Spinal Fusion and Mammograms!

In my corrections during my last mammogram

Life with a spinal fusion can be tricky sometimes (hello, small cars, bathtubs...), but the one that is not often talked about is mammograms. While mammograms are a vital tool for breast cancer screening, for those of us with spinal fusion, mammograms are like auditioning for Cirque du Soleil with a spine that says, “Nah, I’m not bending today.” and here is why:

1. Limited Mobility: They want you to “lean just a bit,”—but you’re fused and end up looking like a robot trying to do yoga.
2. Pain & Discomfort: Compression and positioning can strain sensitive areas, leading to discomfort or even pain during the screening.
3. Muscle Tension & Spasms: Fusion can lead to compensatory muscle strain in the neck, shoulders, and back, which might trigger spasms or soreness.

Tips for a More Comfortable Mammogram with Spinal Fusion:

1️⃣ Communicate with your technician: Let them know you have spinal fusion and explain you’re not just inflexible; you’re literally held together by hardware.
2️⃣ Position your body your way: think about your rotations and your scoliosis-specific corrections so you can think about how you need to place your body to have better access to your breasts.
3️⃣ Take breaks if needed: Don’t hesitate to pause and adjust as needed. Your comfort is essential.

While mammograms with spinal fusion can be tricky, proactive communication and small adjustments can help make the process a bit smoother. Taking the time to explain your needs may lead to better care and a more comfortable experience overall.