This article is from page 13 of the 2012-09-11 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 13 JPG
AN Ennis woman is helping to raise awareness of the painful spinal condition scoliosis.
Eileen Farrell’s life turned upside down when she was diagnosed with the condition.
Eileen (48) first became aware of the condition after going to the swimming pool to partake in a session of water aerobics.
She says, “I was really shocked by what had happened at the pool. Normally I feel flexible and healthy after a session, but that day I was in agony before I even did anything”
Ignoring the discomfort, Eileen went to work the next day and, by the end of the day, Eileen had decided that she had to visit her GP.
When Eileen visited her GP a few days later, he diagnosed scoliosis and advised her of the different methods of treatment that were available to her.
Scoliosis affects more than four per cent of the population and, if left untreated, it can lead to fatal heart and lung problems.
The condition involves both adults and children but progresses more rapidly during the teenage years.
Spinal surgery is an extreme process that involves the insertion of two metal rods into the back, on either side of the spine, before the spine is fused back together.
Following the appointment with her GP, Eileen started to search the internet for an alternative method to treat her condition.
Eileen was eventually treated at the Scoliosis SOS Clinic in London.
She explains, “The initial consultation was very important to my overall treatment. I was educated by the consultant, who put my mind at rest. I was so relieved at the end of my consultation and I enrolled onto a course of treatment the very same day.”
Eileen began her course at the start of the following month.
By the end of the second week, her pain levels had reduced.
She added, “I was so happy when I was given my before-treatment and after-treatment scans. I looked like a different person. I was really pleased with myself for making it happen. My pain has gone and I look more upright; I have even grown a few centimetres as well.
“But most importantly I am back in the pool and hopefully not making too much of a splash.”