No Melody, what I meant and I am certain Glenn did too was an Orthopedic SPINAL Surgeon. For instance, I have two regular Ortho docs; one for upper extremity issues and another that works strictly on the hips and knees. Darn these docs and their specialties lol, but that is how it is. Anyway, my spine surgeon is a Neurosurgeon because of my neck. If I ever have to have a lumbar fusion (spine pain doc is trying to keep me from that right now) I would definitely seek out the Ortho Spine Surgeon that is in the same group or even my same Neurosurgeon because they both really cover it all. Just ask the Neurologist for a referral to a SPINE surgeon. The reality is this...they are better trained in spinal nerves, etc. Or, you could also ask for a referral to a SPINAL Pain Management doctor and see what he/she might have to say. But based on what Glenn said, I think I would I shoot straight for a surgeon. If they find that surgery isn't warranted or have other ideas; they will tell you and Alan. Oh, and yes, see if you can't get all the MRI's...that would really help.

About two years ago (give or take), Alan's neurologist referred him to one of the neurosurgeons at her hospital (not sure if he's a spinal neuro but he's the head of neurosurgery. I went with him to the appointment. He looked at the MRI, and he shook his head and said "nothing I can do, I'm sorry".

I'll never forget this. As a matter of fact, Alan went there two times. Once a few years before that visit, and again, a few years later. Two separate MRI's and the same opinion.

Now he recently had the latest one, and the reason his neuro sent him for yet again another MRI, is that Alan is complaining about his back and if he lays in a certain position, his neuropathy worsens, and if he lays in another position, or sits in a certain position, his neuropathy gets better, so she said "I really do think it's your back".

At the next appointment I'll ask if she can refer us to a spinal neurosurgeon.


Melody

Hope you get some answers and understanding from the doctor...

Well, she's the one who ordered the MRI and now she thinks his PN is related to his back. So she HAS to refer him to yet another spinal surgeon.

We found one who takes his insurance and we don't need a referal. We have all the films. I have no idea why Alan is not calling up anyone and making an appointment. But I think I know why.

Alan does not like to go behind doctor's back. No matter who the doctor is.

I really think he wants to wait until he has the appointment with his neurologist, goes over the lates MRI results with her and then tell her "We found this spinal surgeon out of Beth Israel, what do you think?"

I know Alan, this is how he thinks.

Me?? I would have made the appointment, the day I got the results of the MRI.

But this is HIS back, and not MY back.

We each have to be responsible for what WE do.

I really believe this.

Take care, and thanks much.

Melody

Just hug him...