Herniated cervical disc

[Shipp]

I am a 53 year old male. I have left cervical radiculopathy. My family doctor noted absent reflex in the left arm and ordered an MRI. She prescribed Lodine and I have seen a Chiropractor for spinal manipulation with no relief.
MRI CONCLUSION:
1. Left foraminal HNP C4-5
2. Right C3-4 bony spur
3.Mild degenerative disc disease C5-6
I am considering a percutaneous micro-decompression cervical discectomy with laser thermodiskoplasty. Do you have an opinion of the efficacy of this procedure? My symptoms seem to be coming from the herniation at C4-5.

[Diane]

My "reply" is for the CCF Neuro MD:
Would you please reply to the questions and comments by Frank on Sunday, January 09, 2000. I did not see his answered.  There are some similariaties between several of his problems and my husband.   Thank you in advance.

[Judy - Follow-up question]

Hi Sue,

I believe that weakness is consider a serious condition because, If it continues it could lead to loss of use of that part of your body that is weak. You are losing motor function.

Loss of motor function would get me to surgery quicker than pain. Particularly, if it is getting worse.

Surgery will hurt - no doubt about it.

[sue]

AFter reading all the posts above I wonder: What is the criterion for a neurosurgeon recommending surgery?? I have herniation of C3 (mild)and C5-6 (severe) compressing the left side of the spinal cord. One neurologist did a strength test ( good one ) and even I noticed weakness on the left side compared to the right. However, I am not in pain! At least not yet from what I am hearing! What's the scoop? Why is my neurosurgeon recommending the possibility of
disc removal with bone graft when I am not in pain? Could having the surgery cause pain? What would you recommend? The MRI showed the above results. I am having an EMG in late September and was told that if that came out positive then surgery would be discussed. Why? If I am not in pain....does the weakness signs supercede any others? I need to be informed and your answers would be much appreciated. Please email me (if possible) at ***@****.

thank you!

[Margie Re:to patti]

I have been dealing with the neck, left arm tingling, numbness in fingers, etc. for 4 years.  I've done Physical therapy, Traction, Chiropractor, EMS, you name it!
I was referred to a Pain Managment Clinic and the Doctor there
wants to do a series of 3 Epidural Steriod shots. I am afraid of these shots.  I'll tell you 4 years ago, I would have tried anything!!!!  These shots weren't available.  And I am just now researching them.  USE SURGERY as YOUR LAST option.  I have not have surgery, but from my research, surgery patients and deligent Physical Therapy (continued at home on your own)  
you come out the same at the end of 2 years.  Some days I just have to lay flat on my back.  Other days (a lot more now) I am able to drive, which I couldn't do 4 years ago.  I am limited to lifting only 10 pounds and no over head lifting.  SURGERY will come with restrictions and Rehab as well.  Get as much information as you can.
Good luck to you, and if you know anything about the epidural steroid shots please email me at ***@****
Whatever you decide, make sure it's not one that is irreversable.

[Margie Re:to patti]

read the one to Patti, I had your names mixed up.
Email me at ***@****
I have been through a lot of different treatments.

[susieq]

I have empathy for all you fine people out there with herniated discs. I also have a herniated disc at c6-7. I will be having outpatient surgery in Ca. in August. The procedure is called CED which means cervical endoscopic discectomy. The bulge will be sucked out with a scope-only 10% of the disc is removed and it is local anethesia. Has anyone here had this procedure? I have pain and weakness down my right arm. I have seen a chiro and done 8 weeks physical therapy without much success.