For Paige . . .

[Guest guest]

Hi, Paige --

I can't get the " reply " function to work right now, but I am replying to your

introductory post. I want to extend a warm welcome to you. It sounds as if you

are facing a very demanding and upsetting situation. I am sure that many of us

can empathize with you. I hope that our group can offer you some support and

possibly some useful practical advice. You are doing absolutely the right thing

in searching out a qualified expert to assess the damage done to your spine. It

does sound as if revision surgery -- whether now or later on -- may be your best

hope of improving the situation. If nothing else, a consult with a qualified and

experienced flatback revision surgeon should help you to understand exactly what

is wrong and what your options are for correcting the problem. (I don't really

understand how that one doctor could have told you you needed six operations!)

As you may know, one place you can get some additional information on flatback

syndrome and procedures for fixing it is our Feisty website. Try clicking on one

of the categories on the lefthand side of your monitor for various resource

articles and commentaries.

I wish I had an answer for you regarding a brace or some other kind of orthotic

device. I used a walker for several years before my revision, but I'm not sure

if that would provide sufficient support for you. Please be sure to discuss this

with the surgeon you see. And please keep us posted -- I know that others at

this group are concerned about your situation, as am I. I am sure you cam find a

capable specialist and get some of the answers you need -- but I know from

experience how hard and frustrating this can be.We'll certainly be thinking

about you and rooting for you all the way.

Best,