Yes that's what I have. Is that as bad as it gets, or if it's impinged enough do people loose function of that extremity? Mine is my left arm that is getting the tingy/numbness and pain.

Yes, it can get worse if the foramen gets MORE narrow and the nerves get MORE impinged. Then you can end up with permanent nerve damage, which isn't good at all! So they're going to have to keep an eye on things so it doesn't get any narrower. Actually, they shouldn't let this go on too awfully long. Perhaps physical therapy could help. Talk to your doctor and see what he thinks. I'm just not sure.

From what i been told by my surgeon with nerve damage u have 18 months from the first onset of symptoms after that it will become permanet.

Haha, well then I'm screwed I've had pain for years. Thanks. I am set to have a Physical Therapy appointment on Monday. I am going to try to get my NS appointment set up as well ( waiting on the referral to go through insurance)

Well its not so much the pain --my reference is more from the numness in fingers

Hmmm --- I'm surprised it's THAT long. Wow, I'll make not of that.

Thanks Mg. I didn't know that. I appreciate the info. Thanks. Hugs, Lee

The Neurosurgeon's office has my MRI report and have reviewed it and as soon as they get the needed information/impression from the Dr then they'll cal me to set up the new patient appointment.

Anyone tell me what this appointment will consist of, so that I have an idea of what to expect?

Make sure neuro has all your scans or you will need to get them and bring them mri or cat scans etc...this is a good question--because i was in so much pain-- I could hardly focus at the time. Its pretty straight forward --ck your reflexes,stength, touch your nose etc...push and pull resistence of your arms. Most likely will inquire your pain level 1-10 scale. You should make a list of questions but make them ---short and concise --u never know how time you will get. If somehow they say surgery ask how many dr has done --your prognosis ---gets some stats if you do or dont need surgery best case scenario with conservative treament etc....bring pen and paper. Is may be good to bring someone with you to the apt. Good to have the extra ear and also the support!!

ps --list of all medications your on -- bring with you

The NS reviewed my MRI and is sending me to a Dr of Physical Medicine. They said they'll have this Dr treat me and if she feels I need to see a surgeon then they'll refer me back to the NS ... Got to love this world of flip flopping... but I think this is a much better choice than surgery.

That's good news ---usually most surgeons wont fo this surgery unless your spinal cord compressed. Due to risks--etc... Please keep me updated how thing go for you....always wishing you nothing but the best outcome!!