Living in constant pain

[loza67]

I have been living with constant upper back neck pain for the last 2 years, previous to that i had lower back pain. I think i am a pretty fit 40 year old who enjoyed his sports as a kid. An mri done 2 years ago found that the left side symptoms were neural foraminal stenosis is severe on the left at c5/6,c6/7 and c7/t1 with compromise of the correspnding exiting left c6,left c7 and left c8 nerve roots.flattening at c5/c6 and c6/7. I have had a nerve root block in the posterior aspect of the left c5/6 exit foramen. This procedure did nothing at all to relieve the pain. I am finding it hard to live with the constant pain and would like any feed back to any new procedures that may help as i am living on celebrex 200mgs. Desperates for answers

[loza67]

Thanks for your feedback guys, its a pity i don't live in the states as my nuero surgeon will not operate as he feels i am still too young and will not attempt an operation unless i am  at least 65 years of age.He does not understand the constant pain i live through day in day out and how it is a struggle to play sports with my children. I think i will take your advise a seek a second opinion.

[richmill1]

I agree, I am 3 weeks post op..fusion c5,6,7..find a good neurosurgeon, get at least 2 opinions...I am feeling pretty good

[JMRIZZ]

I know exactly what you mean.  I had a cervical fusion in Aug 2007 on levels C5-6,C6-7, and C7-T1.  At first I received excellent relief, but about a month afterwards, symptoms of neck pain and headaches with shoulder pain returned.  Medication does not help anymore.  The surgeon feels the pain is coming from the facet joint at C4 because they have increased movement after the fusion.  We are exploring new meds and a joint injection.  He feels there is still room for improvement.  While several people have great results with surgery, you have to be prepared for the what if's.   Overall, I would have still went through with surgery, because it did help the numbness and weakness I was experiencing prior to surgery.  Be sure to discuss all options with your surgeon and make an informed decision.  I was at my wits end just like you and hoped for the best.  I am still hoping that the healing is not complete and this will get better with time.  Good Luck. Jo Ann