Six months was still a bit testy for me. I hope the injection works. I did as much PT as my insurance would let me. If you can do it again that may help. How long did you do the PT for? How far into recovery did you start? I was at 4 weeks, and scared. I sure hope you don't have to do anymore surgery. Do all the other protocals first and try everything that your neurosurgeon gives in tips. Seeking another opinion never hurts. Just keep that journal to bring with you, that really helps them to understand when and where your pain is. Have you tried to sleep on a wedge? ginnie (gel wedge, gel pillow are what I used and still do)

I hope the injections work too. The pain clinic I go to usually takes quite awhile to get into and I was lucky enough that someone cancelled their appointment right before I called and I can get in next week. I am hoping to get the injections very soon after the intial appt with the pain doc. I start back working full time at school in two weeks. I am a bit worried how I will cope and my back will do working again. I haven't worked since two days before my surgery in February. EEK!!!

Have you had the ESI's? I am scared to death to have them done but they aer a much better alternative than having to have surgery again.

I sleep with a pillow under my legs at night. Where did you find a gel wedge? I am what my hubby calls a rotisserrie at night so I need a smaller wedge since I roll around so much

The wedge was through a medical supply magazine. Called "Easy Comforts"
1-800-308-1384, or 250 City Center, Oshkosh, Wi. 54906. All shapes and sizes, it is worth a try. I had infusions before my last surgery. They did help, and lasted a few months. However the problem was there and didn't go away. Fused C3-7 now, and doing OK after that second one. Hope you do not need to have more. School will be kind of tough, wear good orthodics, gel inserts, and maybe even in class a gel seat, to take the stress points off your back. I did not get the kind of injection you are getting. From what I understand, they can help. The two infusions I got didn't hurt at all, and I sure hope that happens that way for you. Numbed me first and used a floroscope for imaging. Doc. was good. Glad you are getting into the doctor next week. I know it can't come soon enough for you. Maybe you could go even earlier, by putting your name down in case they have another cancelation. I hope your doctor is gentle and that you get the relief you need. All my best. ginnie

I will definitely look that up and order one. Laying in bed and sitting is just plain awful right now. I am so tired of not being able to sleep.

I did buy Skechers dress/work shoes. They are pretty darn comfortable and much better than the other shoes I have. I have not been out of sneakers since my surgery so I have been wearing the dress shoes around the house alot to make sure they will work for a full day of work. I am excited and yet VERY nervous to go back to work because of my back.

I hope you can work candle girl, and that the pain is tolerable when you do. It is awful to loose your job or business. I am working on a bucket list right now, and doing those things that I can do, while I am able in limited ways. I miss working more than I ever thought possible. Take care and let me know how your injection goes. I hope it brings relief. Ginnie