I dont know what to do anymore with my back (scoliosis) PLEASE HELP!

Posted , 4 users are following.

Hello,

This is my first post because I didn't know what else to do, so ill keep it short&sweet.

Im 18 and since I was 14 ive had chronic back pain, when I was 14 a doctor told me I would be in a wheelchair by the time I was 21 without diagnosing me with anything. For years I have battled for a diagnosis with the NHS and last week was diagnosed with Scoliosis. Im happy to be diagnosed but now im at a dead end. Im constantly in pain, for at-least one day a week I cant walk and maybe the worst of all I cant take part in any college activities like days out and group activities because either im not aloud for health and safety reasons or because im in too much pain. Ive become isolated and lonely and constantly in pain. The doctors give me co-codomol and it makes me feel drunk all day.

I need a back brace but I cant afford one, and I dont know if the NHS could get me one but I dont know what else to do.

I'd appreciate any reply's, thankyou

0 likes, 6 replies

6 Replies

  • Posted

    Hi

    I think the first thing you should do is Change your doctor as he is living in the middle ages. You need to be referred to a specialist.  If you do need a brace you will be supplied with one.  Don't sit back and take the pain you can get help.  Good luck x

  • Posted

    Hi there

    I had back problems most of my life too. The last lot of doctors I had told me it was sciatica. 

    How wrong they were! 

    Little did I know all my life I've had scoliosis myself, my mother had curvature of the spine too. It can be hereditary. 

    Anyway when I moved last year, I went to a new doctor. Luckily I was sent to an osteopath, they deal specifically with the back. 

    I would advise you to get your GP to go to the osteopath, to see what can be done. 

    It also depends where you have the scoliosis aswell. 

    If it's at the top or in the middle they can operate,

    By putting steel rods in your back to straighten it. 

    But for me I can only exercise. The scoliosis in my back is right on the lower part of my back , which goes to the right side it's not straight.

    There is no operation for me it's too much of a risk. I have lost some height from it, all I can do is take paracetamol, and lay down or do my exercises. Another thing you can go to sessions that should be available to you where a therapist and a psychologist show you how to deal with the stress and breathing exercises, it's about learning to live with the condition, and learning to pace yourself in everyday activities. Go see about it. I don't know where you live I'm in London, but please insist you get more done okay Hun good luck 🐥

    • Posted

      I tried to get a appointment with my doctor today and she said she would call instead of a appointment and I asked for a MRI because I need to know where my pain is coming from and she said no.

      Dont know what to dosad

       

  • Posted

    Hi Chloeanne,

    Sorry to hear of your problems.  I agree with mandymi, it's time to change your doctor, you don't appear to be getting the help you need.  Why has it taken so long to get a diagnosis?  Scholiosis can usually be seen with the naked eye!  Who gave you the diagnisis? GP or Consultant?  If you haven't seen a Consultant, ask to be referred immediately.  You don't say what type of curve you have, what part of the back is affected or degreee of curve.  Have you had x-rays and measurements taken?  If not, ask for them so you know exactly what you're dealing with.  Ask to see a physiotherapist for a specific set of exercises to help your particular problem and then do the exercises faithfully every day.  Yes, every day, it will be worth it.  I have had an 'S' curve since I was 15 (now 64) and as well as an exercise programme from the physo I took up yoga which made a massive difference.  Swimming also helps.  You have to take control, not let it control you.  If you need  a brace I'm sure you will be given one.  If not, get back to your doctor, explain the circumstances and ask for help.  

    With regard to outings I can't see where health and safety comes into any of this.  What sort of activities are involved?  The only activity I was ever told to avoid was horse riding due to the jarring.  Don't be fobbed off, if you want to go on outings, speak to the person in charge, discuss any limitations you have.

    If you're feeling isolated and lonely speak to a councillor at the college or at your surgery.  There's plenty of help out there, don't be afraid to ask for it.  

    Best wishes and let us know how you're getting on.

    Curvey

     

  • Posted

    Chloeanne,

    Just one more thing Google Scoliosis Association (UK).  There's a mine of information and help available there.

    Curvey

  • Posted

    Thankyou for everyone replying, my doctor just called and said i do not warrent a scan of my back. Im so upset and dont know what to do now. I have the symptoms of spinal cancer and they will not give me a scan:'( 

    Is there any other way I can get one?

    Thankyou for everyones advice

    Chloe

Report or request deletion

Thanks for your help!

We want the community to be a useful resource for our users but it is important to remember that the community are not moderated or reviewed by doctors and so you should not rely on opinions or advice given by other users in respect of any healthcare matters. Always speak to your doctor before acting and in cases of emergency seek appropriate medical assistance immediately. Use of the community is subject to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and steps will be taken to remove posts identified as being in breach of those terms.