I am new to this so I hope I am in the right spot lol. Just for a quick history I was in a car accident in 2009, I went off the road and hit a tree head on and then in 2011, I came out of a store and tripped over a bike rack and fell face first resulting in a concussion, whiplash, shoulder injury and strained/sprained back. I had an MRI in 2010 before my fall and it stated bulged disc and Degenerative Disk Disease and some narrowing at C5-C6. I saw a surgeon and he felt it may correct itself with time if not try traction and physio. I have done both and am still going to physio once a month or more if needed. I have been having pins and needles as well as numbness below right shoulder blade when reaching forward, crossing legs, lifting and at times driving, etc

I just had a new Cervical Spine MRI and it states:
Findings: C5-C6 No central canal stenosis. Neural foraminal narrowing is severe on the right secondary to unconvertebral osteophyte formation.
Summary: Severe neural foraminal narrowing at C5-C6 affecting C6 nerve root.


Wondering if someone can tell me what this means and wondering if surgery might be my next option. I don't see the Dr til February 5th at which time I am wondering if I should request to see the neurosurgeon again.

Hi Bucky and welcome to NeuroTalk. Here is the link to our Spinal Disorders Forum..http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/forum22.html

Lots of good information and support there. I'm glad you've joined us but sorry for the reason.

Bucky,

It is great to have you come and be with us. You will fine a great number of dear friends to listen when you are in need of ears. Please, just let us know how we can help you out. You will find out we are supportive and relaxing place.

Please keep us up to date on your situation. Again welcome, looking forward to seeing you around. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Welcome to NT!

You've come to a wonderful place of support and understanding!
There are many caring people here, easy to talk to, and very down-to-earth, so make yourself right at home. Look through the different forums and post anywhere you feel inclined.

Just holler if you have any questions or need help in finding your way around.

It's great to have you!

Caring,
Rae

Hi Bucky ~ It says you have SEVERE neural foraminal narrowing at C5-6 affectiing the C6 nerve root. The foramen are holes that the nerves pass thru to get to the spinal cord. The hole at C5-6 is severely narrowed, thus keeping the nerves from passing thru.

I'm no doctor. This is something you'll have to either research or get another opinion about. Before you decide on anything GET AT LEAST 2-3 OTHER OPINIONS. Never take just one doctors opinion!!! After getting the other opinions, then make your decision. If 2 out of 3 think you should have surgery, then that's probably what you should do.

If they think you should do physical therapy, then that's what you should do. I would opt for the most CONSERVATIVE method I could!!! Surgery should be your last resort, after all other conservative methods have been exhausted. Surgery is only for mechanical problems. It won't fix your pain. You're going to still have pain after surgery.

Best of luck and God bless. Please keep us posted, ok? Hugs, Lee