Does anyone know...

Hello, does anyone know of any doctors in this area, including Chattenooga, Nashville, Memphis, and Southern KY, who specialize in kyphosis correction through surgery for adults?  Also, if any of you have any resources concerning kyphosis please pass this info along...thanks everyone, as always!

Sorry kym... i haven't the slightest idea as to what kyphosis... google here I come! Hope you're doing well !

Okay, so did a fairy sit on the dashboard and take this AWESOME picture????  You look terrific.  I'll spare the details here and let you google...you'll see why I'm sensitive.  Only my bestest friends get to hear me discuss this and you guys have fallen into that group!

KYM, Do you have this kyphosis????? I read about it and didnt realize I could have it my aunt does have it. hummmmm are you ok. Annrenee

My whole life, congenital.  Years of my relatives telling me to straighten up not realizing that I am as straight as I can be.  I have wonderful posture but it doesn't show because of the kyphosis...I'm very sensitive about it but have finally decided to do something about it.  I have lost so much weight and just can't see living my life with this...it hurts physically and emotionally.  My muscles strain 24/7 to hold myself up and it leads to spasms and intense pain.  I can't lay on the floor and do ab crunches or pilates...I'm tired of it and ready to get on with my new life in every way!  I will need a lot of support from all of you as this will be an intensely painful recovery I am sure...and that is if the surgery is approved.  I don't think that will be a problem because it is needed as the pain gets worse and my breathing is compromised.  Thanks for your concern and I'm looking forward to seeing what other information I can get.

I know there are doctors in Nashville who do the surgical correction on adults. Several years ago a lady my husband worked with had this surgery. I have no idea who her doctor was though, or even what hospital she had it done at other than it being here in Nashville. I would start with Vanderbilt and go from there. Or, see if you can find an online support group for people with the condition and see what help you can get there.

Do you remember anything about her experience or her success or failure?  This is such a sensitive topic that it is hard to find information.  I found a support group but they are scattered over the country and only 150 members.  Thanks for the help and hope though...good to know there are some here for the finding!

I remember that she had very good results. Like you said, it was a very intense surgery. She was able to return to her desk job about 4 weeks post op. She did get special permission to wear sweat suit type clothing to work. (stretch waistbands, loose fitting, etc.) I wouldn't think you would have any trouble getting approval since the condition does inhibit your breathing and can eventually even compromise your heart.  I'm sure you will keep us updated on your progress. Just think how much safer and easier this surgery will be since you have lost so much weight. It still won't be easy, but it will be easier than it would have been before.

That is so nice to hear.  I found a support group online and joined last night.  I have already been pm'd by two people.  One is my age and had hers 10 weeks ago.   As for the weight, every time in the past that I have brought surgery up, no one would discuss it because of my weight.  This evening, when I brought it up to my PCP...he immediately smiled and said he knew it was "my time" and that he was excited for me.  WOW!!!

Here's a couple sites to look at: www.spineuniverse.com/displayarticle.php/article1437.html www.spineuniverse.com/displayarticle.php/article1009.html www.healthsystem.virginia.edu/uvahealth/adult_orthopaedics/kyphosis.cfm www.mayoclinic.com/health/kyphosis/DS00681 Just a few to get you started.  Good luck.