T Spine Issues

[Patti180]

I have numerous problems thoughout the spine - one of which is a "large" herniated disk in C6 and a disk bulge on C-5-T1 which idents the anterior thecal sac.  Neuro Faramina are stenotic bilaterally.  I also have severe ddd in my lower spine and various buldges herniations throughout.  I am reading about the thorasic hernations and it is making me nervous.  I have bad chest and rib pain (xrays fine) indigestion problems.  I experience extreme pain when I sit a certain way.  My ears feel like they are going to explode, my back and chest tighten and when I sit another way it stops.  I really don't want to get surgery (again)  - I did for my lower back but with the fibromyalgia it takes me a long time to heal.   Can anyone tell me what the dangers are  and what is really going onin simple terms?  

[Patti180]

Thank you.

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

Well, without knowing the relevant clinical details such as the severity of the spinal issues etc or without a detailed clinical evaluation it would be difficult to comment precisely on the situation. The chest and rib pain is likely to be due to GI causes, than spinal issues. For the spinal issues, management would depend on the severity of stenosis and compression of neural structures. While mild-moderate cases are managed conservatively, severe cases would require surgery. I would suggest discussing the appropriate management plan in detail with your treating orthopedician and getting the ear issues evaluated by n ENT doctor.
Hope this is helpful.

Take care!