Need Some Help?

[Apple0606]

This is my first time here with a question, even though I have been reading this forum for sometime. I was hoping someone could help me with the results of my CT scan. Let me start off by saying that 6 years ago I had a lumbar infusion at the L5-S1 site. Now I have been having problems with my neck for the last two years. I have pain, numbness and tingling in my neck, arm, shoulder, hand and across the upper portion of my back. Sometimes the pain shoots up into my skull. I had a CT scan done and the results were as follows. Spondylosis is present at the C-5-C-6 level. There is what appears to be moderate canal narrowing at this level and some bilateral neuroforaminal narrowing from uncovertebral osteophytes greater on the left. There is reversal of the normal cervical lordosis. I am waiting to have an EMG and Nerve Conduction test done in July. I was wondering if this is cause for another surgery? My Dr. wants to wait with my options until all the tests are done. I really don't want to have another. It took so long to heal and get back to a somewhat normal life.

Thank you for your time and for reading my post.

[Apple0606]

I would like to thank you both for your replies. I will have the Nerve Conduction and EMG on July 7th. When I get the results I will probably decide what to do next. I know one of them is going to be that I will have to leave my job. I have a really physical job and it is pure torchure everyday. I will weigh all my options. I would really like to avoid surgery seeing I have had 3 in the last 6 years. (Not all on my spine). But if that is what it comes down to I guess that is what I will have to do.

Thank you

[richmill1]

not all bone spurs are seen in the mri..if conservative treatment doesn't work you will need fusion surgery..not so bad..I was hitting olf balls 6 weeks post op..I'm 57
good luck

[kimpton]

hi.  i feel for you!  i struggled for years.  did you ever address your biomechanics & posture with rehab?  the lumbar really relates to the cervial spine.  when i was put in the proper position while standing i was relieved...and very surprised.  you might want to try this before surgery.  if there's not a really experienced biomechanics/kenesiologist in your area a senior pilates instructor might be able to help.  the school of thougth is the same.  some instructors have back problems and can really relate.  i had a lot of your symptoms (structural differences aside) & was able to get relief from something called myofascial release.  there might be a trained practitioner in your area....if not...one treatement and i felt sooo much better.  see http://www.myofascialrelease.com/home.asp.  i also addressed the inflamation with NSAID.  if you opt not to have the surgery what i mention above could certainly slow any kind of degenerative issues.  i hope you find your answers.  take care.  kimpton