Chronic Pain Support Group

Physicians and professionalsdefine pain as chronic if it lasts longer than three to six months and is persistent. It's distinct from acute pain that is a direct result of injury or trauma. This support group is dedicated to those suffering from chronic pain. Discuss treatments that have worked for you, find advice for your specific experience, and find support. You're not...

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Update with surgeon

jasmine0523
jasmine0523
I do need surgery at the C7-T1 level. It is slipped and it is bone on bone. When he does this surgery, because of the location, he is going to have to cut through the front and the back. I didn't expect that. Cutting one side hurts, but I can't imagine what both feel like.

C2-C3 is another issue. At this point the Cat Scan showed that the disc was herniated as well as a large bone spur decreasing the space for the nerves to go through causing the neck pain in that area. The doctor thinks that the disc is not really herniated and the bone spur is causing all the problems. He is sending me for an MRI so that he can get a clearer look. He did say however, that if that disc is herniated it is a more involved surgery and that I would need to wear a halo attached to my head. I am praying that is not the case.

I know that I should be used to this but I don't think you can get used to having someone cutting near your spine.

I think I need some time to process this.
RJRelaxing
RJRelaxing
I have to agree. Back surgery is a very scary thought to me. I know that a large part of our group have had back and neck surgery. They are really brave.

I would take as much time as you need. Get a second opinion if you feel it is needed.

Will be praying for you and sending lots of positive energy. Stay strong.
Hugs-RJ
BuffyS
BuffyS
I can understand your trepidation getting such delicate surgery. I agree with RJ, get a second opinion if you're not comfortable. Best of luck.
AngelnPain
AngelnPain
Jasmine i hate to hear that you will have to have surgery. I have been there with my neck. Is he a neurosurgeon? They are the best at this. It sounds like he is doing extra tests to make sure before he goea in which is good. If this dr is a good one then i would put my trust in him. Bone spurs arw nothing to mess with expecially in that area. But it is up to you on a second opinion. I will be praying for you. Keep us updated.
NessaLeigh
NessaLeigh
Jasmine I hope that your MRI shows that you don't have any herniations and you get answers that you need.

You are wise to take a little time to think about the situation.
billwfriend
billwfriend
I would be scared senseless....you have my prayers....hugs bill
Aronia
Aronia
Wow.. You poor girl, Jasmine!!
Idk if this is helps, but 1 level Fusion is always easier than 2 or more.
Also, please still get a second opinion.
Love you.
jasmine0523
jasmine0523
Thanks for your support. The surgeon I saw yesterday I trust completely. He operated on me twice before. The lower level has been a problem since 2004 and he told me a while ago that this fusion was going to happen eventually because of all the levels above that were fused. As far as C2-3 he is waiting for a clearer picture of that level. He is hoping that level is not in fact herniated. I won't know until the MRI results until at least 3/27. In the meantime I will sit and worry.
BuffyS
BuffyS
I can understand you will sit and worry. Try to distract yourself as best you can. Read a great book, watch some movies, do jigsaw puzzles. Anything to take your mind off of this for a while.
jancam
jancam
I can't imagine getting used to this.

I'm sure we'll all be hoping with you that the upper area isn't herniated.
Hugs
jc
LynnJ55
LynnJ55
Sending good thoughts your way, jasmine. That's a lot to process but it sounds like you are in good surgical hands. I hope you can get all the tests you need so there is a definite diagnosis.

((((Hugs))))

Lynn
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