By Michael C. Shaffer, D.C., P.A.
Living with scoliosis is more than just dealing with a curved spine—it means living with pain that can interfere with even the simplest daily activities. For Tammy Wyatt, this pain had been a constant companion for most of her life. Sitting for long hours at work, relying on ice packs and over-the-counter pain medications, and pushing through discomfort became her normal. When she consulted with Dr. Michael Shaffer and began treatments with the M7 Therapy Laser, her life changed.
We sat down with Tammy to talk about her scoliosis, her pain, and how the M7 laser has given her relief she never thought possible.
Living with Chronic Pain
Q: Tammy, can you describe what life with scoliosis has been like for you?
Tammy: “Pain has been a big part of my life. With scoliosis, you can’t just ignore it—it’s there every day. Sitting at my desk for work is hard because I can only sit for about 30 minutes before I have to stand up, stretch, or move around. I always keep ice packs at work and take Advil to manage it. The pain was all-consuming most days. It made even simple things feel difficult.”
Searching for Solutions
Q: Had you tried chiropractic care before scheduling with Dr. Shaffer?
Tammy: “Yes but nothing eliminated the day to day pain. When I came to Dr. Shaffer, he suggested trying the M7 Therapy Laser instead of adjustments. That was something new for me, and it’s made a huge difference.”
Experiencing the M7 Laser
Q: How did you get started with laser therapy?
Tammy: “We started in April 2025 with 12 treatments—twice a week to begin. Now I come in every other week for maintenance. The treatments help reduce my pain, sometimes by as much as 70%. It doesn’t take the pain away forever, but it makes it manageable. My intense pain has been reduced to more moderate pain. That’s huge for me. I can get through my day, do my job, and even have good days where I feel more like myself.”
The Difference It Makes
Q: What improvements have you noticed since starting the M7 laser?
Tammy: “The laser has improved my ability to work and to function in my daily life. Before, the pain felt debilitating. Now, I wouldn’t describe it that way anymore. It’s not gone, but it’s better. I wear a hard back brace every day, I use my inversion table, and I exercise. But the M7 laser is the only treatment that really controls the pain. It’s given me back some quality of life.”
Commitment to Ongoing Care
Q: Do you plan to continue with the M7 laser treatments?
Tammy: “Yes, Scoliosis isn’t something you can cure. The laser works for me, so I’ll keep coming. My insurance doesn’t cover it, so I pay out-of-pocket, but it’s absolutely worth it.”
Gratitude for Care
Q: What has your experience been like with Dr. Shaffer and his team?
Tammy: “They are incredible. Dr. Shaffer and Kay really care. They’re professional, they’re thorough, and they’re kind. You can tell they want what is best for their patients. They recommended custom foot inserts for me, and that’s helped as well. I’m just so grateful for the way they treat me and the relief they’ve helped me find. I highly recommend them to anyone dealing with scoliosis or chronic pain.”
Care You Can Feel
Tammy emphasizes the clinic’s patient-centered approach: “Dr. Shaffer and Kay just care so much. They’re professional, helpful, and they take time to explain everything. I highly recommend Dr. Shaffer for scoliosis-related pain.”
How the M7 Therapy Laser Helps
(Quick Science)
• What it is: The M7 uses synchronized therapeutic light (often called MLS® laser therapy) designed to penetrate soft tissues.
• Targets: Inflamed muscles, ligaments, joint capsules, and irritated nerve tissues that commonly contribute to scoliosis pain.
• How it works: Light energy is absorbed by cells, supporting cellular metabolism and microcirculation. This can reduce inflammation and swelling, ease muscle spasm, and modulate pain signaling.
• Why it fits scoliosis: When traditional adjustments aren’t advised, laser therapy offers a non-invasive, drug-free option to calm painful soft tissues around a curved spine—helping many patients move with less pain.
• Course of care: Often delivered in a series (e.g., 2–3 sessions/week for several weeks) followed by maintenance based on individual response.
If you or a loved one are living with scoliosis or chronic pain and have struggled to find relief, Dr. Michael Shaffer offers advanced therapies like the M7 laser to help reduce pain and improve quality of life.
Michael C. Shaffer, D.C., P.A.
(239) 793-3200
www.drmichaelshaffer.com
671 Goodlette Rd., Unit 160
Naples, FL 34102