Lisa
Dear Fran, We are at the beginning of what you are going through. My daughter is 13 1/2 and just recently diagnoised with at 30 degree thoracic - lumbar curve. We have gotten much supposrt and help from the Scoliosis Society (1800-800-0669). We have been investigating a new brace technique called Spinecor that is dynamic rather than rigid and unlike the hard braces that arrest a curve, there is hope that a dynamic brae will correct the curve. The information that I have come accross states that if you wear the brace full compliance (which ist sounds like you have) there is an 80% chance that the curve with stop progressing. After that, the curve may worsen 1-3 degress per decade. Once the Riser is closed, your doctor should be able to give you a better idea. This has been so difficult for my teenage daughter - the psyco-social aspect is devistating to young girls. Did you find it difficult to find clothes to fit over the brace? At first my daughter raged a lot - took it out on me mostly - now she is more resigned, but it has changed her personality. She was always "touchy" and kinda "negitive" - a glass half empty type - this has just made it worse. I keep telling her that the brace is her best chance to avoid surgery, but knowing that doesn't help much. I wish you luck. My e mail is fitgirl@cre8v.com if you want to chat.