[treesgirl]

Hi,
I have been searching the internet for months trying to find information on how others have dealt with lumbar disc problems and i hope that i have come to the right place.
I am completely new to this "forum" thing and could use some assistance on where i should look for others like me... I would totally appreciate if you can send me in the right direction!

I was involved in a head on MVA almost two years ago, tried 4 rounds of PT, a Mackenzie specialist, a chiro/spinal manipulation, orthopaedic dr's, tried steriod injections, oral steriods, traction, TENS, hot and cold packs, bed rest, every pain medication possible, muscle relaxers, etc...

briefly:
MRI's from 2006 and 2007- L4-5 disc fragment of 11mm x 30mm extruded into spinal canal w/spinal canal reduction of 50% normal AP dimensions, severe loss of disc space height... (L4-5 disc is down over the body of the L-5 vertebrae) and at L5 -S1 small disc herniation
EMG 2007 - positive for radiculopathy, nerve damage...

I am hesitant of surgery, and believe in natural healing, and refuse to take pain medications (tried them and they made me sick and didn't really help anyway, just made me want to sleep)

So i am hoping someone can head me in hte right direction as to a Forum that i could find others who have similar injuries as i would like to learn more about how others have dealt with their pain and choices whether or not to have surgery.

I am 34 years young and a self employed photographer...

Thanks,
and I am glad to have found this place!
Thanks,
Treesgirl.
(Theresa)