well yesterday! I'll be hoping the best for you! :) Those are fabulous questions but everyone's pain tolerance and journey is very different. However for me personally, It did hurt during my recovery to bend but now I can bend without pain nearly all the time! It was also hard for me to get used to sleeping post-op but once I got more used to my "new" back and what kinds of pillows helped me I started sleeping more like normal.
ScolioGirl13 1 year ago
((Continued)) In general I would say to ask your doctor all the questions you may have to determine the best decision for you. Good luck Stacey and I really hope all goes well for you! Never give up, ~Katie
ScolioGirl13 1 year ago
hi katie!! i wanted to ask you a couple questions.
did you have pain BEFORE the surgery, like when bending over/laying down? i do and i have to lay on my right side to sleep :(
how bad was the pain AFTER surgery, like waking up? and also months after.
did surgery correct the lump in your back?
also do you have any recomendations of surgery centers near virginia? i only know if chkd.
i have about a 60deg curve and i'm also overweight if that helps you.
thanks for the vid your an inspiration!!
xkatiesaur16 1 year ago
@xkatiesaur16 Hey, thank you for watching my video-I'm glad it could help. I am so sorry to hear that you had pain before surgery :(, I did not have pain before surgery and chose to do the surgery to make me structurally healthy. I did not have a rib hump that needed to be fixed but it did make my shoulder-blades much more even. As far as pain goes though, that is a very personal thing. Everyone's pain tolerance is very different and also their journeys are very unique.
ScolioGirl13 1 year ago
((continued)) When you are in the hospital you are on lots of medications and the nurses and doctors do everything they can to keep you as comfortable as you can but yes I was in pain. :( It does get better though, you just have to be patient. As far as surgery centers in Virginia goes I have no idea because I don't live there but definitely ask people in your area so you can make the best decision you can! Good luck, ~Katie
ScolioGirl13 1 year ago
Wow you are very brave! It's a miracle on how quicky you recovered. Well i found out i have scoliosis two years and it was very little now it is Hurting me and i can't sleep at night anymore i have a apointment September 13 to find out if i have to have surgery or not. well i think your are a brave girl and i would love to have your support Please :) If u would email me at Stacyreed6481@yahoo.com
ROSEMARIE12ful 1 year ago
Hey, I really enjoyed your video. :)
I had my scoliosis fusion 4 months ago (exactly!) so I can relate to a lot of what you experienced.
I had a curve of 55 degress pre-op and now it's under 10 degrees!
I spent 9 days in the hospital (longer than normal as i had an illeus - my stomach stopped working - after my operation).
I know how hard the recovery is, and I still only feel 50% well, so I think you should be really proud of all you have accomplished following your surgery!
xxxxxx
sariberri11 1 year ago
KATIE! My name is Megan and I just wanted to say you are one of my heros! My best friend whose name happens to be Katie as well, had scoliosis. She went through surgery back in december at St. Louis childrens hospital. Within 8 - 12 hours of her surgery, she was up and walking around. I went to go visit her and I cried so much because I missed her and wanted to be there every second of her operation. When I saw this, I cried, I smiled and I cheered you on through your struggles and am in awe!
floralpillow 1 year ago
Hey, i have just found ot i have scoliosis and my curve is 70degree and increasin rapidly :| it scares me. i need a opin 2months but first i am goin for a MRI scan,i think your really brave and wud love your support pleaase :) if u cud email me on my addy pleaase
samanthaluvjonny@msn.com thaankyou x
samanthajay131 1 year ago
@samanthajay131 Hey. I am so sorry to hear that you just found out you have such a big curve. It is scary but I bet you will do great with it!! Looking for information and becoming knowledgeable is a great idea so congratulations! Haha. That's a good step. :) I hope your MRI goes really well. Just make sure that you understand everything and are com0ofportable with your doctor. :) I would love to support you and will send you an e-mail now. Never give up, ~Katie
ScolioGirl13 1 year ago
@ScolioGirl13 Thankyou for your support it means alot :)
samanthajay131 1 year ago
Hi Alice!! Thank you so much, I was super excited to climb again! Good luck with your surgery and upcoming recovery!! I will be thinking about you! :) At 2 months post-op I could sit for about an hour at a time but if I stood up before I got antsy I could sit for a longer amount of time over all-maybe 2.5 hours with frequent standing up. I would go for about a 3/4 of a mile walk at that point. I had many complications though so most people are more mobile at that point. Never give up! ~Katie
ScolioGirl13 1 year ago
Hi katie my name is kara in 9 days i will be 4 month postop from my scoliosis surgery
UCDMC 1 year ago
Hi Kara!! Congratulations on getting through the surgery! How are you feeling?? I hope you are doing well! :) Never give up, ~Katie
ScolioGirl13 1 year ago
im having surgery june 25 2010, and your video.. is what helped me make a decision me and you have the SAME EXACT surgery operation and curve. mine is 48 and there will be 16 screws and 2 rods i have a question did you wear a bracce after surgery please email me back PLEASE i need to ask somethings im so scared :/ stepaway10@yahoo.com please message me bacl
MrsStephyBear 1 year ago
Comment removed
molera2 1 year ago
Hi Molera2! I am so sorry to hear that so quickly after learning you had scoliosis you are faced with surgery. I could only imagine how tough that is. My best advise would be to make a list of all the questions you have and ask them all to your surgeon so you can get all the things you are wondering about answered. After surgery it is hard to learn to live with your new back as you go places for the first time post-op and I found that having a small pillow with me to adapt chairs was great!
ScolioGirl13 1 year ago
@molera2 (part 2) I wish you the best of luck and a speedy recovery. This surgery was very tough but I don't ever regret having it done. If you have any questions don't hesitate to ask me. Good luck and never give up, ~Katie :)
ScolioGirl13 1 year ago
@ScolioGirl13 thx so much for the advice.:)
molera2 1 year ago
How much school did you miss for the operation?
MrMusicstone 1 year ago
@MrMusicstone: If you have scoliosis, I hope you find the treatment that works best for you! My recovery was supposed to be 6 weeks but we planned it so that the beginning of my leave was over a break and such so I would only miss 4 weeks of new material. Unfortunately I had a longer recovery then expected and it took 2 more weeks beyond my first 6 weeks home to be able to go to ALL of my classes. Everyone is different but that was how it was for me. Take care and never give up! ~Katie
ScolioGirl13 1 year ago
My names Katie too- I had the same operation this year haha
Arihora1 1 year ago
@Arihora1 Hey Katie, that's so funny! How are you doing?
ScolioGirl13 1 year ago
@ScolioGirl13
Very well thanks (:
Arihora1 1 year ago
Hi, I have scoliosis too and thought your video was quite inspirational :) I may have to have the surgery too but it's borderline so the doctor wants to watch it longer before deciding. Can you please tell me how flexible you are after the surgery? Pain aside, can you arch your back forward and backwards, and bend over and everything still? Thanks!
stressedoutstudent 1 year ago
Hi stressedoutstudent. Those are great questions! I can lean forward and lean to both sides but I do not currently touch my toes or do back bends. Those are things that I was personally never very good at anyways but also don't really want to try. I have heard some people say they can do so post-op though, it just all depends on where exactly you are fused. I wish you all the best if you do need surgery! If you have any other questions I would love to talk with you! Never give up, ~Katie
ScolioGirl13 1 year ago
your friend is efffing hot as
killzone474 2 years ago
haha thank you!!
shellybelly5250 1 year ago
why... are you her?
killzone474 1 year ago
Because of how strong my bones were it took 12 hrs and 25 min.
And also I was a gymnast A gymnast hopeing to someday go to the olympics but ever since my surgery that dream is over
XxToxicCookiesXx 2 years ago
I am 12 years old and I had to get my surgery may 19 2009 My Scoliosis was so ad that I ended up haveing to get surgery I had 2 curves Top was 79 and bottom was 65 but because of my age and how my body was prossecing We had to wait after 4 months we went back It got much worse when we got back my spine ended up to be 89 and 73 So we couldnt wait any longer. Because of how cricked my spine was the doctors could not get it perfectly straight so now my curves are 25 and 12
XxToxicCookiesXx 2 years ago
Hey XxToxicCookiesXx! I am so sorry to hear that you are not able to do gymnastics post-op. The hardest thing is seeing the good of the surgery and how much it has helped you over the limitations. I always try to remind myself that this surgery gave me the best future I could have where I will be straight and less likely to have complications so I can be happy! I hope you can continue to feel better to get back to being more and more active. Take care! Never give up, ~Katie
ScolioGirl13 2 years ago
i had this surgery and it was tuff the first few weeks so was the pain me and my family had to go thru ---demi502--surgery date:august 12 2009
Demi502 2 years ago
Hi Demi502. I am so sorry you went through so much pain. I understand completely, the surgery was really tough but I am glad I did it and I hope you feel the same way! Keep healing! :)
ScolioGirl13 2 years ago
Comment removed
Demi502 2 years ago
you're so brave! I need to have this surgery done and watching it makes me feel like i'm not alone...how long before you started feeling better?? and what kinda stuff are you able to do now? like bending twisting, does your back still feel stiff?? sorry for all the questions just preparing myself =)
dhsnowflakes 2 years ago
Hey dhsnowflakes, thank you so much! I am glad my movie could help you because you are definitely not alone in this! Everyone's recovery is very different but for me personally, I was walking fairly steadily in about 4 days (but I got sick after that which is not normal so that changed my later recovery).
ScolioGirl13 2 years ago
Now at One Year Post-Op I can do nearly anything I want I just always chose to think of my back before jumping into things. I can turn to look over my shoulder when I drive and I clean forward without feeling the rods. I do feel stiff sometimes now but definitely not the majority of the time- for most days I dont feel any stiffness at all! I hope this helps! If you have any other questions feel free to ask and I hope your surgery goes really well! Never give up, ~Katie
ScolioGirl13 2 years ago
Hi Ursuatlanta. I am so sorry to hear that you need Spinal Fusion but I am so glad my movie could help you out. Sorry it took me a few days to respond but I hope your fusion went really well! Feel free to ask me any questions you may have and in the meantime I hope you are recovering really well!! Take care!
ScolioGirl13 2 years ago
hi katie! I'm already 18 and I have 60* curve (maybe higher now)
I'm afraid I won't be able to get past the surgery. I don't want to think about not living anymore, but I can't think of a clear future with my scoliosis.
I wish I could be as brave as you are. When I have the money, I'd gladly go through the surgery.
missjunegirl03 2 years ago
Hi MissJuneGirl03.Thank you for watching my movie.I am sorry to hear that you have a high curve.I have found that thinking positively about the surgery but educating myself about the risks and restrictions was the best thing I did to be confident for my surgery. (But thank you for saying I was brave) I am sure that you can do whatever you set your mind to!
ScolioGirl13 2 years ago
I am sorry to hear that you do not have the money for the surgery right now, I understand that. While I can not attest to not having the surgery there are some people who have high curves and are able to find relief and help through yoga and other sources so maybe you could try looking into those. I hope you are able to find a health plan that works well for you! Never give up, ~Katie
ScolioGirl13 2 years ago
hi katie, i've been wearing braces before but now, my doctor won't allow me anymore coz he wants me to undergo a surgery..
Im so afraid of it..
really,,
infact, after the x-ray, i'd rather choose to go outside that to hear what the doctor might say..
now, there's no other choice but surgery..
i am afraid the surgery might fail. and i wont be able to live anymore,
was the surgery painful?
sugarikka1 2 years ago
Hey! I am so sorry to hear that you need surgery and are so worried for it. The surgery was tough, but I feel it was the best choice I could have ever made! People feel differently and have very different recoveries after surgery, but for me during my early recovery I was mostly stiff and sore and would have throbs of pain and what I described as shooting pains-warm pains that moved down my scar. Just be sure to tell your doctors and nurses so they can make you comfortable as you can be!
ScolioGirl13 2 years ago
Never give up, ~Katie
ScolioGirl13 2 years ago
Hey. Absolutely! I would love to hear any more questions you have. Good luck at your appointment, I hope it goes well. And thank you so much, I'm sure you will be amazingly brave as well! Take care, ~Katie
ScolioGirl13 2 years ago
Katee :( so this is what your going though.. i decided to watch this vid till the very end as i wanted to know more about what you doing through.. and i promise and hope i can always be here for you, your a strong girl and an amazing friend
and to katiee whos vid this is,, sorry about the random comment.. but ur so brave <3 im glad you have your live back on track, your someone to admire xD and im glad ur ok : D
xLaviChii 2 years ago
Hey. Thank you so much xLaviChii. No worries. I understand. It's awesome that you are there for your friend. ~Katie
ScolioGirl13 2 years ago
Hey. Absolutely! I keep running out of characters but I had one more message. Haha. I am back to doing nearly everything I did post-op I just automatically do them in a way that is better for my back. If you ever have any more questions feel free to send me an e-mail or even if you just want to talk more. I hope you are able to come up with a decision that works out well for you. Never give up, ~Katie
ScolioGirl13 2 years ago
Hey. I am so sorry you are going through all this. I just want to say though, that it is completely normal to be nervous! It is a hard decision but in the end I consider surgery the biggest but best decision I ever made. My surgeon did wait until my curve was over 45* to talk about surgery, but all of the doctors have different surgery lines.
ScolioGirl13 2 years ago
Recovery was hard but it was also very rewarding and I had so much support from my amazing nurses, family and friends that I actually have good memories from the hospital too. As far as pain goes your doctors come up with a pain plan so that you are as comfortable as possible while you are in the hospital. I know of some people who even went right back to dancing after only a couple months post-op, you just have to work on it.
ScolioGirl13 2 years ago
hi katie. this ur video is so helpful for me! i have scoliosis and i will be getting the boston brace very soon. you helped me believe that the brace will work in keeping my back from getting worse. thank you!(:
heyheychels 2 years ago
Hi. I am so glad my video could help you. I wore Boston Braces too as you saw and if you have any questions I would love to answer them for you! Take care, ~Katie
ScolioGirl13 2 years ago
Hey im a 17 year old male with scoliosis....my curve is in my lower back and its at 27 when just 3 months ago it was at 20...i love to lift weights and hang out with friends and really dont want to have to use a brace...i was just wondering if it really helps..the brace that is.
Monkeycripler 2 years ago
Hey! I do feel that my brace helped control my curve. I think some people feel the braces "don't work" bc many people think they will fix the curve. The braces job isn't really to fix the curve but to help hold it or minimize the progression while you are growing to get your maximum growth. I wore my brace for 4 years and while my curve still did get worse and I needed surgery, I think it would have gotten much worse had I not. Let me know if you have any other q's I would love to talk!~Katie
ScolioGirl13 2 years ago
Hi Katie, Your video is wonderful! You're really brave too with all that climbing! How are you getting on at the moment? Louba :o))
loubafly 2 years ago
Hi Louba!
Thank you so much! I am doing really well! I am definitely living my dream! I have no pain at all and when I'm seated I can lean all the way to the floor and not feel the rods at all. It is quite amazing. I hope you get there soon! Keep healing and thanks for watching, ~Katie
ScolioGirl13 2 years ago
Hi Katie my name is Kirstie Im 11half years old . I love your scolioss video. I also have scolioss surgrey and Im having it done at Starship hospital. how old are you now and how old were you when you had surgrey. and what year did you have your surgrey. I am sorry that you got really sick. and where do you live? anyway I was wondering if you wanted to be freinds and talk to me on youtube?
Jettybooboo 2 years ago
Hey Kirstie! Thank you for your sweet comment! I would absolutely love to be your friend and talk with you! I will add you right now! To answer your questions, I am 16 years old (but in one week I will be 17!) and I had the surgery 10 months ago when I was 16. My surgery was on January 13th 2009 and I live in California. I am sorry to hear that you too have scoliosis but I would absolutely love to talk with you and answer any questions you may have. Take care and talk to you soon, ~Katie
ScolioGirl13 2 years ago
Hey katie! Would just like to say, great video! it really helps people when you post them here so we can watch and learn! So thank you:) I had the surgery about four weeks ago, and i'm doing pretty well. Your surgery and your stay at the hospital, reminded me alot about my own. The only problem I have is that i'm still pretty stiff, i still have problems putting my socks. so i just wondered, had you that same problem and when could you bend "normal" again without pain?
Take care! huugs:)
fruudismudi 2 years ago
Hey! Thank you so much, that is exactly why I posted the movie! I am so glad to know that I could be of help! Well first of all I hope you feel better soon and great question! Everyone is different but this is how it was for me. I was in the hospital for 2 weeks so by the time I left I was fairly independent but still did everything super spine neutral to avoid pain. At almost 6 weeks exactly I was able to start sitting through classes
ScolioGirl13 2 years ago
I began doing more and more for the next 3 months but I was still slightly stiff but not in as much pain. The important thing to realise is you are doing more that causes the stiffness so you are still doing much better! At 6 months post-op I stopped having pain and couldn't even feel the rods. Now at 9 months I learned that apparently I have been able to (for quite some time) bend (out of spine neutral) without pain!!! So I can do anything!
ScolioGirl13 2 years ago