Quote:
Originally Posted by Beckel
Yes, Gator I am in no hurry for any more surgery at this time. I am just wondering what the alternative treatment would be for the osteophytic bar. At this time, I use heat alot, pain medication when it gets really bad and Biofreeze, a topical pain relief gel. I also take Robaxin on a daily basis. The pain woke me up at 4 a.m. this morning and I felt like I was being stabbed in the arm and shoulder. Just curious if it is something I am going to have to live with. One other thing I have noticed is that my right arm is becoming progressively weaker. I cannot lift anything very heavy at all and I have a lot of trouble with my hand grip. As far as the canal stenosis, it is moderate right now. What alternative non-invasive treatment would be used for that? Is the stenosis contributing to the pain I am having or is it strictly related to the bone spurs? I really appreciate you taking the time to answer my questions.
|
Well, no one pushes for surgery, but when they do it isn't for resolution of pain. It is for cord preservation and mechanical function and it seems as if both of those areas are being hindered. Listen to YOUR body. I would also suggest going out of network to get a second opinion. I was told I was good, it was in my head only to find out I had a broken neck for two years.... They can try injections as an alternative, medrol dose pack (oral steroids). PT is NOT going to improve this condition. In fact it could make it worse as there is possible erosion to the cord and nerve root from that bone spur. If it were soft tissue then PT would be a viable option. Give Naproxen a try if you have not already. I tried all of the anti inflammatory and I just had an amazing breakthrough in condition with mine with a drug called diclofenac sodium. The two popular names for it are Cataflam and Voltaren.