Scoliosis Does Not Stop James Blake

Bravo! James Blake beat Federer to continue his quest for Olympic gold in tennis. Even more important is Mr. Blake’s inspiring story for people with scoliosis (an abnormal curvature of the spine). As with most people diagnosed with scoliosis, James Blake learned that he had severe scoliosis during his adolescence years, specifically for him, age 13 years old. What a hard blow at such a young age? Imagine being told that you have a severe curvature of your spine that will require treatment with a full body brace worn 18 hours per day. Well, James Blake took charge of his health at a young age and wore his brace faithfully throughout high school. Because of his diligence, James Blake was able to avoid major spine surgery that could have ended his bright tennis future. His story is an inspirational lesson for all young people with scoliosis about the importance of brace compliance, frequent check-ups, and exercises.

Brace Compliance

Scoliosis can progress rapidly during adolescence because the spine is still growing. As the spine grows, it can also twist and bend into grotesque serpentine shapes. This progressive nature is why the full-body brace needs to be worn 18 hours per day, day in and day out. Unless a teenager is compliant with this regimen, this young person could be facing some serious consequences like: surgery, pain or difficulty breathing. Parenting and monitoring systems are usually very valuable tools to insure that the brace is actually being worn. Anyone with a teenager will appreciate the effort that young James Blake endured during those tough high school years.

Frequent Check-ups

Even with excellent bracing compliance, a spinal curve can still progress which is why it is so important to have frequent (sometimes monthly) check-ups. A doctor’s evaluation with X-ray’s is the only way to accurately tell if the curve has progressed. Each curve is measured in terms of degrees. Any changes in the degree of curvature can lead to adjustments in the brace or change in treatment plan.  Additionally, most scoliosis clinics offer peer support and counseling which has proven effective in maintaining good compliance and good attitudes. It is a sad day when a child walks into a clinic after not being seen for a couple of years. Just a couple of years without a check-up can mean the difference between a success story like James Blake or a tremendous surgery that did not need to happen.

Exercises

James Blake also credits his successful treatment of the scoliosis to a training program that he has followed throughout his life. He recalls being told that keeping his stomach and his back strong would prevent his curve from progressing. The strong stabilizing muscles of the back and stomach can work just like a back brace. With powerful forces, muscles can prevent spinal challenges and protect the spine from injury. By maintaining his strength, James Blake hopes to prevent pain from forcing him to quit tennis. He knows that his condition can worsen and surgery could be in his future. But he says, “I just try to keep a positive attitude and keep up with my exercises”.

Bravo!

What an inspiring story about a young boy with scoliosis who became the world’s best tennis player! James Blake shows us the perfect combination for successful treatment of scoliosis: bracing compliance, frequent check-ups, and exercises. Sure, he also had a little luck because sometimes spinal curves are devilishly relentless. But, he deserves a lot of credit for persevering with a spinal challenge. These Olympic Games are full of inspiring stories that offer hope to people of all ages and abilities.

James Blake Olympic Tennis Player

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Back and Neck by drlasich