Pain Relief Kit

Pain relief is a common discussion among Scoliosis patients and I have noticed this a lot on the support forum we run on Facebook so I decided to put my head together with the moderators so we can provide as much valuable information for pain relief of Scoliosis as we possibly can, therefore I have taken an image of the items I use for pain relief and Linda Anne Anderson from the group (who is one of our moderators) also put together some helpful words for those facing surgery and dealing with the pain afterwards.

When it comes to more mature people having surgery for scoliosis pain relief becomes a very pertinent issue.

As youngsters most of us may have been told that scoliosis does not cause pain. Our experience however is likely to have been very different and many considering surgery will be doing so after a lifetime of pain. They will have found ways of coping- usually involving heat pads and hot water bottles and OTC or perhaps prescription pain medications, possibly with occasional visits to physio. Many will have explored acupuncture, osteopathy etc but as the curve worsens and the pain most likely increases it is possible to look at surgery as a cure for the pain.

Teddy Bear Hot Water Bottle, Bottle of Wine, Electric Blankets neck and back, Walking Stick, Neck Pillow, Leg Wedge, Tens Machine, Twinnings Tea with Ginseng, Solvium Cream, Chocolate, Bowen Oil, Deep Freeze Spray, Voltarol Pain-eze, Nolotil Capsules, Ibuprofen (800mg), Gel Heat Pads, Back Brace (TLSO)

I think it is important here to have a reality check. I don't know of any surgeon who would operate for pain relief. Surgery is as we all know a massive undertaking and commitment, not to be considered lightly. It can produce some amazing results, the pedicle screw system can correct very severe curves, and those whose lung function is being affected - or likely to be in the future - can literally get a new lease of life.

I'm not sure anything can prepare you for the post op pain, however, which is of a very different nature to the pain you may have grown up with, come to know and cope with.

Immediately post op in hospital it is of course well controlled with opiates. Most older patients will come home with a supply of pretty heavy medications to see them through the very difficult first weeks. But perhaps the biggest challenge is weeks or months down the line. For most of us of more mature years the recovery is slow and there can be a time when things seem to plateau and you wonder if you will ever feel normal - or at least any better - again.

This is where you have to box clever with the pain. Take it on, don't give in to it. Fight back with distraction techniques - knitting seems to work well for many! Keep active, enjoy warm baths and showers, nice wine if it works for you, laughter with friends to take your mind off of it. Live your life - don't let the pain win or get the better of you.

Gradually you should find that things improve. You haven't noticed the pain for ten minutes, an hour, an afternoon. You sleep better, wake more refreshed. Drugs are there to help but aren't always or the only answer.