Hi, and I am sorry about the accident you had. I know you are scared. Anytime they want to do surgery on the back, it is that way.
My suggestion is NOT to do the chiropracter at all at this point. Pulling and pushing on a herniated back is not a good idea. From all I have learned on this site in the several years I have been here, points to NOT doing the chiropracter when surgery is being considered. I would not go in again if I were in your shoes, not until a neruo surgern agrees with this approach.
Too many things are involved with your back. You need top notch professionals to help you.
Also the fact your pain specialst said he could not do more for you. This is not correct. They can and often do more than what you are currently receiving. find a different pain specialist.
I am facing surgery, neither the surgeon, nor my pain specialist wanted to cover post surgical pain. WHAT???? Yep.
What is a pain patient suppose to do? I interviewed 4 different doctors is what I did. I actively looked for a new physician for a month before I found this new person. If one doc. doesn't work out, you have to seek another one. I hated to go out and do that too, but I need the help, so I will work for it. I turned down two of them too! You can say NO, you can decide for yourself, who is good for you.
Pain doctors are afraid to prescribe all the time. You have to find one that has some compassion. My new doc. actually gave me more than what I need. She lets me decide how many per day, and I always pick BELOW what I am allowed. She allowed me some control in my own pain level. That kind of trust ususally takes some time to develope. In this case, this new doctor did trust me, as I brought in all records, charts, MRI, all of it.
Hope you seek the help in all areas of this. Make sure you get a complete understanding of all surgical proceedures. My ankle specialist did not show me my MRI, even though I directly askedhim to do this twice. On the 15th I am going to another ankle specialist for another opinion, as I was NOT satisfied with what he told me. I don't understand, and until I do understand the proceedures needed, my answer will be NO to surgery. My PCP does NOT agree with the surgeon, another reason for another opinion. Yes I have trouble both in my akles and in my neck. I have degenerative joint disease of some kind.
Thank you for telling me about your situation. You have your plate full, and none of it is great. I will look up some more things later. I have a realtor in the middle of my mess, to put my house up for sale...long story.....will be back in touch. ginnie