Steroid shots

[Guest guest]

Hello to all!

I have just recently been told that my MRI results revealed a ruptured disc

c5-c6, and 2 bulging discs c4-c5, c6-c7. I also have osteophyte activity between

the discs and the spinal cord.

I have osteoarthritis throughout the vertebral canals where the nerves to both

arms at disc c5-c6 leave the spinal cord, and these nerves are being pinched by

the arthritis and inflammation in that area.

My pain specialist, who ordered the MRI, read the report to me, and he is a

little alarmed. He has decided to send me to a neurologist, because I have also

asked if this condition, combined with neuropathy, would help in my case to

apply for Social Security Disability Income.

I am wondering what kind of treatments are available to me at this point,

because it is obvious that it is not going to get better on its own, and the

pain is never going to go away, and the medications I am being prescribed would

discourage anybody from hiring me.

I have 3 questions to ask the group, and Bennie , if you are out there,

please give me your input, too.

What are the best ways to deal with a ruptured disc in the neck?

What do I need to know if the doctor suggests trying steroid shots and or

trigger point injections?

Also, what do I need to know if they suggest surgery to remove the accumulated

arthritis?

My doctor has increased my gabapentin and cyclobenzaprine, to cut back on my

pain flares and increase my sleep time at night. This has increased my quality

of life, but I am finding it hard to sift through all the information on the

medical web sites. My concentration is not what it used to be when I was alert

and uptight.

Your Friend, Bonnadel