Guest guest Posted August 23, 2002 Report Share Posted August 23, 2002 Hi Melody~ Wow! Your story sounds almost identical to what we went through with our son Sam. He was casted weekly from 2 wks of age and then be had an Achilles tendon lengthening at 4 months of age. When the cast came off from that surgery two weeks later, I was disgusted. His foot looked absolutely the same. To make matter worse, five nurses had to hold my little baby down to take out seven stitches. It was too gut wrenching and I swore that I would never go through that again. (I had found this site about a week before my son's surgery. I 'thought' that we were doing the same thing) I went home and called Dr. Ponseti, who called me back within the hour. Dr. Ponseti wanted to wait one more week to let his foot heal from the surgery, so we went down to Iowa from WI a week later. Sam's foot was corrected with five casts and no further surgery or even a tenotomy! ( he had had 16 casts prior to that) Our previous Dr. had told us that Sam would need more surgery. His heel was still so high up that a stitch was actually left in it because they didn't see it. It was only after Dr. Ponseti corrected his foot and his heel dropped down that we saw the stitch. (after that stitch came out he hardly cried during casting anymore) It just makes me cringe to think that a stich was left in his foot because of improper correction. Lord only knows what would have happened if we didn't see Dr. Ponseti. Sam is now two and wears the FAB at night and is running around like gang busters. We just saw some old friends this weekend whom we hadn't seen in a year and they were so amazed to see his foot and to see him running like nothing was ever wrong. He is still not completely out of the woods yet, but we're optimistic that he won't need further surgery with extended FAB wear. Your son is seven months old and it's not too late for him to be treated with the Ponseti method. Since he is older, I would recommend going to Iowa if possible, but definitely make sure whatever Dr. you go to, to call Dr. Ponseti and verify that he would recommend them. (I hope that made sense.) I know this all might sound too good to be true. I know we wondered that as well. My husband had clubfeet also and so we and our family thought that surgery was the only option. In fact, my family was so upset at us for taking him to Iowa rather than shriners (shriners didn't offer the method at the time) that they hardly spoke to us during the whole time we went to Iowa. They thought I was dreaming if I thought casting would correct his foot. My only regret now is that I didn't do research sooner and find Dr. Ponseti so that my little boy didn't have to go through so many casts and an unnecessary surgery. Okay, I've gone on long enough. Welcome to the group and I hope you find help and support here. This is a wonderful resource in a warn and friendly environment. Suzanne ~ Mom to Sam (4-19-00) left clubfoot Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 23, 2002 Report Share Posted August 23, 2002 Hi Melody~ Wow! Your story sounds almost identical to what we went through with our son Sam. He was casted weekly from 2 wks of age and then be had an Achilles tendon lengthening at 4 months of age. When the cast came off from that surgery two weeks later, I was disgusted. His foot looked absolutely the same. To make matter worse, five nurses had to hold my little baby down to take out seven stitches. It was too gut wrenching and I swore that I would never go through that again. (I had found this site about a week before my son's surgery. I 'thought' that we were doing the same thing) I went home and called Dr. Ponseti, who called me back within the hour. Dr. Ponseti wanted to wait one more week to let his foot heal from the surgery, so we went down to Iowa from WI a week later. Sam's foot was corrected with five casts and no further surgery or even a tenotomy! ( he had had 16 casts prior to that) Our previous Dr. had told us that Sam would need more surgery. His heel was still so high up that a stitch was actually left in it because they didn't see it. It was only after Dr. Ponseti corrected his foot and his heel dropped down that we saw the stitch. (after that stitch came out he hardly cried during casting anymore) It just makes me cringe to think that a stich was left in his foot because of improper correction. Lord only knows what would have happened if we didn't see Dr. Ponseti. Sam is now two and wears the FAB at night and is running around like gang busters. We just saw some old friends this weekend whom we hadn't seen in a year and they were so amazed to see his foot and to see him running like nothing was ever wrong. He is still not completely out of the woods yet, but we're optimistic that he won't need further surgery with extended FAB wear. Your son is seven months old and it's not too late for him to be treated with the Ponseti method. Since he is older, I would recommend going to Iowa if possible, but definitely make sure whatever Dr. you go to, to call Dr. Ponseti and verify that he would recommend them. (I hope that made sense.) I know this all might sound too good to be true. I know we wondered that as well. My husband had clubfeet also and so we and our family thought that surgery was the only option. In fact, my family was so upset at us for taking him to Iowa rather than shriners (shriners didn't offer the method at the time) that they hardly spoke to us during the whole time we went to Iowa. They thought I was dreaming if I thought casting would correct his foot. My only regret now is that I didn't do research sooner and find Dr. Ponseti so that my little boy didn't have to go through so many casts and an unnecessary surgery. Okay, I've gone on long enough. Welcome to the group and I hope you find help and support here. This is a wonderful resource in a warn and friendly environment. Suzanne ~ Mom to Sam (4-19-00) left clubfoot Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 23, 2002 Report Share Posted August 23, 2002 Hi Melody~ Wow! Your story sounds almost identical to what we went through with our son Sam. He was casted weekly from 2 wks of age and then be had an Achilles tendon lengthening at 4 months of age. When the cast came off from that surgery two weeks later, I was disgusted. His foot looked absolutely the same. To make matter worse, five nurses had to hold my little baby down to take out seven stitches. It was too gut wrenching and I swore that I would never go through that again. (I had found this site about a week before my son's surgery. I 'thought' that we were doing the same thing) I went home and called Dr. Ponseti, who called me back within the hour. Dr. Ponseti wanted to wait one more week to let his foot heal from the surgery, so we went down to Iowa from WI a week later. Sam's foot was corrected with five casts and no further surgery or even a tenotomy! ( he had had 16 casts prior to that) Our previous Dr. had told us that Sam would need more surgery. His heel was still so high up that a stitch was actually left in it because they didn't see it. It was only after Dr. Ponseti corrected his foot and his heel dropped down that we saw the stitch. (after that stitch came out he hardly cried during casting anymore) It just makes me cringe to think that a stich was left in his foot because of improper correction. Lord only knows what would have happened if we didn't see Dr. Ponseti. Sam is now two and wears the FAB at night and is running around like gang busters. We just saw some old friends this weekend whom we hadn't seen in a year and they were so amazed to see his foot and to see him running like nothing was ever wrong. He is still not completely out of the woods yet, but we're optimistic that he won't need further surgery with extended FAB wear. Your son is seven months old and it's not too late for him to be treated with the Ponseti method. Since he is older, I would recommend going to Iowa if possible, but definitely make sure whatever Dr. you go to, to call Dr. Ponseti and verify that he would recommend them. (I hope that made sense.) I know this all might sound too good to be true. I know we wondered that as well. My husband had clubfeet also and so we and our family thought that surgery was the only option. In fact, my family was so upset at us for taking him to Iowa rather than shriners (shriners didn't offer the method at the time) that they hardly spoke to us during the whole time we went to Iowa. They thought I was dreaming if I thought casting would correct his foot. My only regret now is that I didn't do research sooner and find Dr. Ponseti so that my little boy didn't have to go through so many casts and an unnecessary surgery. Okay, I've gone on long enough. Welcome to the group and I hope you find help and support here. This is a wonderful resource in a warn and friendly environment. Suzanne ~ Mom to Sam (4-19-00) left clubfoot Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 23, 2002 Report Share Posted August 23, 2002 Hi, Melody, we're glad you're here! We know just how you feel. Don't lose hope.. there might be another way. Many of our children, too, were told would need the major surgery. But after switching to a true Ponseti method doctor, no longer did. Here are links to a couple of studies presented at the most recent conference of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons about the success of using the method in older children, and older children for whom other traditional treatment had not worked: http://www.aaos.org/wordhtml/anmt2002/sciprog/053.htm http://www.aaos.org/wordhtml/anmt2002/sciprog/052.htm May we ask where you are? We might be able to help you find out about a different doctor for another opinion. Would going to Iowa be a possibility for you? Many of us traveled far to get there, especially those of us with older children. There are low-cost ways to get there and stay while you're there. I hope we can help.. glad you posted.. and age 2, switched to Ponseti method at 3 months you can see pictures of her corrected foot in the Photos section here in a folder under her name > Hi, My name is Melody I am from the Clubfoot site. gave me the > addy to this page to join. Thank you . > > My son is now almost 7 months old and has been receivings casts since > he was 3 weeks, then had the achilles chord release in may at 3 1/2 > months, then casting again, then about 2 mo. ago was put into an AFO > splint. They informed me at his last appt that he is going to have > to go back into casting and have the reconstructive surgery on his > foot between 10-12 months of age. My heart broke when they took him > away from me to do surgery at 3 1/2 months, I can't bare the thought > of him going through the reconstructive one. It just makes me cry > everytime I think about it. I also have a 3 1/2 yr old who was born > with no problems at all. So, not sure how my baby got it. But I > just want him better without putting him through anymore surgeries. > told me of the Ponsetti method, so any advice or suggestions, > please I would really appreciate it. > > Thank you. > > Melody Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 23, 2002 Report Share Posted August 23, 2002 Hi, Melody, we're glad you're here! We know just how you feel. Don't lose hope.. there might be another way. Many of our children, too, were told would need the major surgery. But after switching to a true Ponseti method doctor, no longer did. Here are links to a couple of studies presented at the most recent conference of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons about the success of using the method in older children, and older children for whom other traditional treatment had not worked: http://www.aaos.org/wordhtml/anmt2002/sciprog/053.htm http://www.aaos.org/wordhtml/anmt2002/sciprog/052.htm May we ask where you are? We might be able to help you find out about a different doctor for another opinion. Would going to Iowa be a possibility for you? Many of us traveled far to get there, especially those of us with older children. There are low-cost ways to get there and stay while you're there. I hope we can help.. glad you posted.. and age 2, switched to Ponseti method at 3 months you can see pictures of her corrected foot in the Photos section here in a folder under her name > Hi, My name is Melody I am from the Clubfoot site. gave me the > addy to this page to join. Thank you . > > My son is now almost 7 months old and has been receivings casts since > he was 3 weeks, then had the achilles chord release in may at 3 1/2 > months, then casting again, then about 2 mo. ago was put into an AFO > splint. They informed me at his last appt that he is going to have > to go back into casting and have the reconstructive surgery on his > foot between 10-12 months of age. My heart broke when they took him > away from me to do surgery at 3 1/2 months, I can't bare the thought > of him going through the reconstructive one. It just makes me cry > everytime I think about it. I also have a 3 1/2 yr old who was born > with no problems at all. So, not sure how my baby got it. But I > just want him better without putting him through anymore surgeries. > told me of the Ponsetti method, so any advice or suggestions, > please I would really appreciate it. > > Thank you. > > Melody Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 23, 2002 Report Share Posted August 23, 2002 Hi, Melody, we're glad you're here! We know just how you feel. Don't lose hope.. there might be another way. Many of our children, too, were told would need the major surgery. But after switching to a true Ponseti method doctor, no longer did. Here are links to a couple of studies presented at the most recent conference of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons about the success of using the method in older children, and older children for whom other traditional treatment had not worked: http://www.aaos.org/wordhtml/anmt2002/sciprog/053.htm http://www.aaos.org/wordhtml/anmt2002/sciprog/052.htm May we ask where you are? We might be able to help you find out about a different doctor for another opinion. Would going to Iowa be a possibility for you? Many of us traveled far to get there, especially those of us with older children. There are low-cost ways to get there and stay while you're there. I hope we can help.. glad you posted.. and age 2, switched to Ponseti method at 3 months you can see pictures of her corrected foot in the Photos section here in a folder under her name > Hi, My name is Melody I am from the Clubfoot site. gave me the > addy to this page to join. Thank you . > > My son is now almost 7 months old and has been receivings casts since > he was 3 weeks, then had the achilles chord release in may at 3 1/2 > months, then casting again, then about 2 mo. ago was put into an AFO > splint. They informed me at his last appt that he is going to have > to go back into casting and have the reconstructive surgery on his > foot between 10-12 months of age. My heart broke when they took him > away from me to do surgery at 3 1/2 months, I can't bare the thought > of him going through the reconstructive one. It just makes me cry > everytime I think about it. I also have a 3 1/2 yr old who was born > with no problems at all. So, not sure how my baby got it. But I > just want him better without putting him through anymore surgeries. > told me of the Ponsetti method, so any advice or suggestions, > please I would really appreciate it. > > Thank you. > > Melody Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 23, 2002 Report Share Posted August 23, 2002 Thank you. I did email Dr. Ponseti and he already replied to me. Here is what he had his secretary say:August 23, 2002 Dear Mrs. Knusta: Your son's clubfoot is relapsing because he was placed in an AFO rather than a foot abduction brace (also called Denis Browne bar) after casting was complete. The foot abduction brace is the only effective way of maintaining the clubfoot correction. It consists of shoes attached to the ends of a metal bar. The shoe on the clubfoot side is turned outward to about 70 degrees, which is an overcorrected position. This problem should be treated as soon as possible and you should not wait until you settle in Orlando. There should be no need for reconstructive surgery. I feel this relapse can probably be treated by the application of a cast or two followed by the use of the foot abduction brace. If you would care to come here, we would be happy to treat your baby. Otherwise I can recommend Dr. Dobbs at the Shrine Hospital in St. Louis. His e-mail address is dobbsmatthew@... Phone 314 432-3600 Both Dr. Dobbs and I will be out of the office next week (or at least part of it) attending a clubfoot meeting in San Diego. However, if you would like to come here for treatment, Dr. Morcuende could see you on Friday, August 30. Dr. Morcuende is a pediatric orthopaedist who has worked with me for several years and is very competent in the treatment of clubfoot. His phone number is 319 384-8041. If you would like to speak with me, I will probably be here in the office today until about 3:00 and then will not return until Tuesday, September 3. My number is 39 356-3469. I.V. Ponseti, M.D.(Joyce Roller, secretary) Looking for Help or Advice On Clubfoot Hello. My name is Melody Knusta, and I gave birth to a beautiful healthy little boy on Feb 6, 2002. On that night when he was born we found that he had a clubfoot. They referred me to an Orthopeadic Surgeon at a Childrens Hospital. (Cardinal Glennon in St louis, Mo.) And he immediately started casting him every week. Then moved to every two weeks, then when my son was 3 1/2 months old he had the stretching of the achilles tendon surgery and put back into casts. And approximately 2 months later he was put into an AFO brace. He went back for his 2 month check up after getting the brace, and they say it looks pretty good, but he may have to go back into more casting for a while, and possibly have the reconstructive surgery at 10-12 months. I was absolutely terrified of him going through the first surgery, and they keep telling me if he has to have the second surgery it is considered a very major surgery for a child so young. And I joined an online support group and a very nice young lady named Trevillion I think sent me information on you and your procedure. And told me her story of success, and I am very interested in learning how I can have my son treated in the same manor. I can even take photos of his foot to show you if you would like. Just let me know. I live in Illinois and we are in the process of trying to relocate to Orlando, Florida. So if you could give me an suggestions or tell me who I could take my son to go see. It would be so appreciated. I don't think I can handle seeing my son go through another surgery. And the AFO I don't know that it is really working or not. He is 6 1/2 months old. Anything you can suggest or offer would mean a great deal to me and my husband, and my baby boy Trent. Thank you very much. Sincerely, Melody A. Knusta Now, the type of surgery he had at 3 1/2 months was a tiny incision in his heel where they clipped his tendon he had one stitch from it. Iknow he called it something but not sure what, I know he said an achilles tendon release. That is all I can remember about it. And now his foot looks as bad as the day he was born. SME456@... wrote:Hi Melody~ Wow! Your story sounds almost identical to what we went through with our son Sam. He was casted weekly from 2 wks of age and then be had an Achilles tendon lengthening at 4 months of age. When the cast came off from that surgery two weeks later, I was disgusted. His foot looked absolutely the same. To make matter worse, five nurses had to hold my little baby down to take out seven stitches. It was too gut wrenching and I swore that I would never go through that again. (I had found this site about a week before my son's surgery. I 'thought' that we were doing the same thing) I went home and called Dr. Ponseti, who called me back within the hour. Dr. Ponseti wanted to wait one more week to let his foot heal from the surgery, so we went down to Iowa from WI a week later. Sam's foot was corrected with five casts and no further surgery or even a tenotomy! ( he had had 16 casts prior to that) Our previous Dr. had told us that Sam would need more surgery. His heel was still so high up that a stitch was actually left in it because they didn't see it. It was only after Dr. Ponseti corrected his foot and his heel dropped down that we saw the stitch. (after that stitch came out he hardly cried during casting anymore) It just makes me cringe to think that a stich was left in his foot because of improper correction. Lord only knows what would have happened if we didn't see Dr. Ponseti. Sam is now two and wears the FAB at night and is running around like gang busters. We just saw some old friends this weekend whom we hadn't seen in a year and they were so amazed to see his foot and to see him running like nothing was ever wrong. He is still not completely out of the woods yet, but we're optimistic that he won't need further surgery with extended FAB wear. Your son is seven months old and it's not too late for him to be treated with the Ponseti method. Since he is older, I would recommend going to Iowa if possible, but definitely make sure whatever Dr. you go to, to call Dr. Ponseti and verify that he would recommend them. (I hope that made sense.) I know this all might sound too good to be true. I know we wondered that as well. My husband had clubfeet also and so we and our family thought that surgery was the only option. In fact, my family was so upset at us for taking him to Iowa rather than shriners (shriners didn't offer the method at the time) that they hardly spoke to us during the whole time we went to Iowa. They thought I was dreaming if I thought casting would correct his foot. My only regret now is that I didn't do research sooner and find Dr. Ponseti so that my little boy didn't have to go through so many casts and an unnecessary surgery. Okay, I've gone on long enough. Welcome to the group and I hope you find help and support here. This is a wonderful resource in a warn and friendly environment. Suzanne ~ Mom to Sam (4-19-00) left clubfoot Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 23, 2002 Report Share Posted August 23, 2002 Melody- I'm glad you heard back from Dr. Ponseti. If there are any questions we can answer for you to help you decide what your next steps will be, please ask. I noticed that there was a type-o on the area code for the Iowa phone number. It's area code 319. I wish I'd known that you live in southern Illinois, I was down visiting relatives in Mt. Olive last weekend, and could have arranged to meet you personally if you would have liked! (I live near Champaign) I have heard great things about Dr. Dobbs, and of course all of the doctors at the U of Iowa come highly recommended. I realize that your head is probably spinning from overload of information, worrying about travel expenses, insurance etc.... so just ask if you have any concerns- we'll try to help! Regards, & Hi Melody~ > > Wow! Your story sounds almost identical to what we went through with our son > Sam. He was casted weekly from 2 wks of age and then be had an Achilles > tendon lengthening at 4 months of age. When the cast came off from that > surgery two weeks later, I was disgusted. His foot looked absolutely the > same. To make matter worse, five nurses had to hold my little baby down to > take out seven stitches. It was too gut wrenching and I swore that I would > never go through that again. (I had found this site about a week before my > son's surgery. I 'thought' that we were doing the same thing) I went home > and called Dr. Ponseti, who called me back within the hour. Dr. Ponseti > wanted to wait one more week to let his foot heal from the surgery, so we > went down to Iowa from WI a week later. Sam's foot was corrected with five > casts and no further surgery or even a tenotomy! ( he had had 16 casts prior > to that) Our previous Dr. had told us that Sam would need more surgery. His > heel was still so high up that a stitch was actually left in it because they > didn't see it. It was only after Dr. Ponseti corrected his foot and his heel > dropped down that we saw the stitch. (after that stitch came out he hardly > cried during casting anymore) It just makes me cringe to think that a stich > was left in his foot because of improper correction. Lord only knows what > would have happened if we didn't see Dr. Ponseti. > > Sam is now two and wears the FAB at night and is running around like gang > busters. We just saw some old friends this weekend whom we hadn't seen in a > year and they were so amazed to see his foot and to see him running like > nothing was ever wrong. He is still not completely out of the woods yet, but > we're optimistic that he won't need further surgery with extended FAB wear. > > Your son is seven months old and it's not too late for him to be treated with > the Ponseti method. Since he is older, I would recommend going to Iowa if > possible, but definitely make sure whatever Dr. you go to, to call Dr. > Ponseti and verify that he would recommend them. (I hope that made sense.) > > I know this all might sound too good to be true. I know we wondered that as > well. My husband had clubfeet also and so we and our family thought that > surgery was the only option. In fact, my family was so upset at us for > taking him to Iowa rather than shriners (shriners didn't offer the method at > the time) that they hardly spoke to us during the whole time we went to Iowa. > They thought I was dreaming if I thought casting would correct his foot. My > only regret now is that I didn't do research sooner and find Dr. Ponseti so > that my little boy didn't have to go through so many casts and an unnecessary > surgery. > > Okay, I've gone on long enough. Welcome to the group and I hope you find > help and support here. This is a wonderful resource in a warn and friendly > environment. > > Suzanne ~ Mom to Sam (4-19-00) left clubfoot > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 23, 2002 Report Share Posted August 23, 2002 Thank you all of you so very much. I really appreciate this. Yes it is alot of information to take in, but its no more then a dr rambles on in a 15 min dr apt. I appreciate everything. I contacted Dr. Dobbs office and they wont even speak to me until I fill out an application for Shriners and they said it will have to get approval and now I am terrified that may be turned down, and I don't know how much time i have. We are in the middle of trying to relocate to Orlando Florida, and I noticed that they do not have a dr in that area or surrounding that does this type of Procedure. What should I do. My husband has an interview Monday in Fl and if they hire him he will have to start immediately. I would be more then willing to fly back and fourth because my children are more then worth it. I am just very worried about medical expenses. We are still trying to recover from his $4,000 first surgery. We have insurance but it isn't that good. Plus the $200 every week casting after 14 casts gets a little pricey. Well sorry to ramble. Thanks for listening and all of your help. Oh also if you don't mind I have a pregnancy website on Msn I posted your link on it. Cause I have another member whose daughter was born with club foot, and another member whose daughter was born with Trigger thumbs and is going through surgeries as we speak. If you have a site I can recommend for her, it would be much appreciated. Thank you. If you don't want me to put a link up to the site on my website please tell me and I will remove it. jennifertrevillian wrote:Melody- I'm glad you heard back from Dr. Ponseti. If there are any questions we can answer for you to help you decide what your next steps will be, please ask. I noticed that there was a type-o on the area code for the Iowa phone number. It's area code 319. I wish I'd known that you live in southern Illinois, I was down visiting relatives in Mt. Olive last weekend, and could have arranged to meet you personally if you would have liked! (I live near Champaign) I have heard great things about Dr. Dobbs, and of course all of the doctors at the U of Iowa come highly recommended. I realize that your head is probably spinning from overload of information, worrying about travel expenses, insurance etc.... so just ask if you have any concerns- we'll try to help! Regards, & Hi Melody~ > > Wow! Your story sounds almost identical to what we went through with our son > Sam. He was casted weekly from 2 wks of age and then be had an Achilles > tendon lengthening at 4 months of age. When the cast came off from that > surgery two weeks later, I was disgusted. His foot looked absolutely the > same. To make matter worse, five nurses had to hold my little baby down to > take out seven stitches. It was too gut wrenching and I swore that I would > never go through that again. (I had found this site about a week before my > son's surgery. I 'thought' that we were doing the same thing) I went home > and called Dr. Ponseti, who called me back within the hour. Dr. Ponseti > wanted to wait one more week to let his foot heal from the surgery, so we > went down to Iowa from WI a week later. Sam's foot was corrected with five > casts and no further surgery or even a tenotomy! ( he had had 16 casts prior > to that) Our previous Dr. had told us that Sam would need more surgery. His > heel was still so high up that a stitch was actually left in it because they > didn't see it. It was only after Dr. Ponseti corrected his foot and his heel > dropped down that we saw the stitch. (after that stitch came out he hardly > cried during casting anymore) It just makes me cringe to think that a stich > was left in his foot because of improper correction. Lord only knows what > would have happened if we didn't see Dr. Ponseti. > > Sam is now two and wears the FAB at night and is running around like gang > busters. We just saw some old friends this weekend whom we hadn't seen in a > year and they were so amazed to see his foot and to see him running like > nothing was ever wrong. He is still not completely out of the woods yet, but > we're optimistic that he won't need further surgery with extended FAB wear. > > Your son is seven months old and it's not too late for him to be treated with > the Ponseti method. Since he is older, I would recommend going to Iowa if > possible, but definitely make sure whatever Dr. you go to, to call Dr. > Ponseti and verify that he would recommend them. (I hope that made sense.) > > I know this all might sound too good to be true. I know we wondered that as > well. My husband had clubfeet also and so we and our family thought that > surgery was the only option. In fact, my family was so upset at us for > taking him to Iowa rather than shriners (shriners didn't offer the method at > the time) that they hardly spoke to us during the whole time we went to Iowa. > They thought I was dreaming if I thought casting would correct his foot. My > only regret now is that I didn't do research sooner and find Dr. Ponseti so > that my little boy didn't have to go through so many casts and an unnecessary > surgery. > > Okay, I've gone on long enough. Welcome to the group and I hope you find > help and support here. This is a wonderful resource in a warn and friendly > environment. > > Suzanne ~ Mom to Sam (4-19-00) left clubfoot > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 23, 2002 Report Share Posted August 23, 2002 Thank you all of you so very much. I really appreciate this. Yes it is alot of information to take in, but its no more then a dr rambles on in a 15 min dr apt. I appreciate everything. I contacted Dr. Dobbs office and they wont even speak to me until I fill out an application for Shriners and they said it will have to get approval and now I am terrified that may be turned down, and I don't know how much time i have. We are in the middle of trying to relocate to Orlando Florida, and I noticed that they do not have a dr in that area or surrounding that does this type of Procedure. What should I do. My husband has an interview Monday in Fl and if they hire him he will have to start immediately. I would be more then willing to fly back and fourth because my children are more then worth it. I am just very worried about medical expenses. We are still trying to recover from his $4,000 first surgery. We have insurance but it isn't that good. Plus the $200 every week casting after 14 casts gets a little pricey. Well sorry to ramble. Thanks for listening and all of your help. Oh also if you don't mind I have a pregnancy website on Msn I posted your link on it. Cause I have another member whose daughter was born with club foot, and another member whose daughter was born with Trigger thumbs and is going through surgeries as we speak. If you have a site I can recommend for her, it would be much appreciated. Thank you. If you don't want me to put a link up to the site on my website please tell me and I will remove it. jennifertrevillian wrote:Melody- I'm glad you heard back from Dr. Ponseti. If there are any questions we can answer for you to help you decide what your next steps will be, please ask. I noticed that there was a type-o on the area code for the Iowa phone number. It's area code 319. I wish I'd known that you live in southern Illinois, I was down visiting relatives in Mt. Olive last weekend, and could have arranged to meet you personally if you would have liked! (I live near Champaign) I have heard great things about Dr. Dobbs, and of course all of the doctors at the U of Iowa come highly recommended. I realize that your head is probably spinning from overload of information, worrying about travel expenses, insurance etc.... so just ask if you have any concerns- we'll try to help! Regards, & Hi Melody~ > > Wow! Your story sounds almost identical to what we went through with our son > Sam. He was casted weekly from 2 wks of age and then be had an Achilles > tendon lengthening at 4 months of age. When the cast came off from that > surgery two weeks later, I was disgusted. His foot looked absolutely the > same. To make matter worse, five nurses had to hold my little baby down to > take out seven stitches. It was too gut wrenching and I swore that I would > never go through that again. (I had found this site about a week before my > son's surgery. I 'thought' that we were doing the same thing) I went home > and called Dr. Ponseti, who called me back within the hour. Dr. Ponseti > wanted to wait one more week to let his foot heal from the surgery, so we > went down to Iowa from WI a week later. Sam's foot was corrected with five > casts and no further surgery or even a tenotomy! ( he had had 16 casts prior > to that) Our previous Dr. had told us that Sam would need more surgery. His > heel was still so high up that a stitch was actually left in it because they > didn't see it. It was only after Dr. Ponseti corrected his foot and his heel > dropped down that we saw the stitch. (after that stitch came out he hardly > cried during casting anymore) It just makes me cringe to think that a stich > was left in his foot because of improper correction. Lord only knows what > would have happened if we didn't see Dr. Ponseti. > > Sam is now two and wears the FAB at night and is running around like gang > busters. We just saw some old friends this weekend whom we hadn't seen in a > year and they were so amazed to see his foot and to see him running like > nothing was ever wrong. He is still not completely out of the woods yet, but > we're optimistic that he won't need further surgery with extended FAB wear. > > Your son is seven months old and it's not too late for him to be treated with > the Ponseti method. Since he is older, I would recommend going to Iowa if > possible, but definitely make sure whatever Dr. you go to, to call Dr. > Ponseti and verify that he would recommend them. (I hope that made sense.) > > I know this all might sound too good to be true. I know we wondered that as > well. My husband had clubfeet also and so we and our family thought that > surgery was the only option. In fact, my family was so upset at us for > taking him to Iowa rather than shriners (shriners didn't offer the method at > the time) that they hardly spoke to us during the whole time we went to Iowa. > They thought I was dreaming if I thought casting would correct his foot. My > only regret now is that I didn't do research sooner and find Dr. Ponseti so > that my little boy didn't have to go through so many casts and an unnecessary > surgery. > > Okay, I've gone on long enough. Welcome to the group and I hope you find > help and support here. This is a wonderful resource in a warn and friendly > environment. > > Suzanne ~ Mom to Sam (4-19-00) left clubfoot > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 23, 2002 Report Share Posted August 23, 2002 Thank you all of you so very much. I really appreciate this. Yes it is alot of information to take in, but its no more then a dr rambles on in a 15 min dr apt. I appreciate everything. I contacted Dr. Dobbs office and they wont even speak to me until I fill out an application for Shriners and they said it will have to get approval and now I am terrified that may be turned down, and I don't know how much time i have. We are in the middle of trying to relocate to Orlando Florida, and I noticed that they do not have a dr in that area or surrounding that does this type of Procedure. What should I do. My husband has an interview Monday in Fl and if they hire him he will have to start immediately. I would be more then willing to fly back and fourth because my children are more then worth it. I am just very worried about medical expenses. We are still trying to recover from his $4,000 first surgery. We have insurance but it isn't that good. Plus the $200 every week casting after 14 casts gets a little pricey. Well sorry to ramble. Thanks for listening and all of your help. Oh also if you don't mind I have a pregnancy website on Msn I posted your link on it. Cause I have another member whose daughter was born with club foot, and another member whose daughter was born with Trigger thumbs and is going through surgeries as we speak. If you have a site I can recommend for her, it would be much appreciated. Thank you. If you don't want me to put a link up to the site on my website please tell me and I will remove it. jennifertrevillian wrote:Melody- I'm glad you heard back from Dr. Ponseti. If there are any questions we can answer for you to help you decide what your next steps will be, please ask. I noticed that there was a type-o on the area code for the Iowa phone number. It's area code 319. I wish I'd known that you live in southern Illinois, I was down visiting relatives in Mt. Olive last weekend, and could have arranged to meet you personally if you would have liked! (I live near Champaign) I have heard great things about Dr. Dobbs, and of course all of the doctors at the U of Iowa come highly recommended. I realize that your head is probably spinning from overload of information, worrying about travel expenses, insurance etc.... so just ask if you have any concerns- we'll try to help! Regards, & Hi Melody~ > > Wow! Your story sounds almost identical to what we went through with our son > Sam. He was casted weekly from 2 wks of age and then be had an Achilles > tendon lengthening at 4 months of age. When the cast came off from that > surgery two weeks later, I was disgusted. His foot looked absolutely the > same. To make matter worse, five nurses had to hold my little baby down to > take out seven stitches. It was too gut wrenching and I swore that I would > never go through that again. (I had found this site about a week before my > son's surgery. I 'thought' that we were doing the same thing) I went home > and called Dr. Ponseti, who called me back within the hour. Dr. Ponseti > wanted to wait one more week to let his foot heal from the surgery, so we > went down to Iowa from WI a week later. Sam's foot was corrected with five > casts and no further surgery or even a tenotomy! ( he had had 16 casts prior > to that) Our previous Dr. had told us that Sam would need more surgery. His > heel was still so high up that a stitch was actually left in it because they > didn't see it. It was only after Dr. Ponseti corrected his foot and his heel > dropped down that we saw the stitch. (after that stitch came out he hardly > cried during casting anymore) It just makes me cringe to think that a stich > was left in his foot because of improper correction. Lord only knows what > would have happened if we didn't see Dr. Ponseti. > > Sam is now two and wears the FAB at night and is running around like gang > busters. We just saw some old friends this weekend whom we hadn't seen in a > year and they were so amazed to see his foot and to see him running like > nothing was ever wrong. He is still not completely out of the woods yet, but > we're optimistic that he won't need further surgery with extended FAB wear. > > Your son is seven months old and it's not too late for him to be treated with > the Ponseti method. Since he is older, I would recommend going to Iowa if > possible, but definitely make sure whatever Dr. you go to, to call Dr. > Ponseti and verify that he would recommend them. (I hope that made sense.) > > I know this all might sound too good to be true. I know we wondered that as > well. My husband had clubfeet also and so we and our family thought that > surgery was the only option. In fact, my family was so upset at us for > taking him to Iowa rather than shriners (shriners didn't offer the method at > the time) that they hardly spoke to us during the whole time we went to Iowa. > They thought I was dreaming if I thought casting would correct his foot. My > only regret now is that I didn't do research sooner and find Dr. Ponseti so > that my little boy didn't have to go through so many casts and an unnecessary > surgery. > > Okay, I've gone on long enough. Welcome to the group and I hope you find > help and support here. This is a wonderful resource in a warn and friendly > environment. > > Suzanne ~ Mom to Sam (4-19-00) left clubfoot > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 23, 2002 Report Share Posted August 23, 2002 Melody, I recommend that you either e-mail Dr. Dobbs or call and ask to talk to him personally or leave a message for him to call you back. H eshould be able to help you get the paperwork figured out. Also, there are some Ponseti method doctors in Florida although I don't think that we have had Parents on the Interent with 6 month old children go to them. Some of the Florida parents are on this site and should be able to give you some input. and (3-17-99) Hi Melody~ > > > > Wow! Your story sounds almost identical to what we went through > with our son > > Sam. He was casted weekly from 2 wks of age and then be had an > Achilles > > tendon lengthening at 4 months of age. When the cast came off from > that > > surgery two weeks later, I was disgusted. His foot looked > absolutely the > > same. To make matter worse, five nurses had to hold my little baby > down to > > take out seven stitches. It was too gut wrenching and I swore that > I would > > never go through that again. (I had found this site about a week > before my > > son's surgery. I 'thought' that we were doing the same thing) I > went home > > and called Dr. Ponseti, who called me back within the hour. Dr. > Ponseti > > wanted to wait one more week to let his foot heal from the surgery, > so we > > went down to Iowa from WI a week later. Sam's foot was corrected > with five > > casts and no further surgery or even a tenotomy! ( he had had 16 > casts prior > > to that) Our previous Dr. had told us that Sam would need more > surgery. His > > heel was still so high up that a stitch was actually left in it > because they > > didn't see it. It was only after Dr. Ponseti corrected his foot > and his heel > > dropped down that we saw the stitch. (after that stitch came out > he hardly > > cried during casting anymore) It just makes me cringe to think > that a stich > > was left in his foot because of improper correction. Lord only > knows what > > would have happened if we didn't see Dr. Ponseti. > > > > Sam is now two and wears the FAB at night and is running around > like gang > > busters. We just saw some old friends this weekend whom we hadn't > seen in a > > year and they were so amazed to see his foot and to see him running > like > > nothing was ever wrong. He is still not completely out of the > woods yet, but > > we're optimistic that he won't need further surgery with extended > FAB wear. > > > > Your son is seven months old and it's not too late for him to be > treated with > > the Ponseti method. Since he is older, I would recommend going to > Iowa if > > possible, but definitely make sure whatever Dr. you go to, to call > Dr. > > Ponseti and verify that he would recommend them. (I hope that made > sense.) > > > > I know this all might sound too good to be true. I know we > wondered that as > > well. My husband had clubfeet also and so we and our family > thought that > > surgery was the only option. In fact, my family was so upset at us > for > > taking him to Iowa rather than shriners (shriners didn't offer the > method at > > the time) that they hardly spoke to us during the whole time we > went to Iowa. > > They thought I was dreaming if I thought casting would correct his > foot. My > > only regret now is that I didn't do research sooner and find Dr. > Ponseti so > > that my little boy didn't have to go through so many casts and an > unnecessary > > surgery. > > > > Okay, I've gone on long enough. Welcome to the group and I hope > you find > > help and support here. This is a wonderful resource in a warn and > friendly > > environment. > > > > Suzanne ~ Mom to Sam (4-19-00) left clubfoot > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 23, 2002 Report Share Posted August 23, 2002 Melody, My daughter was treated at Shriner's--Twin Cities. I know they expedited our Shriner Application to get treated immediately. I would certainly make the application right away (it's like one or two pages and easy to fill out) and see if they accept you. Shriner's does not ask for reimbursement for their medical services...so, if you have to fly back and forth, atleast the medical expenses will be covered. Best Wishes! Amy & (6-10-01) On Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:08:22 -0700 (PDT) Melody Knusta wrote: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 23, 2002 Report Share Posted August 23, 2002 Melody, My daughter was treated at Shriner's--Twin Cities. I know they expedited our Shriner Application to get treated immediately. I would certainly make the application right away (it's like one or two pages and easy to fill out) and see if they accept you. Shriner's does not ask for reimbursement for their medical services...so, if you have to fly back and forth, atleast the medical expenses will be covered. Best Wishes! Amy & (6-10-01) On Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:08:22 -0700 (PDT) Melody Knusta wrote: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 23, 2002 Report Share Posted August 23, 2002 Melody, My daughter was treated at Shriner's--Twin Cities. I know they expedited our Shriner Application to get treated immediately. I would certainly make the application right away (it's like one or two pages and easy to fill out) and see if they accept you. Shriner's does not ask for reimbursement for their medical services...so, if you have to fly back and forth, atleast the medical expenses will be covered. Best Wishes! Amy & (6-10-01) On Fri, 23 Aug 2002 11:08:22 -0700 (PDT) Melody Knusta wrote: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 23, 2002 Report Share Posted August 23, 2002 I received an email back from Dr. Dobbs of St. Louis Shriners and St. Louis Children's Hospital. Here is what he had to say: I would be happy to treat your child and save you the hassle of further travel. As Dr. Ponseti told you, I will be at a meeting early next week, but will be back and having clinic on Thursday Aug 29 at st. Louis Chilren's Hospital--I work there as well as Shriners. I can see you on Thursday morning. If you would like to pursue this call my office at 314 454-4192. Let them know that I told you it was o.k. to put you on for Thursday. We should be able to treat your child with casts followed by a brace as Dr. Ponseti described. Respectfully yours: B. Dobbs, M.D. I don't know if that Hospital works the same as Shriners or not as far as payment. If anyone here knows I would appreciate any information on that hospital. I looked on the website and it didn't say or at least I didn't see it. And I have the application for Shriners should I go ahead and fill it out and send it in, but go ahead and take him thursday to see Dr. Dobbs and tell him I have already filled out the paper for Shriners? What should I do. We really can't afford too much more. Melody --------------------------------- Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 23, 2002 Report Share Posted August 23, 2002 I received an email back from Dr. Dobbs of St. Louis Shriners and St. Louis Children's Hospital. Here is what he had to say: I would be happy to treat your child and save you the hassle of further travel. As Dr. Ponseti told you, I will be at a meeting early next week, but will be back and having clinic on Thursday Aug 29 at st. Louis Chilren's Hospital--I work there as well as Shriners. I can see you on Thursday morning. If you would like to pursue this call my office at 314 454-4192. Let them know that I told you it was o.k. to put you on for Thursday. We should be able to treat your child with casts followed by a brace as Dr. Ponseti described. Respectfully yours: B. Dobbs, M.D. I don't know if that Hospital works the same as Shriners or not as far as payment. If anyone here knows I would appreciate any information on that hospital. I looked on the website and it didn't say or at least I didn't see it. And I have the application for Shriners should I go ahead and fill it out and send it in, but go ahead and take him thursday to see Dr. Dobbs and tell him I have already filled out the paper for Shriners? What should I do. We really can't afford too much more. Melody --------------------------------- Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 23, 2002 Report Share Posted August 23, 2002 I received an email back from Dr. Dobbs of St. Louis Shriners and St. Louis Children's Hospital. Here is what he had to say: I would be happy to treat your child and save you the hassle of further travel. As Dr. Ponseti told you, I will be at a meeting early next week, but will be back and having clinic on Thursday Aug 29 at st. Louis Chilren's Hospital--I work there as well as Shriners. I can see you on Thursday morning. If you would like to pursue this call my office at 314 454-4192. Let them know that I told you it was o.k. to put you on for Thursday. We should be able to treat your child with casts followed by a brace as Dr. Ponseti described. Respectfully yours: B. Dobbs, M.D. I don't know if that Hospital works the same as Shriners or not as far as payment. If anyone here knows I would appreciate any information on that hospital. I looked on the website and it didn't say or at least I didn't see it. And I have the application for Shriners should I go ahead and fill it out and send it in, but go ahead and take him thursday to see Dr. Dobbs and tell him I have already filled out the paper for Shriners? What should I do. We really can't afford too much more. Melody --------------------------------- Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 23, 2002 Report Share Posted August 23, 2002 I received an email back from Dr. Dobbs of St. Louis Shriners and St. Louis Children's Hospital. Here is what he had to say: I would be happy to treat your child and save you the hassle of further travel. As Dr. Ponseti told you, I will be at a meeting early next week, but will be back and having clinic on Thursday Aug 29 at st. Louis Chilren's Hospital--I work there as well as Shriners. I can see you on Thursday morning. If you would like to pursue this call my office at 314 454-4192. Let them know that I told you it was o.k. to put you on for Thursday. We should be able to treat your child with casts followed by a brace as Dr. Ponseti described. Respectfully yours: B. Dobbs, M.D. I don't know if that Hospital works the same as Shriners or not as far as payment. If anyone here knows I would appreciate any information on that hospital. I looked on the website and it didn't say or at least I didn't see it. And I have the application for Shriners should I go ahead and fill it out and send it in, but go ahead and take him thursday to see Dr. Dobbs and tell him I have already filled out the paper for Shriners? What should I do. We really can't afford too much more. Melody --------------------------------- Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 23, 2002 Report Share Posted August 23, 2002 I received an email back from Dr. Dobbs of St. Louis Shriners and St. Louis Children's Hospital. Here is what he had to say: I would be happy to treat your child and save you the hassle of further travel. As Dr. Ponseti told you, I will be at a meeting early next week, but will be back and having clinic on Thursday Aug 29 at st. Louis Chilren's Hospital--I work there as well as Shriners. I can see you on Thursday morning. If you would like to pursue this call my office at 314 454-4192. Let them know that I told you it was o.k. to put you on for Thursday. We should be able to treat your child with casts followed by a brace as Dr. Ponseti described. Respectfully yours: B. Dobbs, M.D. I don't know if that Hospital works the same as Shriners or not as far as payment. If anyone here knows I would appreciate any information on that hospital. I looked on the website and it didn't say or at least I didn't see it. And I have the application for Shriners should I go ahead and fill it out and send it in, but go ahead and take him thursday to see Dr. Dobbs and tell him I have already filled out the paper for Shriners? What should I do. We really can't afford too much more. Melody --------------------------------- Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 23, 2002 Report Share Posted August 23, 2002 I received an email back from Dr. Dobbs of St. Louis Shriners and St. Louis Children's Hospital. Here is what he had to say: I would be happy to treat your child and save you the hassle of further travel. As Dr. Ponseti told you, I will be at a meeting early next week, but will be back and having clinic on Thursday Aug 29 at st. Louis Chilren's Hospital--I work there as well as Shriners. I can see you on Thursday morning. If you would like to pursue this call my office at 314 454-4192. Let them know that I told you it was o.k. to put you on for Thursday. We should be able to treat your child with casts followed by a brace as Dr. Ponseti described. Respectfully yours: B. Dobbs, M.D. I don't know if that Hospital works the same as Shriners or not as far as payment. If anyone here knows I would appreciate any information on that hospital. I looked on the website and it didn't say or at least I didn't see it. And I have the application for Shriners should I go ahead and fill it out and send it in, but go ahead and take him thursday to see Dr. Dobbs and tell him I have already filled out the paper for Shriners? What should I do. We really can't afford too much more. Melody --------------------------------- Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 23, 2002 Report Share Posted August 23, 2002 Melody, I'd call the office, set up the appointment, and, when you do, ask about the application and insurance issues. Since he works with Shriners, I would think that someone in his office would be able to advise you on how to handle the paperwork. I think the most important thing would be to get in there as soon as possible and get the process started. This is really the last window of time to try the non-surgical method, which of course is very much less expensive than the major surgery in the long run (not to mention all the other reasons for trying to avoid it.) I think both Dr. Ponseti and Dr. Dobbs indicated, by their prompt responses and willingness to see your child as soon as possible, that further delay would not be good at this point. I'm sure it's overwhelming having so much new information to process and financial issues to weigh .. but take it one step at a time, ask for help from the staff, and I bet it will work out. You are fortunate to have the resource of an experienced Ponseti method doctor, and one affilitated with Shriners, so near to you. I hope this all works out well for you. Please let us know what happens next! and > > I received an email back from Dr. Dobbs of St. Louis Shriners and St. Louis Children's Hospital. Here is what he had to say: > > I would be happy to treat your child and save you the hassle of further > travel. As Dr. Ponseti told you, I will be at a meeting early next week, > but will be back and having clinic on Thursday Aug 29 at st. Louis Chilren's > Hospital--I work there as well as Shriners. I can see you on Thursday > morning. If you would like to pursue this call my office at 314 454-4192. > Let them know that I told you it was o.k. to put you on for Thursday. We > should be able to treat your child with casts followed by a brace as Dr. > Ponseti described. > > Respectfully yours: > > B. Dobbs, M.D. > > I don't know if that Hospital works the same as Shriners or not as far as payment. If anyone here knows I would appreciate any information on that hospital. I looked on the website and it didn't say or at least I didn't see it. And I have the application for Shriners should I go ahead and fill it out and send it in, but go ahead and take him thursday to see Dr. Dobbs and tell him I have already filled out the paper for Shriners? What should I do. We really can't afford too much more. > > Melody > > > > > > > > > > > --------------------------------- > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 23, 2002 Report Share Posted August 23, 2002 Melody, I'd call the office, set up the appointment, and, when you do, ask about the application and insurance issues. Since he works with Shriners, I would think that someone in his office would be able to advise you on how to handle the paperwork. I think the most important thing would be to get in there as soon as possible and get the process started. This is really the last window of time to try the non-surgical method, which of course is very much less expensive than the major surgery in the long run (not to mention all the other reasons for trying to avoid it.) I think both Dr. Ponseti and Dr. Dobbs indicated, by their prompt responses and willingness to see your child as soon as possible, that further delay would not be good at this point. I'm sure it's overwhelming having so much new information to process and financial issues to weigh .. but take it one step at a time, ask for help from the staff, and I bet it will work out. You are fortunate to have the resource of an experienced Ponseti method doctor, and one affilitated with Shriners, so near to you. I hope this all works out well for you. Please let us know what happens next! and > > I received an email back from Dr. Dobbs of St. Louis Shriners and St. Louis Children's Hospital. Here is what he had to say: > > I would be happy to treat your child and save you the hassle of further > travel. As Dr. Ponseti told you, I will be at a meeting early next week, > but will be back and having clinic on Thursday Aug 29 at st. Louis Chilren's > Hospital--I work there as well as Shriners. I can see you on Thursday > morning. If you would like to pursue this call my office at 314 454-4192. > Let them know that I told you it was o.k. to put you on for Thursday. We > should be able to treat your child with casts followed by a brace as Dr. > Ponseti described. > > Respectfully yours: > > B. Dobbs, M.D. > > I don't know if that Hospital works the same as Shriners or not as far as payment. If anyone here knows I would appreciate any information on that hospital. I looked on the website and it didn't say or at least I didn't see it. And I have the application for Shriners should I go ahead and fill it out and send it in, but go ahead and take him thursday to see Dr. Dobbs and tell him I have already filled out the paper for Shriners? What should I do. We really can't afford too much more. > > Melody > > > > > > > > > > > --------------------------------- > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 23, 2002 Report Share Posted August 23, 2002 Melody, I'd call the office, set up the appointment, and, when you do, ask about the application and insurance issues. Since he works with Shriners, I would think that someone in his office would be able to advise you on how to handle the paperwork. I think the most important thing would be to get in there as soon as possible and get the process started. This is really the last window of time to try the non-surgical method, which of course is very much less expensive than the major surgery in the long run (not to mention all the other reasons for trying to avoid it.) I think both Dr. Ponseti and Dr. Dobbs indicated, by their prompt responses and willingness to see your child as soon as possible, that further delay would not be good at this point. I'm sure it's overwhelming having so much new information to process and financial issues to weigh .. but take it one step at a time, ask for help from the staff, and I bet it will work out. You are fortunate to have the resource of an experienced Ponseti method doctor, and one affilitated with Shriners, so near to you. I hope this all works out well for you. Please let us know what happens next! and > > I received an email back from Dr. Dobbs of St. Louis Shriners and St. Louis Children's Hospital. Here is what he had to say: > > I would be happy to treat your child and save you the hassle of further > travel. As Dr. Ponseti told you, I will be at a meeting early next week, > but will be back and having clinic on Thursday Aug 29 at st. Louis Chilren's > Hospital--I work there as well as Shriners. I can see you on Thursday > morning. If you would like to pursue this call my office at 314 454-4192. > Let them know that I told you it was o.k. to put you on for Thursday. We > should be able to treat your child with casts followed by a brace as Dr. > Ponseti described. > > Respectfully yours: > > B. Dobbs, M.D. > > I don't know if that Hospital works the same as Shriners or not as far as payment. If anyone here knows I would appreciate any information on that hospital. I looked on the website and it didn't say or at least I didn't see it. And I have the application for Shriners should I go ahead and fill it out and send it in, but go ahead and take him thursday to see Dr. Dobbs and tell him I have already filled out the paper for Shriners? What should I do. We really can't afford too much more. > > Melody > > > > > > > > > > > --------------------------------- > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 24, 2002 Report Share Posted August 24, 2002 Thank you and I will let you know. I am going to go ahead and take him even if they have to bill my insurance. --------------------------------- Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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