Hi cboncal,

I've been following this thread, and I'm in agreement with Ginnie.

If it turns out (whether you get the myeloscopy or not) that surgery is ruled out, then IMO pain management is your next best option. In some cases it may be preferable to surgery anyway.

Google: questions to ask pain management

I also have multi-level cervical issues deemed inoperative. I get the same headaches & muscle spasms. Some of the spasming is due to the stenosis, and some is due to the inflamation of the arthritis. One thing that my PM doctor sent me for was myofascial trigger point therapy, done by a CERTIFIED MTP Therapist (NOT a PT, chiro, or other massage therapist who claim they know the same stuff). It has done wonders for both my neck and other difficult muscle-related pain issues. In addition, I've had to strengthen my neck muscles, learn how to relax them (as much as I can), and re-learn some posture techniques and how to sleep to avoid strain on my neck.

I don't believe in recommending/suggesting specific pain medications, even in a peer-support capacity. I think that's best left between doctor and patient because not everything works the same for everyone, and there are many factors/medical issues to consider.

Your PM doctor may prescribe a muscle relaxer or anti-spasmodic along with a pain medication. Please be aware that if patients don't specifically tell their doctors that something isn't working, the doctor may not ask; they will assume that everything is ok/working, so speak up and be specific. There are many many medications in each of these classes, and while extreme care must be taken when using them, if one or more don't work, there are others that may be tried. It can take time and trials to find the right pain management formula (whether medication, other, or combined therapies) for each individual. Moral: Hang in there.

Doc