Kyphosis

[gcevcupwiaziweeve]

I've had this condition since I was 12 and had a horrible few years in a Milwalkee Brace and then an almost full body plaster jacket. As you can imagine I got a lot a verbal abuse at school over this and I really hated any form of exercise because it was all linked to improving my condition and I hated my physiotherapy.

However, now I really enjoy exercising and now I do Pilates regularly and have a one to one Personal Training session a week with exercises focusing on developing my back, especially my upper back as well as developing the usual areas and incorporating cardio vascular workouts.

I'm not keen on swimming as I find that chlorine irritates my skin and yoga is too difficult for me to do. I have also done a day course in the Alexander Technique, but to be honest I really don't think there is much else I can do as it is extremely unlikely my posture will improve drastically and secondly they will not operate on my back.

I'm more confident than I was, but I do get upset when I look at the mirror and see my poor posture and the thing that really, really upsets me is that I read everywhere it being called 'Hunchback'. I think this is extremely hurtful to call this condition by that name, I was called that name throughout my teenage years to the point where I became very depressed and had to see my GP about it. I hate reading about my condition because everything seems so unsympathetic and insensitive.

Has anyone else got kyphosis or no anyone else who has it (preferbly adults) and how are you coping with it?

Gemma xx

 

[bigeightteeninch]

hi gemstone i think you should look into rolfing it could reduce the excessive curvature that you are suffering from. You would be expected to commit to 10 sessions to give the therapist a good chance to make lasting benifits.
regards steve

 

[metalis4ever]

I was told about rolfing during a hospital visit. Does it hurt though? The guy gave me a demo and it was extremely uncomfortable. Where would I get this done though and how would it actually help me, since my bones have set?

Gemma xx

 

[*SUGAR* says rawrrrr]

Your bones may feel like they are set or locked in position but rolfing can release this.Yes it can be painful form of treatment but there is no easy way to mobilize your spine after such a long time in this condition.
There are 2 rolfers listed in London on the HP directory am sure if you contact them you will be able to get better advice than i can give.
regards steve

 

[NOUB]

I think that some 'Therapeutic Discomfort' is a small price to pay, given the benefits, but would add that some osteopathic treatment would likely speed things up as it would directly address the restricted joints.

You mention a sensitivity to chlorine, so wonder if you have a problem metabolising calcium, so would as if you have had a bone density scan?

Andrew.

 

[Kevin.Hiroki.Lee]

Rolfing is just one name for the therapy, Structural Integration.

You may find this helpful.

http://www.worldwidehealthcenter.net/directory-52.html

Lesley

 

[Kayla B]

hi gemma,
i have suffered for years with sheurmans disease of the throacic spine and have quite severe kyphosis, i have regular physiotherapy but nothing seems to work im always in pain, and i know what you mean about getting upset about seeing your reflection, my brother had some photos the other day and i look horrendous, i didnt realise it looked that bad and it is upsetting.

but there is lots of treatment out there like the above suggested i might give it a go too!
take care
abbi x