hello,
I have been told I need three fusions by two. I have DDD and bulging disks and osteophytes and a bit of central compression. I am at a loss as to who to trust since each time I go for a consultation, doctors tell me different things- through the back, through the front, no fusions but laminoplasty and drilling the osteophytes, to two fusions to three fusions from the front. If anyone has had multiple fusions and actually feels good now, could you share your doctor. I am looking in NYC or Boston. I also have osteopenia in my spine
which does not help. I have pinched nerves down both arms, burning and weakness in my hands and feet. I just want to be able to do the things I used to do (bend without pain in my upper back, lift without feeling so weak, and walk without tingling legs and feet.) I am 63.

thank you in advance for some names to consider

On the types of surgery , I think many have their own preferred ways..
That is probably why a difference there.

Do you have a copy of the written MRI report?
So members can read the descriptions used?
often mild , moderate , severe helps..
Some will even have measurements listed in the report.

It is good to request a copy , just so you have it for your own records and knowledge.

Use the search tool to look for past posts on fusions etc..
http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/search.php

Hi, I've lived with a declining back compressed back for about 60 yrs. Have two MRI's that read like GOOD GRIEF what does all that mean. All the words you mention. I won't do any back surgery, hip replacement in 2010 was too too much of a negative outcome. I'm 77 and use lots of supps, back, knee and ankle supports and live with memories of my active life.

I have a friend who is now in a nursing home and I can remember her words after so many surgeries, from the back, thru the front...knee replacements, hip replacements...you name it she did them....she said how much she regretted so many of them.

These are real gambles, huge changes and we never know if we'll be worse off after.

I talked my 70 yr old brother out of lam/fusion last yr that a doctor said he "needed"....he's been a golfer all life and golfers backs are pretty messed up. He's in pain, I don't know many who are not, but he's making things work with PT and stretches and all he can do.

PRP and Stem Cells are huge here in Calif and I'm sure also in NY area and East Coast cities... These injections can work to regenerate tissues and build up joints.

Prolozone is another set of injections which are oxygen/ozone and help restore tissue/joints. Good wishes whatever you decide.

Hi Rbbie,

I cannot offer you names or advice, but I can sympathise. It sounds as though we have the same level of degeneration, I have 3 Spinal Cord Compressions and C6 Nerve Root Compressions causing excruciating referred pain in arms and numbness in forearms, hands and first 2 fingers/thumb, especially right side.

I also have lower spine problems and have extreme weakness in my left side/legs.

I have just today been informed that my Neurologist has referred me to a Neurosurgeon - a pointless exercise as my heart will not tolerate anaesthetics. Still, I have to go to the appt to be given the options.

Do Post your MRI Results as Jo*mar suggests, it gives fellow Members an insight into the depths of your issues.

Dave.

Hi rbbie,

It would also help to know the duration you have been experiencing your symptoms, what things you have tried, procedures you have had done, etc.

Back surgery is a serious matter and I hope that you will have the proper and full information detailed and in front of you when you make a decision. Make sure that you are given ALL the options, not just the surgical ones.

DDD is very common in people in your age group and is also found in many people younger as well. A detailed report of your spinal issues and locations would be beneficial for providing a better response to your post.

From your overview, I am guessing that some of the issues might be dealt with in a non-surgical manner. Personally, I am one to consider surgery as a last resort.

Hope you find relief from your pain and limitations.