My appointment with my PMP

[RunningMom]

It went very well yesterday.  We sat down and talked over everything.  He kept asking me if I had any concerns or questions.  He took all the time I had needed.  There is nothing more he can do for me right now and has referred me to his surgeon.  I see the surgeon on Monday.  I'm scared to death to have surgery, but I can not live in this pain and not be able to function with my daily life.  Also, I don't think you can live with cervical spinal cord compression without permanent nerve damage.  I'm assuming I will continue to see my PMP after the surgery.

[bev62]

I really believe that reason I ended up like this is it took so long to get the surgery.  I've talked to several people that had the same surgery and they are so much better.  Just don't wait to long to have the surgery.

[RunningMom]

This is the biggest fear I have is being in pain for the rest of my life, especially when it is this severe.  I fear if this does happen, I won't get the help I need.  Then I think about it and I can't live in the current pain I am in.  Even on medications my pain is still very severe.  I'm a runner(or I use to be) and I plan on running again once it is safe enough for me to do so.  

[bev62]

Your right you can't live with spinal cord compression without permanent nerve damage.  I had a two level cervical fusion in Nov 2006.  It was put off for a year and a half due to dealing with workers comp.  I have never recovered.  I'm now on disability due to chronic pain and severe depression.  I'll be in pain management for the rest of my life and it gives very little releif.  The longer you wait the worse it can be, so don't put it off if surgery is what the doctors recommend. Good luck.

[Tuckamore]

Hi RunningMom,

I am glad that things went so well with the new physician. I understand you fear of surgery. Non of us look forward to it. However if it will reduce your pain and allow you to function again it will be worth it.

Learn all you can about the procedure, educate yourself. That way you will be able to make an informed decision. I always ask the surgeon how many times he has preformed this particular surgery and what is his success rate. Make a list of questions and take them with you. Ask the pros and cons, worse case scenario and best case scenario.

I am glad that you updated us. I have been wondering how you are doing. Please keep in touch. And as always, take care, Tuck