Hi Anna, it seems like you have found a good balance between pain and your activities. If pain meds every few weeks is your 'new normal', you should stick with that. Sounds like a good life to me!

True, you could be building scar tissue right now. I believe your body will tell you when it's time to consider the rib resection surgeries. When every day is miserable and you feel as though you just can't function without help, it may be time to find that top notch surgeon and let them make the recommendation.

I had the resection surgeries 9 years ago and am just now getting the scar tissue and adhesions, but this could be aggravated by the 2 serious car wrecks I have been in since then. (yes, I did lots of PT to stretch and break up scar tissue post-surgery for about 7 years) Remember, every body is different and you may or may not have scar tissue problems.

I think the big question you should ask yourself is, "what will I no longer be able to do without the cervie+1st ribs?". For me, it's lifting things, using my arms away from my body, any percussive movements (dancing, etc.).

Good luck as you weigh the options before you.

Anne