Question Title: Spinal Fusion/degenerative facet joint disease...pain

I had a spinal fusion L-3,4,5,S-1 in 1975. I had been hit by a car in 1973
and TRC went in for a look after two years of relentless misdiagnoses.
According to TRC records no one has survived past 56 with this particular
operation. My more or less complete story as to my injury and medical help
is located at this url http://www.baynet.net/~mbblack/Rick2.htm
I was told in 1975 that no one who had recieved the operation I had recieved
had lived past the age of 56. I am now 47 and have seen my back failing as the years
have pasted.
The pain is increasing and I am very concerned as to my
future. I am on SSDI as of 1995, and have no real income to speak of.
My MD does not really know me very well...I have been seening him since
1995 when I got on Medicare and he is prescribing Hydrododone and Piroxicam for me
on a monthly basis. This is the first time a physician has prescribed
pain medication for my back since 1975. This is I think the first real,
honest medical help I can remember receiving since my accident over 20
years ago. My physician is afraid to get caught in the Federal push pull over pain medication
and I don't know who to go to. The pain is increasing and I am at a lost, the medication is not working to relieve the pain.
I do not know what to do anymore.
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Dear Rick,

You survived quite an injury. The fusion you had done in the early '70's was
at a time when this kind of surgery was in its infancy. In the same circummstance
today you would likely have a few extra pounds of metal in your back. The
goals of this type of surgery are to decompress the spinal cord, if necessary,
and to fuse the spine for stability. You are having recurrent chronic pain
and the same issues are of concern today.

If you are having progressively worsening pain you need to be seen by a physician.
I understand insurance is an issue, but find someone (preferably a neurologist
or surgeon)who takes medicare. You will probably need some new imaging studies
to be sure your spine has fused and to exclude the possibility of any residual
nerve compression. If these studies are negative, then a conservative approach
including pain management would be in order. Certain doctors specialize in
pain management and are very useful in offering alternatives that can help
the pain. Give it a shot.

Good luck.

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