Weekly Link Roundup 09/22/2011

In light of my scoliosis revision surgery, this week’s roundup focuses on the spine. 

1. National Scoliosis Foundation — Est. 1976, NSF is a nonprofit organization lead by patients that strives to bring patients, loved ones, physicians, together for the cause. NSF provides educational materials for patients and their families (books, video, brochures, local NSF chapters), goes to great lengths to promote public awareness and encourage research. The organization can also provide you with information on surgeons or screening programs in your area. NSF was the first resource I found years ago when I received my diagnosis of Scoliosis, and I have visited their forum regularly. I also recommend subscribing to their newsletter, The Spinal Connection, which highlights the latest in research, treatments, and awareness adventures. Older newsletters are available for pdf download, completely free. While you’re add it, make a donation by ordering a scoli-band, their Scoliosis awareness bracelet. 
   
   
2. iScoliosis — The most patient friendly website I have found, with excellent resources for both families and patients, especially young adults. With printable lists of questions for both parents and patients to ask their surgeons, to advice on how to discuss the emotional aspect of the condition with loved ones, to a glossary of scoliosis-related terms to be familiar with, iScoliosis is incredibly thorough. Check out their great article list, FAQ page, and doctor finder, and keep iScoliosis tucked away for reference. Also a great resource for younger adolescents to connect with and learn about others their age going through bracing or surgical treatment.
   
   
3. Scoliosis Research Society — Interested int he latest clinical trials and research? Check out SRS, a highly acclaimed international society founded in 1966 that works with 1,000 leading spine surgeons and health care workers to encourage new research, treatment, and education of Scoliosis. Check out their dates for conferences and meetings near you, get involved or make a donation, read patient stories, or learn about the Global Outreach Program, which provides patients in third world countries with free scoliosis treatment!
   
   
4. Scoliosis Association (UK) Helpline — A UK-based organization that has created a helpline that is open five days a week, Monday to Friday, for families or patients to call and vent, ask questions, and find support anonymously. So valuable. Check out the rest of what Scoliosis Association is all about :) and for those of us in the states, here’s the link for Scoliosis Association (U.S— actually located in Boca Raton!).
    

A reminder: never trust a resource (especially a few on tumblr that I’ve seen by clearly confused pre-teens) that claims that natural cures will cure your scoliosis. Yoga is excellent for strengthening muscles and alleviating pain while maintaining flexibility, but it will not cure your scoliosis. Drinking excessive quantities of milk will not straighten your spine and the best medical opinion you can get will not come from an online resource, but your surgeon. Online resources should be used for general knowledge to form questions and ideas, and then take them to your doctor for clarification, or for a second opinion. Never forgo seeing a physician in place of the internet.


Another reminder: When reading support forums and other stories, keep in mind that everyone has a different physical make up, different genetics, external factors, and different surgeons/hardware. Never compare yourself too closely to another horror story and get yourself worked up. Remember that often times, those who post on forums unfortunately got the short end of the stick and are looking for help, not necessarily the average experience.