Should I have surgery or not have surgery?

[Dwaynen]

I have been in and out of the hospital for the last year now.  I went into the ER with major back pain.  They did a CT scan and found a problem with my kidneys.  After three surgeries the finally fixed the kidney problem, but the pain was still there and getting worse.  I had an MRI and CT scan with contrast done.  They found three protrding disc.  two were in the T-spine and one in the L-spine.  The worse one (and the one they think is causing the pain) is at L4-L5 and is 3.5mm.  I have been on 15mg of oxicodone and it doesn't take the pain away.  The pain is there if I stand, bend or sit.  This is a serious problem for me because I am a diesle mechanic and I am unable to perform my job.  PT already said that they can not do anything for my problem and I am getting a second opinion from the neurosurgen next week.  Do you think surgery will be the only way to fix this problem?

[missy142]

hi,
I have several disc herniations myself, cervical, thoracic, and lumbar.  the ones in my neck are midly compressing my spinal cord, the thoracic are pressing on the thecal sac (which protects the cord).

I have not had surgery yet.  Surgery is the last resort.  Why has PT said they can not help you first of all?

Second have discussed with your md the use of steroids, ie. oral first and possibly epidural?  If not discuss with him.

If he doesnt want to do anything but cut, get a new doctor.  All options need to be eplored before surgery can be discussed providing your are a surgical candidate,another question?

Having surgery is not the  magic panacea, with it comes all sorts of new problems. People that have surgery often times have to have more surgeries for a variety of reasons you need to research.  Alot of surgeries also do not have the outcome that is expected by the patient.  You must do your research, and get a second opinion and third if necessary.

good luck
missy

[selmaS]

Hi and welcome to the back and neck support forum.

Do u know if it iis ur tail bone that is causing ur pain?

As for what u should do, well u most likely have not found the right dr...when u do u will be able to make an informed decesion.

Try and take a look at ur posture as well...it can lead to pain.

"selma"