New member

[Guest guest]

Dianne,

Can you get a second opinion from another neurosurgeon before surgery,

so that you don't blame yourself after the surgery in case it doesn't

go as well as you might like?

On Apr 1, 2009, at 5:43 PM, Dianne wrote:

Hi Everyone,

I'm new to the group but not to neck or back pain. I've had ongoing neck

problems for the past 20+ years.

In the beginning of Feb 2009 I was sitting here playing Solitaire on my

computer when I felt this intense pain between my shoulder blades. I

didn't think too much of it and figured it would feel better by the next

day. Unfortunately it didn't and got so bad I finally resorted to

goingto my doctor. He gave me 4 shots of cortisone in my neck/shoulder

blade (right side) but it didn't help. A few days later I went back

because of the intense pain and he sent me for an MRI. The MRI showed I

have a " moderate herniation at C6-7 level. " By now the pain is going

down my arm and my thumb, index and middle fingers are tingling at

times. My regular MD didn't feel it was necessary to send me to an

orthopedic so he ordered Lortabs 10mg which did next to nothing for me.

I started seeing a Chiropractor who started using the Tens Unit(?) and

heat. This kind of felt good but as soon as I was back in my car the

pain returned. I called him the next day and then Spinal Decompression

was started. I found this to be very painful but he was persistent and

said it would help as long as I stuck with it.

After 5 visits I called my orthopedic md and he told me that nothing was

going to work and he was more than 99% sure I was going to need surgery.

Not what I wanted to hear. He did start me on the Medrol Pack and I got

some relief from the sterioids. Once they finished I called the

Neurosurgeon and got an appointment right away. As soon as he examined

me he said I needed surgery because my triceps muscle was not as it

should be and he was even more convinced once he looked at my MRI. He

showed me the herniation and showed where it was pressing on my spinal

cord and nerves. The pain I have been in for the past 6 - 8 weeks is

like nothing else I've ever felt. Having my gall bladder out was a

picnic compared to this.

I'm having surgery on April 7 and from what he told me I will also have

screws in my neck when he is done. I know the name of the procedure he

is doing but right now it has slipped my mind. He also says I will be

back to work (lifting, pulling etc) in a week.

I am wondering if anyone here has an encouraging words for me since all

my friends are telling me to think twice. I'm not so sure I can forego

this surgery. The pain is to the point where I want it gone.

Thank you in advance.

Dianne

------------------------------------

[Guest guest]

Dianne,

 

  I sympathize with your pain, but I do want to warn you to take a little more

time in your decision. Spinal fusion is not something you rush. In most cases,

fusion should only be considered after you have tried everything and still have

pain, but even then i would not consider it unless my pain was so debilitating

that I couldn't function anymore. I have had two fusions myself, and lumbar

fusions are more successful at long term reliedf than cervical. Most people who

have a cervical fusion have a lot of problems due to the surgery, nerve pain and

muscle spasms and the scar tissue that forms can press on the nerves causing a

recurrance of the nerve symptoms.

 

You need to go to a pain specialist and it would be very helpful for you to find

a Physical Therapist who is also a Massage Therapist. They can bill the

insurance for massage with PT. You can get incredible results from regular

massage, but most of us just can't afford a $60 massage a week. You can not only

learn to lessen the sensation of pain in your mind as well as cranioscaral

techniques along with myofascial release can relieve some of the nerve

compression you are experiencing. Once you have had the fusion, you can never go

back, so make sure that you can go into fusion knowing you have done absolutely

everything to avoid surgery.

 

Best Wishes!

--- in RI

From: Dianne <dianne12315@...>

Subject: New Member

spinal problems

Date: Wednesday, April 1, 2009, 5:43 PM

Hi Everyone,

I'm new to the group but not to neck or back pain. I've had ongoing neck

problems for the past 20+ years.

In the beginning of Feb 2009 I was sitting here playing Solitaire on my

computer when I felt this intense pain between my shoulder blades. I

didn't think too much of it and figured it would feel better by the next

day. Unfortunately it didn't and got so bad I finally resorted to

goingto my doctor. He gave me 4 shots of cortisone in my neck/shoulder

blade (right side) but it didn't help. A few days later I went back

because of the intense pain and he sent me for an MRI. The MRI showed I

have a " moderate herniation at C6-7 level. " By now the pain is going

down my arm and my thumb, index and middle fingers are tingling at

times. My regular MD didn't feel it was necessary to send me to an

orthopedic so he ordered Lortabs 10mg which did next to nothing for me.

I started seeing a Chiropractor who started using the Tens Unit(?) and

heat. This kind of felt good but as soon as I was back in my car the

pain returned. I called him the next day and then Spinal Decompression

was started. I found this to be very painful but he was persistent and

said it would help as long as I stuck with it.

After 5 visits I called my orthopedic md and he told me that nothing was

going to work and he was more than 99% sure I was going to need surgery.

Not what I wanted to hear. He did start me on the Medrol Pack and I got

some relief from the sterioids. Once they finished I called the

Neurosurgeon and got an appointment right away. As soon as he examined

me he said I needed surgery because my triceps muscle was not as it

should be and he was even more convinced once he looked at my MRI. He

showed me the herniation and showed where it was pressing on my spinal

cord and nerves. The pain I have been in for the past 6 - 8 weeks is

like nothing else I've ever felt. Having my gall bladder out was a

picnic compared to this.

I'm having surgery on April 7 and from what he told me I will also have

screws in my neck when he is done. I know the name of the procedure he

is doing but right now it has slipped my mind. He also says I will be

back to work (lifting, pulling etc) in a week.

I am wondering if anyone here has an encouraging words for me since all

my friends are telling me to think twice. I'm not so sure I can forego

this surgery. The pain is to the point where I want it gone.

Thank you in advance.

Dianne

[Guest guest]

Dianne,

 

  I sympathize with your pain, but I do want to warn you to take a little more

time in your decision. Spinal fusion is not something you rush. In most cases,

fusion should only be considered after you have tried everything and still have

pain, but even then i would not consider it unless my pain was so debilitating

that I couldn't function anymore. I have had two fusions myself, and lumbar

fusions are more successful at long term reliedf than cervical. Most people who

have a cervical fusion have a lot of problems due to the surgery, nerve pain and

muscle spasms and the scar tissue that forms can press on the nerves causing a

recurrance of the nerve symptoms.

 

You need to go to a pain specialist and it would be very helpful for you to find

a Physical Therapist who is also a Massage Therapist. They can bill the

insurance for massage with PT. You can get incredible results from regular

massage, but most of us just can't afford a $60 massage a week. You can not only

learn to lessen the sensation of pain in your mind as well as cranioscaral

techniques along with myofascial release can relieve some of the nerve

compression you are experiencing. Once you have had the fusion, you can never go

back, so make sure that you can go into fusion knowing you have done absolutely

everything to avoid surgery.

 

Best Wishes!

--- in RI

From: Dianne <dianne12315@...>

Subject: New Member

spinal problems

Date: Wednesday, April 1, 2009, 5:43 PM

Hi Everyone,

I'm new to the group but not to neck or back pain. I've had ongoing neck

problems for the past 20+ years.

In the beginning of Feb 2009 I was sitting here playing Solitaire on my

computer when I felt this intense pain between my shoulder blades. I

didn't think too much of it and figured it would feel better by the next

day. Unfortunately it didn't and got so bad I finally resorted to

goingto my doctor. He gave me 4 shots of cortisone in my neck/shoulder

blade (right side) but it didn't help. A few days later I went back

because of the intense pain and he sent me for an MRI. The MRI showed I

have a " moderate herniation at C6-7 level. " By now the pain is going

down my arm and my thumb, index and middle fingers are tingling at

times. My regular MD didn't feel it was necessary to send me to an

orthopedic so he ordered Lortabs 10mg which did next to nothing for me.

I started seeing a Chiropractor who started using the Tens Unit(?) and

heat. This kind of felt good but as soon as I was back in my car the

pain returned. I called him the next day and then Spinal Decompression

was started. I found this to be very painful but he was persistent and

said it would help as long as I stuck with it.

After 5 visits I called my orthopedic md and he told me that nothing was

going to work and he was more than 99% sure I was going to need surgery.

Not what I wanted to hear. He did start me on the Medrol Pack and I got

some relief from the sterioids. Once they finished I called the

Neurosurgeon and got an appointment right away. As soon as he examined

me he said I needed surgery because my triceps muscle was not as it

should be and he was even more convinced once he looked at my MRI. He

showed me the herniation and showed where it was pressing on my spinal

cord and nerves. The pain I have been in for the past 6 - 8 weeks is

like nothing else I've ever felt. Having my gall bladder out was a

picnic compared to this.

I'm having surgery on April 7 and from what he told me I will also have

screws in my neck when he is done. I know the name of the procedure he

is doing but right now it has slipped my mind. He also says I will be

back to work (lifting, pulling etc) in a week.

I am wondering if anyone here has an encouraging words for me since all

my friends are telling me to think twice. I'm not so sure I can forego

this surgery. The pain is to the point where I want it gone.

Thank you in advance.

Dianne

[Guest guest]

Dianne,

It would be wise to listen to on this matter. I had the fusion done in

2001, it did give me some relief for a while, but not long I was back getting

epidurals, because the pain was getting so intense. It's not all the fusion

itself, but the cutting of muscles and manipulation during surgery that causes

so many other problems. I wished I had done all else before I did this, I feel I

could have postponed the inevitable. Granted if there is no other solution, like

me you will have no choice, but like  is trying to say, don't expect any

miracles. The possibility for a 100% recovery is very low. I know you wanted to

hear some words of encouragement, but after-wards the reality will set in,

sooner or later. I still have trouble even 8 years later, and now I have spurs,

and the disks above and below are showing signs of degeneration. It's like if

you compare it to the domino effect.

I sure hope for the best, I know it can be a horrible experience. You will find

 folks here that did in fact have a full recovery, and wouldn't take anything

for their hardware, and maybe this will be your experience. In any case we will

be here for you, hoping everything will work out for the best.

Good luck and God speed.

 

Bama,

 

The dog has seldom been successful in pulling man up to its level of sagacity,

but man has frequently dragged the dog down to his. Thurber

                                                                            

________________________________

From: Babbitt <tpowell1977@...>

spinal problems

Sent: Wednesday, April 1, 2009 5:49:41 PM

Subject: Re: New Member

Dianne,

 

  I sympathize with your pain, but I do want to warn you to take a little more

time in your decision. Spinal fusion is not something you rush. In most cases,

fusion should only be considered after you have tried everything and still have

pain, but even then i would not consider it unless my pain was so debilitating

that I couldn't function anymore. I have had two fusions myself, and lumbar

fusions are more successful at long term reliedf than cervical. Most people who

have a cervical fusion have a lot of problems due to the surgery, nerve pain and

muscle spasms and the scar tissue that forms can press on the nerves causing a

recurrance of the nerve symptoms.

 

You need to go to a pain specialist and it would be very helpful for you to find

a Physical Therapist who is also a Massage Therapist. They can bill the

insurance for massage with PT. You can get incredible results from regular

massage, but most of us just can't afford a $60 massage a week. You can not only

learn to lessen the sensation of pain in your mind as well as cranioscaral

techniques along with myofascial release can relieve some of the nerve

compression you are experiencing. Once you have had the fusion, you can never go

back, so make sure that you can go into fusion knowing you have done absolutely

everything to avoid surgery.

 

Best Wishes!

--- in RI

From: Dianne <dianne12315>

Subject: New Member

spinedisorderssuppo rtgroup@gro ups.com

Date: Wednesday, April 1, 2009, 5:43 PM

Hi Everyone,

I'm new to the group but not to neck or back pain. I've had ongoing neck

problems for the past 20+ years.

In the beginning of Feb 2009 I was sitting here playing Solitaire on my

computer when I felt this intense pain between my shoulder blades. I

didn't think too much of it and figured it would feel better by the next

day. Unfortunately it didn't and got so bad I finally resorted to

goingto my doctor. He gave me 4 shots of cortisone in my neck/shoulder

blade (right side) but it didn't help. A few days later I went back

because of the intense pain and he sent me for an MRI. The MRI showed I

have a " moderate herniation at C6-7 level. " By now the pain is going

down my arm and my thumb, index and middle fingers are tingling at

times. My regular MD didn't feel it was necessary to send me to an

orthopedic so he ordered Lortabs 10mg which did next to nothing for me.

I started seeing a Chiropractor who started using the Tens Unit(?) and

heat. This kind of felt good but as soon as I was back in my car the

pain returned. I called him the next day and then Spinal Decompression

was started. I found this to be very painful but he was persistent and

said it would help as long as I stuck with it.

After 5 visits I called my orthopedic md and he told me that nothing was

going to work and he was more than 99% sure I was going to need surgery.

Not what I wanted to hear. He did start me on the Medrol Pack and I got

some relief from the sterioids. Once they finished I called the

Neurosurgeon and got an appointment right away. As soon as he examined

me he said I needed surgery because my triceps muscle was not as it

should be and he was even more convinced once he looked at my MRI. He

showed me the herniation and showed where it was pressing on my spinal

cord and nerves. The pain I have been in for the past 6 - 8 weeks is

like nothing else I've ever felt. Having my gall bladder out was a

picnic compared to this.

I'm having surgery on April 7 and from what he told me I will also have

screws in my neck when he is done. I know the name of the procedure he

is doing but right now it has slipped my mind. He also says I will be

back to work (lifting, pulling etc) in a week.

I am wondering if anyone here has an encouraging words for me since all

my friends are telling me to think twice. I'm not so sure I can forego

this surgery. The pain is to the point where I want it gone.

Thank you in advance.

Dianne

[Guest guest]

Break a leg, Dianne. The very best of luck. I hope the surgery works.

I think it will, and positive thoughts help a lot.

On Apr 1, 2009, at 7:31 PM, Dianne wrote:

Hi ,

Unfortunately I can't get second opinion from another neurosurgeon. This

is a small community and the one I'm going to is the only one in this

county. I did go to an orthopedic first and he was the first one to

mention surgery. I was shocked because I didn't think the herniation was

that bad. He showed me my MRI and you can see where the herniation was

interfering with my spinal column. He described it like a crimp in a

straw.

I just hope surgery is the right choice and this is something I wish I

hadn't done. I will consider it a success if the pain goes away and the

strength is restored in my arm.

Looks like I have a lot to think about.

Thank you.

Dianne

>

>

> Hi Everyone,

>

> I'm new to the group but not to neck or back pain. I've had ongoing

neck

> problems for the past 20+ years.

>

> In the beginning of Feb 2009 I was sitting here playing Solitaire on

my

> computer when I felt this intense pain between my shoulder blades. I

> didn't think too much of it and figured it would feel better by the

next

> day. Unfortunately it didn't and got so bad I finally resorted to

> goingto my doctor. He gave me 4 shots of cortisone in my neck/shoulder

> blade (right side) but it didn't help. A few days later I went back

> because of the intense pain and he sent me for an MRI. The MRI showed

I

> have a " moderate herniation at C6-7 level. " By now the pain is going

> down my arm and my thumb, index and middle fingers are tingling at

> times. My regular MD didn't feel it was necessary to send me to an

> orthopedic so he ordered Lortabs 10mg which did next to nothing for

me.

>

> I started seeing a Chiropractor who started using the Tens Unit(?) and

> heat. This kind of felt good but as soon as I was back in my car the

> pain returned. I called him the next day and then Spinal Decompression

> was started. I found this to be very painful but he was persistent and

> said it would help as long as I stuck with it.

>

> After 5 visits I called my orthopedic md and he told me that nothing

was

> going to work and he was more than 99% sure I was going to need

surgery.

> Not what I wanted to hear. He did start me on the Medrol Pack and I

got

> some relief from the sterioids. Once they finished I called the

> Neurosurgeon and got an appointment right away. As soon as he examined

> me he said I needed surgery because my triceps muscle was not as it

> should be and he was even more convinced once he looked at my MRI. He

> showed me the herniation and showed where it was pressing on my spinal

> cord and nerves. The pain I have been in for the past 6 - 8 weeks is

> like nothing else I've ever felt. Having my gall bladder out was a

> picnic compared to this.

>

> I'm having surgery on April 7 and from what he told me I will also

have

> screws in my neck when he is done. I know the name of the procedure he

> is doing but right now it has slipped my mind. He also says I will be

> back to work (lifting, pulling etc) in a week.

>

> I am wondering if anyone here has an encouraging words for me since

all

> my friends are telling me to think twice. I'm not so sure I can forego

> this surgery. The pain is to the point where I want it gone.

>

> Thank you in advance.

>

> Dianne

>

>

>

>

>

> ------------------------------------

>

>

[Guest guest]

Dianne,

You said you only started with the cervical problem in February???? How have you

tried all of those things since then? Also, there are other procedures in

development now that are soon going to be available and some may be already. One

such procedure is the ablation of any protruding disk, a procedure that isnot

open surgery and does not change your anatomy.

 

I am a spine surgical nurse, I have seen many cervical fusion patients come and

go, trust me, it's not that great. And coming from an insider's perspective,

word of mouth is not always the best way to find a surgeon that's " tops " . No one

but the people who work intimately with the surgeons and their patients know

what kind of a surgeon they are. Physical therapists that often see the patients

of a specific doc can gat a decent feel fo rthe quality of the work, but the OR

nurses and surgical scrub nurses are the ones who watch every move and every

decision they make. I would call up the OR at the hospital you are looking to go

to and ask to speak with an experienced spine nurse or surgical tech. Ask them

who they would recommend. Most docs refer to whomever is local and know nothing

about the actual quality of the work.

 

Believe me, I had my first fusion at age 21 and I went to a hospital in Boston

and saw a " brilliant young surgeon " who was supposed to be " tops " in the world.

there were people in his waiting room from foreign countries that came to see

him. it took months to get in to see him. I thought this was going to be it.

He's going to patch me up and I'll be great. Well, I was for three years. I

forgot all my problems with my back...until the day my screws broke because my

fusion never took. The thin screws he put into my facet joints (a new approach

that is not done now) were all that was holding it together. I now have terrible

pain in my facets due to this and though I've had a re-do of my fusion and am

much better...I will always suffer. I have learned a lot from the six surgeries

I've has, the research and countless procedures I've endured. I learned a lot

from the amazing and not so amazing spine surgeons I've worked alongside...they

were teachers most of

them. In Boston, those docs teach anyone what they want to learn...so i became

the student and learned from the best.

 

I know the arm weakness is hard to deal with and I know how chronic pain can

wear on you, it's been 16 years for me and I'm only 31. Pain is all I've known.

But if I could go back...I would have done things differently. Fusion is

irreversible and sometimes necessary, I'm the first one on here to advocate for

it if it's truly necessary. I'm not saying your is, but if you've only had this

problem since February...I would do more research. Most times now, docs don't

look at a disk bulge as enough of a candidate for surgery. Yes, your arm

weakness is a problem, but the doctor cannot guarantee you that will go away

after surgery. And for certain...you WILL develop new problems due to the

fusion. It's a natural consequence of the surgery.

 

The best thing to do is research, ask questions, try EVERYTHING, be informed and

make the decision that is best for you. Surgery may be the right thing for

you...but you don't want to look back and wonder if you could have done anything

different.

 

Good Luck!

 

--- in RI

From: Dianne <dianne12315@...>

Subject: Re: New Member

spinal problems

Date: Wednesday, April 1, 2009, 7:25 PM

Hi ,

I have tried PT, massage, accupuncture, Chiropractic, and spinal

decompression with no relief. I'm now experiencing muscle weakness in my

right arm and hand. Also I have no reflexes in my right arm. I wouldn't

consider my pain debilitating but will say it's the worst pain I've ever

felt and it's interfering with my ability to do my job. I can't afford

to go on disability and not so sure I'd qualify for it. Thankfully I

have good co-workers. They have been covering for me and the only thing

I've been doing is some laundry and cooking. Even that is proving to be

painful.

So far I've heard a lot of positive things about the cervical spine

fusion. I avoided surgery years ago because there was no muscle

weakness. The neurosurgeon is supposed to be tops in this county and I

have never heard (or read anything negative) about him.

Spinal fusion is not something I want but not so sure I can live too

much longer in constant pain. It's interfering with my activities of

daily living not to mention my sleep. Being sleep deprived is no fun

either.

I will give this a lot of thought the next few days. You have given me

some things to think about and I appreciate that.

Thank you.

Dianne

>

> From: Dianne dianne12315@ ...

> Subject: New Member

> spinedisorderssuppo rtgroup@gro ups.com

> Date: Wednesday, April 1, 2009, 5:43 PM

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

> Hi Everyone,

>

> I'm new to the group but not to neck or back pain. I've had ongoing

neck

> problems for the past 20+ years.

>

> In the beginning of Feb 2009 I was sitting here playing Solitaire on

my

> computer when I felt this intense pain between my shoulder blades. I

> didn't think too much of it and figured it would feel better by the

next

> day. Unfortunately it didn't and got so bad I finally resorted to

> goingto my doctor. He gave me 4 shots of cortisone in my neck/shoulder

> blade (right side) but it didn't help. A few days later I went back

> because of the intense pain and he sent me for an MRI. The MRI showed

I

> have a " moderate herniation at C6-7 level. " By now the pain is going

> down my arm and my thumb, index and middle fingers are tingling at

> times. My regular MD didn't feel it was necessary to send me to an

> orthopedic so he ordered Lortabs 10mg which did next to nothing for

me.

>

> I started seeing a Chiropractor who started using the Tens Unit(?) and

> heat. This kind of felt good but as soon as I was back in my car the

> pain returned. I called him the next day and then Spinal Decompression

> was started. I found this to be very painful but he was persistent and

> said it would help as long as I stuck with it.

>

> After 5 visits I called my orthopedic md and he told me that nothing

was

> going to work and he was more than 99% sure I was going to need

surgery.

> Not what I wanted to hear. He did start me on the Medrol Pack and I

got

> some relief from the sterioids. Once they finished I called the

> Neurosurgeon and got an appointment right away. As soon as he examined

> me he said I needed surgery because my triceps muscle was not as it

> should be and he was even more convinced once he looked at my MRI. He

> showed me the herniation and showed where it was pressing on my spinal

> cord and nerves. The pain I have been in for the past 6 - 8 weeks is

> like nothing else I've ever felt. Having my gall bladder out was a

> picnic compared to this.

>

> I'm having surgery on April 7 and from what he told me I will also

have

> screws in my neck when he is done. I know the name of the procedure he

> is doing but right now it has slipped my mind. He also says I will be

> back to work (lifting, pulling etc) in a week.

>

> I am wondering if anyone here has an encouraging words for me since

all

> my friends are telling me to think twice. I'm not so sure I can forego

> this surgery. The pain is to the point where I want it gone.

>

> Thank you in advance.

>

> Dianne

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Dianne,

 

Your statement below makes me shiver. The difference between the skill of

surgeons in a small community hospital and those of surgeons in a big city

hospital...are vast. I've worked in both and let me tell you, you don't want to

have this life changing surgery in a small community hospital.

 

You said in a prior email that this doc was the best in the county...now you say

he's the only one. Dianne...this is your body and your future. It is worth it to

travel to a LARGE city or another state if necessary to get the best skill for

the best outcome you can possibly get. TRUST me on this one.  Doesn't mean it

will be convenient, but it's your SPINE!!!

 

---

 

From: Dianne <dianne12315@...>

Subject: Re: New Member

spinal problems

Date: Wednesday, April 1, 2009, 7:31 PM

Hi ,

Unfortunately I can't get second opinion from another neurosurgeon. This

is a small community and the one I'm going to is the only one in this

county. I did go to an orthopedic first and he was the first one to

mention surgery. I was shocked because I didn't think the herniation was

that bad. He showed me my MRI and you can see where the herniation was

interfering with my spinal column. He described it like a crimp in a

straw.

I just hope surgery is the right choice and this is something I wish I

hadn't done. I will consider it a success if the pain goes away and the

strength is restored in my arm.

Looks like I have a lot to think about.

Thank you.

Dianne

>

>

> Hi Everyone,

>

> I'm new to the group but not to neck or back pain. I've had ongoing

neck

> problems for the past 20+ years.

>

> In the beginning of Feb 2009 I was sitting here playing Solitaire on

my

> computer when I felt this intense pain between my shoulder blades. I

> didn't think too much of it and figured it would feel better by the

next

> day. Unfortunately it didn't and got so bad I finally resorted to

> goingto my doctor. He gave me 4 shots of cortisone in my neck/shoulder

> blade (right side) but it didn't help. A few days later I went back

> because of the intense pain and he sent me for an MRI. The MRI showed

I

> have a " moderate herniation at C6-7 level. " By now the pain is going

> down my arm and my thumb, index and middle fingers are tingling at

> times. My regular MD didn't feel it was necessary to send me to an

> orthopedic so he ordered Lortabs 10mg which did next to nothing for

me.

>

> I started seeing a Chiropractor who started using the Tens Unit(?) and

> heat. This kind of felt good but as soon as I was back in my car the

> pain returned. I called him the next day and then Spinal Decompression

> was started. I found this to be very painful but he was persistent and

> said it would help as long as I stuck with it.

>

> After 5 visits I called my orthopedic md and he told me that nothing

was

> going to work and he was more than 99% sure I was going to need

surgery.

> Not what I wanted to hear. He did start me on the Medrol Pack and I

got

> some relief from the sterioids. Once they finished I called the

> Neurosurgeon and got an appointment right away. As soon as he examined

> me he said I needed surgery because my triceps muscle was not as it

> should be and he was even more convinced once he looked at my MRI. He

> showed me the herniation and showed where it was pressing on my spinal

> cord and nerves. The pain I have been in for the past 6 - 8 weeks is

> like nothing else I've ever felt. Having my gall bladder out was a

> picnic compared to this.

>

> I'm having surgery on April 7 and from what he told me I will also

have

> screws in my neck when he is done. I know the name of the procedure he

> is doing but right now it has slipped my mind. He also says I will be

> back to work (lifting, pulling etc) in a week.

>

> I am wondering if anyone here has an encouraging words for me since

all

> my friends are telling me to think twice. I'm not so sure I can forego

> this surgery. The pain is to the point where I want it gone.

>

> Thank you in advance.

>

> Dianne

>

>

>

>

>

> ------------ --------- --------- ------

>

>

[Guest guest]

Dianne,

Please do let us know how you make out. We all wish the very best for you! I

just want you to know that if it's a primary care physician you are referring

to, he won't know anything about the surgery or much about what to expect after

or what the risks are. Spine surgery is very complex, much more so than most

other surgeries performed (and I know as I've scrubbed every kind of case there

is for the most part). PCP's cannot possibly understand the complexities of a

rapidly changing surgical specialty. I'm sure he'll try to come up with some

answers for you, but it would be like going to a mechanic and asking him to help

you pick out drapes. You need to see another surgeon.

 

---

From: Dianne <dianne12315@...>

Subject: Re: New Member

spinal problems

Date: Wednesday, April 1, 2009, 8:18 PM

Hi ,

Thanks to you and everyone else here I've decided I'm going to make an

appointment with my regular md who knows me quite well. He will be

honest and upfront with me about what I can expect and he will also tell

me if surgery is a good option for me. Once I leave his office I'm going

to call the neurosurgeon and tell him I have some questions I want and

need answered. Surgery is not something I want and if I can avoid it I

will. Nothing scares me more than surgery and especially surgery

involving my neck. I have horrors thinking I will end up in a neck brace

for the rest of my life or worse in pain.

I will definitely let everyone here know how I made out.

Dianne

>

> From: Dianne <dianne12315>

> Subject: New Member

> spinedisorderssuppo rtgroup@gro ups.com

> Date: Wednesday, April 1, 2009, 5:43 PM

>

> Hi Everyone,

>

> I'm new to the group but not to neck or back pain. I've had ongoing

neck

> problems for the past 20+ years.

>

> In the beginning of Feb 2009 I was sitting here playing Solitaire on

my

> computer when I felt this intense pain between my shoulder blades. I

> didn't think too much of it and figured it would feel better by the

next

> day. Unfortunately it didn't and got so bad I finally resorted to

> goingto my doctor. He gave me 4 shots of cortisone in my neck/shoulder

> blade (right side) but it didn't help. A few days later I went back

> because of the intense pain and he sent me for an MRI. The MRI showed

I

> have a " moderate herniation at C6-7 level. " By now the pain is going

> down my arm and my thumb, index and middle fingers are tingling at

> times. My regular MD didn't feel it was necessary to send me to an

> orthopedic so he ordered Lortabs 10mg which did next to nothing for

me.

>

> I started seeing a Chiropractor who started using the Tens Unit(?) and

> heat. This kind of felt good but as soon as I was back in my car the

> pain returned. I called him the next day and then Spinal Decompression

> was started. I found this to be very painful but he was persistent and

> said it would help as long as I stuck with it.

>

> After 5 visits I called my orthopedic md and he told me that nothing

was

> going to work and he was more than 99% sure I was going to need

surgery.

> Not what I wanted to hear. He did start me on the Medrol Pack and I

got

> some relief from the sterioids. Once they finished I called the

> Neurosurgeon and got an appointment right away. As soon as he examined

> me he said I needed surgery because my triceps muscle was not as it

> should be and he was even more convinced once he looked at my MRI. He

> showed me the herniation and showed where it was pressing on my spinal

> cord and nerves. The pain I have been in for the past 6 - 8 weeks is

> like nothing else I've ever felt. Having my gall bladder out was a

> picnic compared to this.

>

> I'm having surgery on April 7 and from what he told me I will also

have

> screws in my neck when he is done. I know the name of the procedure he

> is doing but right now it has slipped my mind. He also says I will be

> back to work (lifting, pulling etc) in a week.

>

> I am wondering if anyone here has an encouraging words for me since

all

> my friends are telling me to think twice. I'm not so sure I can forego

> this surgery. The pain is to the point where I want it gone.

>

> Thank you in advance.

>

> Dianne

>

>

[Guest guest]

Diane,

Welcome! Try not to let yourself feel cornered. We aren't saying surgery is

or isn't wrong, just that many of us, myself included, are at the corner with no

more options and we still have the pain but nothing to do about it. Everyone

told me, " when you are ready, you will know it " about my craniocervical fusion.

I knew I was miserable and I had explored all the options in easy reach. You are

right about the pain, it needs a whole new word for this stuff, for sure. So I

went ahead and it was worth it to me but not once did anyone tell me " after

this, there are no more options " .

I know that you will do what is right for you.

Good luck and God bless,

Lexie

[Guest guest]

>

> Hello, Bee. My name is . I am new to the group. I just wanted to say

thank you for the great group and website. It's funny, I had been exploring

traditional diets on the WAPF website, but saw your group randomly on and

signed up on a whim, not knowing there were a lot of connections there. That's

how life works, I think.

>

> I know I have a candida problem, I've been to an MD-turned-nutritionist who

gave me probiotics, Candidaway (herbal), and the diet, but I couldn't stick with

it. The diet allowed grains and fruit, which I was suspicious of (I knew I had a

wheat problem, and was not sure about other grains, either).

>

> Your diet is so much better. I feel full forever from the " good fats " . So much

so that I've had to tinker around with things, because sometimes I'm not ready

to eat by my lunch break (6am-12:30). I used to be famished by 9-10am!

Eliminating all the carbs has helped with cravings, big time. It feels different

without them, though. I've had to get used to feeling full without the carb

bloated-ness. It's more like satiety.

>

> So I'm hoping for a speedy recovery! I know, I know, like 2 or 3 years (I'm

30). I just want to try to get myself really built up before I get pregnant

again (hopefully this summer or fall) even though I will not be fully healed. I

feel like you've given me the tools to get through this. Thank you again.

+++Hi . Welcome to our group. That's wonderful you've already discovered

the benefits of good fats and low-carbs.

Please ensure you read two article: 1) How to Successfully Overcome Candida, and

2) Curing Candida, How to Get Started (even though you are well on your way):

http://www.healingnaturallybybee.com/candida/index.php

Also see these wonderful Success Stories by members of this group:

http://www.healingnaturallybybee.com/success/index.php

It would be much wiser to wait to get pregnant until you have cured your candida

since your baby will acquire it upon conception. As Dr. Price writes we acquire

the " nutritional status " of both parents upon conception, so your husband should

also be sure he is healthy. This explains more about how babies acquire

candida: http://www.healingnaturallybybee.com/articles/baby.php

The best in health, Bee

[Guest guest]

Dianne,

 

 You sure have been through a lot. It's good you are checking around and asking

questions...something I never did. There's plenty of people here who've had

cervical fusions, ask around about their experiences as well. I wish you all the

luck in the world!!!

--- in RI

 

 

From: Dianne <dianne12315@...>

Subject: Re: New Member

spinal problems

Date: Thursday, April 2, 2009, 6:38 AM

,

This dr is in a group with 6 other neurosurgeons and he is the only one

in the group who has had the most experience in cervical spine surgery.

This group of drs are the only ones in our county and the hospital in

not a small local hospital. It is a regional medical center with an

accredited trauma unit. I say it's local only because it's in the same

community as me. The hospital itself comes highly recommended for trauma

to spines, strokes and heart attacks. It has it's own cardiovascular

section where they do bypass surgery etc.

I also live near a big rehab hospital (Helen Hospital) who has a

very good spinal team and thinking of calling them today just to see

what they say or if they will give advice or an appointment.

I am also close to NYC but this dr trained in the city hospitals so not

so sure they are better than he is just because they are located in NYC.

I have a lot to think about and a lot of research to do before Monday

night.

Thanks for your input and advice.

Dianne

> >

> >

> > Hi Everyone,

> >

> > I'm new to the group but not to neck or back pain. I've had ongoing

> neck

> > problems for the past 20+ years.

> >

> > In the beginning of Feb 2009 I was sitting here playing Solitaire on

> my

> > computer when I felt this intense pain between my shoulder blades. I

> > didn't think too much of it and figured it would feel better by the

> next

> > day. Unfortunately it didn't and got so bad I finally resorted to

> > goingto my doctor. He gave me 4 shots of cortisone in my

neck/shoulder

> > blade (right side) but it didn't help. A few days later I went back

> > because of the intense pain and he sent me for an MRI. The MRI

showed

> I

> > have a " moderate herniation at C6-7 level. " By now the pain is going

> > down my arm and my thumb, index and middle fingers are tingling at

> > times. My regular MD didn't feel it was necessary to send me to an

> > orthopedic so he ordered Lortabs 10mg which did next to nothing for

> me.

> >

> > I started seeing a Chiropractor who started using the Tens Unit(?)

and

> > heat. This kind of felt good but as soon as I was back in my car the

> > pain returned. I called him the next day and then Spinal

Decompression

> > was started. I found this to be very painful but he was persistent

and

> > said it would help as long as I stuck with it.

> >

> > After 5 visits I called my orthopedic md and he told me that nothing

> was

> > going to work and he was more than 99% sure I was going to need

> surgery.

> > Not what I wanted to hear. He did start me on the Medrol Pack and I

> got

> > some relief from the sterioids. Once they finished I called the

> > Neurosurgeon and got an appointment right away. As soon as he

examined

> > me he said I needed surgery because my triceps muscle was not as it

> > should be and he was even more convinced once he looked at my MRI.

He

> > showed me the herniation and showed where it was pressing on my

spinal

> > cord and nerves. The pain I have been in for the past 6 - 8 weeks is

> > like nothing else I've ever felt. Having my gall bladder out was a

> > picnic compared to this.

> >

> > I'm having surgery on April 7 and from what he told me I will also

> have

> > screws in my neck when he is done. I know the name of the procedure

he

> > is doing but right now it has slipped my mind. He also says I will

be

> > back to work (lifting, pulling etc) in a week.

> >

> > I am wondering if anyone here has an encouraging words for me since

> all

> > my friends are telling me to think twice. I'm not so sure I can

forego

> > this surgery. The pain is to the point where I want it gone.

> >

> > Thank you in advance.

> >

> > Dianne

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> > ------------ --------- --------- ------

> >

> >

[Guest guest]

Hi Diane,

I have had an anterior cervical fusion. While it was relatively easy compared to

another surgery I had, there was no way in hades I was ready to be lifting and

" back to normal " in a week. I was only in the hospital two days but then could

not drive for six weeks, and after back at work it took me at least three months

to feel truly back to normal. I would hate for you to think you are going to be

back to normal in a week and have no support system in place to help you while

you heal.

You also need to ask your surgeon about future problems from the surgery. While

the surgery gave me immediate relief in my neck/shoulder blades/shoulder/arm and

hand, it only took about 8 months before the next disc started degenerating

rapidly. If you have DDD or DJD I think that surgery speeds up the degenerative

process on the disc above and below where the fusion is placed. I had no choice

but to have the surgery because my arm muscle was wasting and I was losing use

of my hand. I just wish someone had warned me about future problems. I was under

the nieve assumption that it would fix everything and I wouldn't have to deal

neck problems anymore, but that was not the case.

Good luck to you!

Barb

>

> From: Dianne <dianne12315>

> Subject: New Member

> spinedisorderssuppo rtgroup@gro ups.com

> Date: Wednesday, April 1, 2009, 5:43 PM

>

> Hi Everyone,

>

> I'm new to the group but not to neck or back pain. I've had ongoing neck

> problems for the past 20+ years.

>

> In the beginning of Feb 2009 I was sitting here playing Solitaire on my

> computer when I felt this intense pain between my shoulder blades. I

> didn't think too much of it and figured it would feel better by the next

> day. Unfortunately it didn't and got so bad I finally resorted to

> goingto my doctor. He gave me 4 shots of cortisone in my neck/shoulder

> blade (right side) but it didn't help. A few days later I went back

> because of the intense pain and he sent me for an MRI. The MRI showed I

> have a " moderate herniation at C6-7 level. " By now the pain is going

> down my arm and my thumb, index and middle fingers are tingling at

> times. My regular MD didn't feel it was necessary to send me to an

> orthopedic so he ordered Lortabs 10mg which did next to nothing for me.

>

> I started seeing a Chiropractor who started using the Tens Unit(?) and

> heat. This kind of felt good but as soon as I was back in my car the

> pain returned. I called him the next day and then Spinal Decompression

> was started. I found this to be very painful but he was persistent and

> said it would help as long as I stuck with it.

>

> After 5 visits I called my orthopedic md and he told me that nothing was

> going to work and he was more than 99% sure I was going to need surgery.

> Not what I wanted to hear. He did start me on the Medrol Pack and I got

> some relief from the sterioids. Once they finished I called the

> Neurosurgeon and got an appointment right away. As soon as he examined

> me he said I needed surgery because my triceps muscle was not as it

> should be and he was even more convinced once he looked at my MRI. He

> showed me the herniation and showed where it was pressing on my spinal

> cord and nerves. The pain I have been in for the past 6 - 8 weeks is

> like nothing else I've ever felt. Having my gall bladder out was a

> picnic compared to this.

>

> I'm having surgery on April 7 and from what he told me I will also have

> screws in my neck when he is done. I know the name of the procedure he

> is doing but right now it has slipped my mind. He also says I will be

> back to work (lifting, pulling etc) in a week.

>

> I am wondering if anyone here has an encouraging words for me since all

> my friends are telling me to think twice. I'm not so sure I can forego

> this surgery. The pain is to the point where I want it gone.

>

> Thank you in advance.

>

> Dianne

>

>

[Guest guest]

Diane,

 

Until I read this post i had somehow missed you saying that the doc said you

would be back to work lifting and pulling in a week. I would be incredibly

sleptical of a doc that tells you that. The bone pain alone from the placement

of the screws will be great, but no one should be lifting or pulling anything a

week after surgery and that goes for almost every surgery there is. Your body

needs the time necessary to heal itself. After a week you will probably still be

in bed with exhaustion as your body works 24 hours a day to heal itself, as well

as pain. Also keep in mind that if you are taking strong pain medication, you

will not be able to return to work. Also, you should be aware of the high

potential for nerve damage as the neck is highly innervated. Nerve damage is one

of the most common risks of spine surgery, anywhere along the spine, but it's

more dangerous in the neck, as injury below that point affects you from that

point down.

 

Also, As Barb said, it will indeed put strain on the adjacent levels, both above

and below. This will speed up degeneration and herniation of those levels. It

didn't take long after my last fusion for me to feel those effectsand they scare

me more than anything. I don't want to keep going until my whole spine is fused.

 

This is all part of your information gathering process. Talk to other about

their experiences. Ask your surgeon for specifics  about your procedure and what

to expect after.

 

---

 

 

From: ellijaygal <ellijaygal@...>

Subject: Re: New Member

spinal problems

Date: Thursday, April 2, 2009, 7:33 AM

Hi Diane,

I have had an anterior cervical fusion. While it was relatively easy compared to

another surgery I had, there was no way in hades I was ready to be lifting and

" back to normal " in a week. I was only in the hospital two days but then could

not drive for six weeks, and after back at work it took me at least three months

to feel truly back to normal. I would hate for you to think you are going to be

back to normal in a week and have no support system in place to help you while

you heal.

You also need to ask your surgeon about future problems from the surgery. While

the surgery gave me immediate relief in my neck/shoulder blades/shoulder/ arm

and hand, it only took about 8 months before the next disc started degenerating

rapidly. If you have DDD or DJD I think that surgery speeds up the degenerative

process on the disc above and below where the fusion is placed. I had no choice

but to have the surgery because my arm muscle was wasting and I was losing use

of my hand. I just wish someone had warned me about future problems. I was under

the nieve assumption that it would fix everything and I wouldn't have to deal

neck problems anymore, but that was not the case.

Good luck to you!

Barb

>

> From: Dianne <dianne12315>

> Subject: New Member

> spinedisorderssuppo rtgroup@gro ups.com

> Date: Wednesday, April 1, 2009, 5:43 PM

>

> Hi Everyone,

>

> I'm new to the group but not to neck or back pain. I've had ongoing neck

> problems for the past 20+ years.

>

> In the beginning of Feb 2009 I was sitting here playing Solitaire on my

> computer when I felt this intense pain between my shoulder blades. I

> didn't think too much of it and figured it would feel better by the next

> day. Unfortunately it didn't and got so bad I finally resorted to

> goingto my doctor. He gave me 4 shots of cortisone in my neck/shoulder

> blade (right side) but it didn't help. A few days later I went back

> because of the intense pain and he sent me for an MRI. The MRI showed I

> have a " moderate herniation at C6-7 level. " By now the pain is going

> down my arm and my thumb, index and middle fingers are tingling at

> times. My regular MD didn't feel it was necessary to send me to an

> orthopedic so he ordered Lortabs 10mg which did next to nothing for me.

>

> I started seeing a Chiropractor who started using the Tens Unit(?) and

> heat. This kind of felt good but as soon as I was back in my car the

> pain returned. I called him the next day and then Spinal Decompression

> was started. I found this to be very painful but he was persistent and

> said it would help as long as I stuck with it.

>

> After 5 visits I called my orthopedic md and he told me that nothing was

> going to work and he was more than 99% sure I was going to need surgery.

> Not what I wanted to hear. He did start me on the Medrol Pack and I got

> some relief from the sterioids. Once they finished I called the

> Neurosurgeon and got an appointment right away. As soon as he examined

> me he said I needed surgery because my triceps muscle was not as it

> should be and he was even more convinced once he looked at my MRI. He

> showed me the herniation and showed where it was pressing on my spinal

> cord and nerves. The pain I have been in for the past 6 - 8 weeks is

> like nothing else I've ever felt. Having my gall bladder out was a

> picnic compared to this.

>

> I'm having surgery on April 7 and from what he told me I will also have

> screws in my neck when he is done. I know the name of the procedure he

> is doing but right now it has slipped my mind. He also says I will be

> back to work (lifting, pulling etc) in a week.

>

> I am wondering if anyone here has an encouraging words for me since all

> my friends are telling me to think twice. I'm not so sure I can forego

> this surgery. The pain is to the point where I want it gone.

>

> Thank you in advance.

>

> Dianne

>

>

[Guest guest]

Dianne,

I see you are getting bombarded with a lot of information, IMHO you are a very

lucky person to have joined this group, and receive such. Above all things after

you come home post-opt please be careful, don't let feeling better lead you to

believe your good to go, it takes time for that fusion to mend itself and you

don't want it to move. If you take this info and use it wisely, you will be

better off in the long run. We have all been through what you are about to

experience. Simply put, you are among friends here no matter if you just joined

or have been here from the beginning.

Take care of yourself, and especially take very good care of you neck.

We will all be praying for you.

 

Bama,

 

The dog has seldom been successful in pulling man up to its level of sagacity,

but man has frequently dragged the dog down to his. Thurber

                                                                            

________________________________

From: ellijaygal <ellijaygal@...>

spinal problems

Sent: Thursday, April 2, 2009 6:33:09 AM

Subject: Re: New Member

Hi Diane,

I have had an anterior cervical fusion. While it was relatively easy compared to

another surgery I had, there was no way in hades I was ready to be lifting and

" back to normal " in a week. I was only in the hospital two days but then could

not drive for six weeks, and after back at work it took me at least three months

to feel truly back to normal. I would hate for you to think you are going to be

back to normal in a week and have no support system in place to help you while

you heal.

You also need to ask your surgeon about future problems from the surgery. While

the surgery gave me immediate relief in my neck/shoulder blades/shoulder/ arm

and hand, it only took about 8 months before the next disc started degenerating

rapidly. If you have DDD or DJD I think that surgery speeds up the degenerative

process on the disc above and below where the fusion is placed. I had no choice

but to have the surgery because my arm muscle was wasting and I was losing use

of my hand. I just wish someone had warned me about future problems. I was under

the nieve assumption that it would fix everything and I wouldn't have to deal

neck problems anymore, but that was not the case.

Good luck to you!

Barb

>

> From: Dianne <dianne12315>

> Subject: New Member

> spinedisorderssuppo rtgroup@gro ups.com

> Date: Wednesday, April 1, 2009, 5:43 PM

>

> Hi Everyone,

>

> I'm new to the group but not to neck or back pain. I've had ongoing neck

> problems for the past 20+ years.

>

> In the beginning of Feb 2009 I was sitting here playing Solitaire on my

> computer when I felt this intense pain between my shoulder blades. I

> didn't think too much of it and figured it would feel better by the next

> day. Unfortunately it didn't and got so bad I finally resorted to

> goingto my doctor. He gave me 4 shots of cortisone in my neck/shoulder

> blade (right side) but it didn't help. A few days later I went back

> because of the intense pain and he sent me for an MRI. The MRI showed I

> have a " moderate herniation at C6-7 level. " By now the pain is going

> down my arm and my thumb, index and middle fingers are tingling at

> times. My regular MD didn't feel it was necessary to send me to an

> orthopedic so he ordered Lortabs 10mg which did next to nothing for me.

>

> I started seeing a Chiropractor who started using the Tens Unit(?) and

> heat. This kind of felt good but as soon as I was back in my car the

> pain returned. I called him the next day and then Spinal Decompression

> was started. I found this to be very painful but he was persistent and

> said it would help as long as I stuck with it.

>

> After 5 visits I called my orthopedic md and he told me that nothing was

> going to work and he was more than 99% sure I was going to need surgery.

> Not what I wanted to hear. He did start me on the Medrol Pack and I got

> some relief from the sterioids. Once they finished I called the

> Neurosurgeon and got an appointment right away. As soon as he examined

> me he said I needed surgery because my triceps muscle was not as it

> should be and he was even more convinced once he looked at my MRI. He

> showed me the herniation and showed where it was pressing on my spinal

> cord and nerves. The pain I have been in for the past 6 - 8 weeks is

> like nothing else I've ever felt. Having my gall bladder out was a

> picnic compared to this.

>

> I'm having surgery on April 7 and from what he told me I will also have

> screws in my neck when he is done. I know the name of the procedure he

> is doing but right now it has slipped my mind. He also says I will be

> back to work (lifting, pulling etc) in a week.

>

> I am wondering if anyone here has an encouraging words for me since all

> my friends are telling me to think twice. I'm not so sure I can forego

> this surgery. The pain is to the point where I want it gone.

>

> Thank you in advance.

>

> Dianne

>

>

[Guest guest]

How's your diet? What sort of work do you do?

New Member

>> spinal problems

>> Date: Wednesday, April 1, 2009, 5:43 PM

>>

>>

>>

>>

>>

>>

>>

>> Hi Everyone,

>>

>> I'm new to the group but not to neck or back pain. I've had ongoing

> neck

>> problems for the past 20+ years.

>>

>> In the beginning of Feb 2009 I was sitting here playing Solitaire on

> my

>> computer when I felt this intense pain between my shoulder blades. I

>> didn't think too much of it and figured it would feel better by the

> next

>> day. Unfortunately it didn't and got so bad I finally resorted to

>> goingto my doctor. He gave me 4 shots of cortisone in my neck/shoulder

>> blade (right side) but it didn't help. A few days later I went back

>> because of the intense pain and he sent me for an MRI. The MRI showed

> I

>> have a " moderate herniation at C6-7 level. " By now the pain is going

>> down my arm and my thumb, index and middle fingers are tingling at

>> times. My regular MD didn't feel it was necessary to send me to an

>> orthopedic so he ordered Lortabs 10mg which did next to nothing for

> me.

>>

>> I started seeing a Chiropractor who started using the Tens Unit(?) and

>> heat. This kind of felt good but as soon as I was back in my car the

>> pain returned. I called him the next day and then Spinal Decompression

>> was started. I found this to be very painful but he was persistent and

>> said it would help as long as I stuck with it.

>>

>> After 5 visits I called my orthopedic md and he told me that nothing

> was

>> going to work and he was more than 99% sure I was going to need

> surgery.

>> Not what I wanted to hear. He did start me on the Medrol Pack and I

> got

>> some relief from the sterioids. Once they finished I called the

>> Neurosurgeon and got an appointment right away. As soon as he examined

>> me he said I needed surgery because my triceps muscle was not as it

>> should be and he was even more convinced once he looked at my MRI. He

>> showed me the herniation and showed where it was pressing on my spinal

>> cord and nerves. The pain I have been in for the past 6 - 8 weeks is

>> like nothing else I've ever felt. Having my gall bladder out was a

>> picnic compared to this.

>>

>> I'm having surgery on April 7 and from what he told me I will also

> have

>> screws in my neck when he is done. I know the name of the procedure he

>> is doing but right now it has slipped my mind. He also says I will be

>> back to work (lifting, pulling etc) in a week.

>>

>> I am wondering if anyone here has an encouraging words for me since

> all

>> my friends are telling me to think twice. I'm not so sure I can forego

>> this surgery. The pain is to the point where I want it gone.

>>

>> Thank you in advance.

>>

>> Dianne

>>

>>

>>

>>

>>

>>

>>

>>

>>

>>

>>

>>

>>

>>

>>

>>

>>

>>

>>

>>

[Guest guest]

I travelled from Alabama to New York to find specialist in the field I needed

for my spinal surgery.

Lexie

[Guest guest]

Welcome to the group Robin. It makes me sad to see someone your age

already suffering with pain. How is your recovery going?

new member

Date: Fri, 17 Apr 2009 16:49:42 -0000

Hi,

My name is Robin,I am 14 and a new member.

On December 10 I suffered a severe spinal cord injury at the T3 to T4

level.

I have spent the last eight weeks in a rehabilitation center learning

to walk with crutches and HKAFO braces.The braces also include a

heavy leatherTLSO brace that attaces to the pelvic band and extends

The HKAFO to just below my shoulders.

Robin

uch

--

Email2me.... The email service that cares. It is FREE.

http://www.email2me.com

[Guest guest]

Welcome to the group Robin. It makes me sad to see someone your age

already suffering with pain. How is your recovery going?

new member

Date: Fri, 17 Apr 2009 16:49:42 -0000

Hi,

My name is Robin,I am 14 and a new member.

On December 10 I suffered a severe spinal cord injury at the T3 to T4

level.

I have spent the last eight weeks in a rehabilitation center learning

to walk with crutches and HKAFO braces.The braces also include a

heavy leatherTLSO brace that attaces to the pelvic band and extends

The HKAFO to just below my shoulders.

Robin

uch

--

Email2me.... The email service that cares. It is FREE.

http://www.email2me.com

[Guest guest]

Welcome to the group, sharing your experiences will help others manage, cope, or

overcome the various issues with spine disorders. You may help out others

without knowing it.

Each of us has something to unique to offer, a thought to share, and to lean on

when having a bad day.

Each discussion can give an answer to a particular issue a group member

has been looking for, even if it seems insignificant someone else may need

exactly what is being posted.

Please keep us updated on your status, and how your progress is coming along.

Hope you feel better and can work out any issues that come up.

[Guest guest]

Welcome to the group, sharing your experiences will help others manage, cope, or

overcome the various issues with spine disorders. You may help out others

without knowing it.

Each of us has something to unique to offer, a thought to share, and to lean on

when having a bad day.

Each discussion can give an answer to a particular issue a group member

has been looking for, even if it seems insignificant someone else may need

exactly what is being posted.

Please keep us updated on your status, and how your progress is coming along.

Hope you feel better and can work out any issues that come up.

[Guest guest]

Hi Robin,

I'm sorry you are going through so much. I hope everything is looking up for

you. Where are you from?

Barb

>

> Hi,

> My name is Robin,I am 14 and a new member.

> On December 10 I suffered a severe spinal cord injury at the T3

to T4 level.

> I have spent the last eight weeks in a rehabilitation center

learning to walk with crutches and HKAFO braces.The braces also include a heavy

leatherTLSO brace that attaces to the pelvic band and extends The HKAFO to just

below my shoulders.

>

>

> Robin

>

[Guest guest]

Hi Robin,

I'm sorry you are going through so much. I hope everything is looking up for

you. Where are you from?

Barb

>

> Hi,

> My name is Robin,I am 14 and a new member.

> On December 10 I suffered a severe spinal cord injury at the T3

to T4 level.

> I have spent the last eight weeks in a rehabilitation center

learning to walk with crutches and HKAFO braces.The braces also include a heavy

leatherTLSO brace that attaces to the pelvic band and extends The HKAFO to just

below my shoulders.

>

>

> Robin

>

[Guest guest]

Hi Robin,

I'm glad you wrote about yourself. Keep talking to us. This is a group

of good, helpful people who will respond to your questions with

kindness.

On Apr 17, 2009, at 12:49 PM, bracedteen32 wrote:

Hi,

My name is Robin,I am 14 and a new member.

On December 10 I suffered a severe spinal cord injury

at the T3 to T4 level.

I have spent the last eight weeks in a rehabilitation

center learning to walk with crutches and HKAFO braces.The braces also

include a heavy leatherTLSO brace that attaces to the pelvic band and

extends The HKAFO to just below my shoulders.

Robin

------------------------------------

[Guest guest]

________________________________

From: April <nanny04@...>

spinal problems

Sent: Friday, April 17, 2009 11:57:44 AM

Subject: Re: new member

                                    Wednesday will be the first time I will be

outside either yhe hospital or rehabilitation center since the accident.

                                     The outing is for an audiologist's

appointment. I have a severe hearing loss in both ears since I was 5-years

old.  

                                                                           Robin

Welcome to the group Robin. It makes me sad to see someone your age

already suffering with pain. How is your recovery going?

new member

Date: Fri, 17 Apr 2009 16:49:42 -0000

Hi,

My name is Robin,I am 14 and a new member.

On December 10 I suffered a severe spinal cord injury at the T3 to T4

level.

I have spent the last eight weeks in a rehabilitation center learning

to walk with crutches and HKAFO braces.The braces also include a

heavy leatherTLSO brace that attaces to the pelvic band and extends

The HKAFO to just below my shoulders.

Robin

uch

--

Email2me.... The email service that cares. It is FREE.

http://www.email2me.com

[Guest guest]

Good luck Robin, I hope your appointment brings good results. I want to welcome

you to the group also, I know you will find a lot of support and friendship

here.

Take care and God Bless!!

 

Bama,

 

The dog has seldom been successful in pulling man up to its level of sagacity,

but man has frequently dragged the dog down to his. Thurber

                                                                            

                                    Wednesday will be the first time I will be

outside either yhe hospital or rehabilitation center since the accident.

                                     The outing is for an audiologist' s

appointment. I have a severe hearing loss in both ears since I was 5-years

old.  

                                                                           Robin

Welcome to the group Robin. It makes me sad to see someone your age

already suffering with pain. How is your recovery going?

new member

Date: Fri, 17 Apr 2009 16:49:42 -0000

Hi,

My name is Robin,I am 14 and a new member.

On December 10 I suffered a severe spinal cord injury at the T3 to T4

level.

I have spent the last eight weeks in a rehabilitation center learning

to walk with crutches and HKAFO braces.The braces also include a

heavy leatherTLSO brace that attaces to the pelvic band and extends

The HKAFO to just below my shoulders.

Robin

uch

--

Email2me.... The email service that cares. It is FREE.

http://www.email2me.com