I'm a 70-year old male in good health that has been diagnosed with DDD. I have tried all the non-surgical techniques - acupuncture, massage, spinal manipulation, and finally therapy - to no avail. I am strongly considering surgery since condition is progressively worse and debilitating. Is a laminectopy an option or should I focus strictly on a ACDF and forget about posterior surgical techniques? I live in North Carolina. Is there a hospital or clinic in the Southeast recommended for these surgical techniques?

Thanks.

WELCOME to NT!
This is a wonderful place for support and good information.
I'm sorry for the reason which brings you here, however.

Here is the link to the Spinal forum:
http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/fo...aysprune=&f=22

It's great to have you here and I hope you start getting some answers.

Caring,
Rae

Hey there, ryw. Welcome to NeuroTalk! We've got the same problem. Mine has progressed to numbness in fingertips, starting to drop keys & other smallish stuff.
I'm checking Mayo's--they do both laminectopy AWA ACDF & website provides lengthly info if you've not been there. I'm consulting in Phoenix on my way back to FL.

C.G.
65-yr old female in FL (or NM)

Hi, and welcome

This is a great community for caring people.

I'm sorry you're having these problems.

You know, DDD is bad. It is a progressive disease.

Conservative treatments are many. There's no magic. What works for one may not work the same for another. It makes it hard to get help. And another problem with "getting help," it takes time to see if something is going to work for you. I adpoted the "positive" or "negative" effect of trying something. It held pretty true to its meaning.

Surgery is permanent. Good, bad, or less desirable results are going to happen. Many variables cause these results. If you do surgery, of course we all want you to have to the best results possible. Just dont' rush into it. I know it's bad, but there's no guarantees. And just another thought... you have to let the experts tell you what you need for "your problem." I know we know our own bodies, but you have to let the surgeon do what he thinks needs to be done.

It will be bad going through surgery, but you will get through it. One day at a time.

You, your family and health care providers, and there are many, will have to help you get the best possible care they can give.

Keep asking questions. You may find yoga, stretches, correcting bad posture, better sleep somehow, meditation, and water helpful things for now. These could be good to do for everyone.

We're here for you.