The main reason I did not speak out about my bullying sooner was my battle with the spinal condition Kyphosis, in 2001 I was diagnosed with Kyphosis (curvature of the spine), as I had severe Kyphosis unless I was treated now, later I could develop paralysis, I started to go and see my consultant in North Staffordshire to try and see what could be done to help me, In February 2002 I went an had an operation to have 2 titanium rods placed in my back to straighten my spine, they shaved the bottom part to try and angle the spine in the correct position and by doing this the titanium rods should hold it in place.

After 5 months in a plaster cast and then 3 months in a soft one I thought that everything was going to be OK, in 2003 I had the same operation again to have the rods remove as it became really uncomfortable, and I can’t even describe the pain but it was sharp and I can still remember it today, so it must have been awful,

Today I still have a 12 inch scar on my back, a timely reminder of what I went through. I do still get really bad back aches but even with out the rods, I feel much better and it’s all thanks to the amazing NHS staff who treated me well and really looked after me, I still see my consultant for regular check ups every year to monitor this.

A physical examination by your GP can confirm that there is an abnormal curve in your spine. They may ask you to bend over so they can measure the curve, and ask you to do movements or exercises.

They will also ask you to lie down so they can see if the curve is due to bad posture, or the structure of the spine. If the spine straightens when you lie down, the curve is caused by bad posture. If the curve is still there, it is structural kyphosis.
Your GP will also ask you about any changes in sensation or weaknesses below the level of the curve. They may take an X-ray to measure how much the spine is curved.
If your GP thinks that another condition may be causing kyphosis, then they test for other conditions, such as osteoporosis.

Treatment depends on the type of kyphosis, and whether the curve in the spine is causing pain or any other symptoms.
Surgery is not usually required, unless kyphosis is causing symptoms such as severe back pain, muscle spasms, or difficulty breathing.
Corrective surgery can be used for babies that are born with kyphosis. Surgery can also be used when kyphosis is caused by Scheuermann's disease, if the curve is large or painful, or if it is getting worse over time.
Surgery for kyphosis is called a spinal fusion and it is done while you are under general anaesthetic (put to sleep). An opening is made in your back, and the curve is corrected as much as possible with metal rods and hooks on the spine. It involves around two weeks in hospital and you will normally have to wear a cast or back brace (a piece of equipment that supports your back) for up to nine months after the operation. This is to support your spine while it heals.

Having good posture when you stand up as well as when you are sitting down can prevent postural kyphosis. Keep you back and neck straight and don't slouch.
Osteoporosis is a major cause of kyphosis. You can cut your chances of getting osteoporosis by getting regular exercise to strengthen your bones and muscles, and by eating a diet rich in calcium