Guest guest Posted November 5, 2000 Report Share Posted November 5, 2000 Dear :<br><br>Sorry to hear the " nothing to do about it " message re: the right knee. I know how bummed I was when I realized my knee would probably never be quite right, and I still have some fluffy crabmeat left (on the left, of course)! Coming to grips with the fact that you might not be able to do things you really like to is difficult, and dealing with chronic pain on top of it is doubly hard. I don't think most people (to include some " professionals " ) understand the pain that goes along with chondromalacia--especially PT's who call it a " garbage diagnosis " (that particular PT is lucky she still is breathing).<br><br>A physician at our facility had degenerative changes to her patella that were so bad that she had the patella removed (a patellectomy?), and she still gets around. (Her other knee, the one with a patella, is actually worse!) I don't know if that's an option. Oddly enough, this doc was insensitive enough to blow me some flack about using a wheelchair (per doctor's orders) at work--and it turns out her doc and my doc are one in the same!! So, if anyone seems insensitive to your plight, you can borrow my shoulder, as I certainly could appreciate any frustration and anger you would be feeling.<br><br>How was the cartilage on the left side? Has your doc suggested glucosamine and chondroitin for it? I know it probably sounds like a witch's brew sort of treatment, but, according to some research, it might help. It takes about two months of regular use (about 1500 mg glucosamine, and about 1200 mg of chondroitin per day) before any result would be apparent. I suspect that the efficacy of this treatment would depend on the amount of cartilage left to work with--good results would probably be most likely if there's at least some cartilage left all over the patellar surface. I'm giving it a shot because, the best I can deduce, at least I have the fluffy stuff remaining everywhere. I know that chondroitin isn't absorbed well by the body, but it may not take much of it (like a " pinch " of salt in a recipe) to get the job done.<br><br>Feel free to borrow my shoulder to lean on anytime. Remember that there's plenty of us out here with you waiting for that " breakthrough " treatment or procedure.<br><br>Best wishes,<br><br>Joe B. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted February 27, 2005 Report Share Posted February 27, 2005 Hello Maureen: Good for you! I will see my surgeon on Tuesday and I certainly hope that my surgery is scheduled soon .......... I am SSOOOOOOO ready to begin appreciating sitting at a table without overwhelming fear. Don't chicken out ... your opportunity is coming soon. You will be in our thoughts and prayers. Kathie. > > Hi everyone, Busy with out-of-town company, but wanted to let you > know that I finally scheduled surgery (myotomy w/partial wrap)for > March 21. I'm pretty nervous about it, but hoping I'll at least quit > coughing so much & will be able to eat a larger variety of food. Dr. > C. Dennis @ Emory Hosp. in Atlanta, GA is doing the procedure. > He said he's been doing them for 10yrs, so he should know what he's > doing. I just hope I don't chicken out & run out the back door of > the hosp. ha ha Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted February 27, 2005 Report Share Posted February 27, 2005 Hi, good to hear you have your surgery scheduled and counting down. You will be the 2nd person on this board to use Dr. at Emory for your surgery. I would be most interested to learn all I can about Dr. , so as you get more info please post it or send it directly to my email address. Good luck and best wishes. Maggie Alabama Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 14, 2006 Report Share Posted October 14, 2006 SandiI I am told by my neuroligist that surgery is essential Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 14, 2006 Report Share Posted October 14, 2006 , have you tried any alternative treatments, such as ESI? I also have severe canal spinal stenosis. I've had good response from ESI's (epidural spinal injection). I hate putting all that cortisone in my body, but it has helped dramatically. I've heard that the surgery only lasts for about 5 years, so I'm opting to put off surgery until there are no other alternatives. I also work with a physical therapist. Sandi -----Original Message-----From: Spinal Stenosis Treatment [mailto:Spinal Stenosis Treatment ] On Behalf Of tygoch@...Sent: Friday, October 06, 2006 2:43 PMSpinal Stenosis Treatment Subject: Re SurgeryI am in the UK I have been diagnosed wit severe canal spinal stenosis . I am awaiting further consultation but at this stage it is probable that I will requie surgery. I woyld like to here from anyone who has exoerince of the after effects of such surgery. Anyone who can enlighten me , good bad or indifferant please conatct me either by the post or email direcet H Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 14, 2006 Report Share Posted October 14, 2006 Hi , I hope I can be of some comfort to you as I had surgery for spinal stenosis in June. My surgery only involved one vertebrae though. From what my surgeon said, as well as several others I got other opinions from before I had the surgery, the degree of stenosis can be opinion related. In otherwords, one doctors opinion that it is severe is anothers moderate etc. How many vertebrae are involved and what have you been told will be the procedure done. All of that info does make a difference in how long your recoup and rehab will be. In my case the surgery was done as day surgery and usually requires an overnight stay. My spinal surgeon is a sports medicine doc who specializes in spinal surgery. I highly recommend using that type of doctor for your surgery. they do far less cutting in size of incision than a regular spinal surgeon. The larger the incision, the more damage is done to the muscles that are cut, hence more recovery, more scar tissue to deal with and some permenent loss of muscle use. My doc used a new type of procedure that required only taking part of one side of the L4-L5 vertebrae and just a small scrape on the other side. With this I have had no loss of ability to bend over. He only used a 1 inch incision that required only 1 stitch. I was so disabled in walking and standing up straight that most people thought I had had a stroke. Instead of staying overnight after the surgery, which was at 8:30 in the morning, I was discharged to go home at 6:30 that same evening. I left the hospital with all of the pain, tingling and numbness in my right leg gone, and in comparison, the pain from surgery was a piece of cake. I wasn't allowed to bend, stoop, twist or turn for 3 weeks. stitch removed in 3 weeks as well. I was very stiff and weak in my entire right side from my buttocks down to my feet at the 3 week point, but was able to walk and get around. I began 6 weeks of twice a week physical therapy that included ultrasound and deep therapy message along with exercises. I worked hard and did the exercises at home as well and was pretty much back on my feet within 10 weeks. I did have a few surprising complications that are not uncommon after spinal surgery. I developed floaters in my right eye, that became extreme and limited some of the exercises that I could do to regain strenght, as there was an extremely high risk of tearing or detaching the retina in my right eye. the eye doc said this happens about 50% of the time because of the position you are put in for the spinal surgery and the length of time. It can put extreme pressure on the retina. the eye has since much improved and am doing more and more of the exercises. The other problem is arch in both feet. What happened is that I was walking wrong for so long because of the stenosis that the arches and muscles in both of my feet flattened and now cause a problem. So now I have to wear custom orthotics in my shoes and do physical therapy to strengthen them and the muscles in my feet and ankles. These are common problems to deal with after spinal surgery and nothing to worry about. Minor stuff considering the horrible pain of the stenosis. That being said, 4 months after spinal surgery for stenosis, I can say that I have 85% of my life back, including gardening, walking, on my feet for most of the day doing craft shows every 2 weeks for the past 6 weeks, and most of all am pain free from the stenosis. I tried 3 times with the spinal epideral injections with no help and my stenosis worsened considerably from February when it was diagnosed and the following June when I had the surgery. Remember with the injections, it is just a temporary fix to relieve the pain and the stenosis does get worse. There will come a time when the injections no longer work and you will require the surgery. The longer you wait, the older you get, the worse the stenosis gets. The older you get the harder it is to have the surgery, recover from it and get on with your life. Also the older you get the more risk for other medical problems to develop and some of them can interfere with having the surgery and the potential to have to suffer with the pain of spinal stenosis. In hind sight, I wish I had just had the surgery right away instead of trying the conservative root and suffering for months and ending up with the surgery anyways. On other thing I would suggest is to have your doctor make sure that there is no vascular problems causing any of the pain that you are having. Sometimes vascular problems in your legs can cause some of the pain that you are feeling and it can be hard to differentiate between the 2 if both are involved. My doc had me have vascular studies done, both at rest and after activity just to be sure. I didn't have any vascular problems added to the stenosis, but if I had, then that would have had to be taken care of before the spinal surgery. Also get several opinions about the surgery before you make any decisions on having it done. Be sure you feel confident with the doc, even if it isn't the first doc you use. Good luck and keep us posted on how things are going and what you do. Frantygoch@... wrote: I am in the UK I have been diagnosed wit severe canal spinal stenosis . I am awaiting further consultation but at this stage it is probable that I will requie surgery. I woyld like to here from anyone who has exoerince of the after effects of such surgery. Anyone who can enlighten me , good bad or indifferant please conatct me either by the post or email direcet H Messenger with Voice. Make PC-to-Phone Calls to the US (and 30+ countries) for 2¢/min or less. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 15, 2006 Report Share Posted October 15, 2006 What sort of surgeon specializes in this sort of surgery? A neurologist? An orthopedic surgeon? Linni --- Fran Barron <sunhineagain@...> wrote: > Hi , > I hope I can be of some comfort to you as I had > surgery for spinal stenosis in June. > My surgery only involved one vertebrae though. > From what my surgeon said, as well as several > others I got other opinions from before I had the > surgery, the degree of stenosis can be opinion > related. In otherwords, one doctors opinion that it > is severe is anothers moderate etc. __________________________________________________ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 15, 2006 Report Share Posted October 15, 2006 Sorry to hear that, . Thanks to Fran, you have some very detailed information on what to expect, how to approach surgery, etc. I have another questions. My primary care doctor, an internist that is great with other health issue I have, does not appear to be very knowledgeable about my spinal stenosis and arthritis issues. Do most of you have one doctor that kind of oversees and gives you direction about your back/spine issues? I feel very left on my own to make all decisions. Trying chiropractic care was my idea, which didn't help. Went to a pain management group when I was unable to stop crying one morning the pain was so bad that I missed an entire week of work (very unlike me). Have been to see a neurosurgeon, who didn't want to do surgery until the ESI's don't work any more. I'm on my 4th ESI, but sure hate putting all the cortisone in my body. The ESI's have helped dramaticlly, but I"m sure the day will come when they lose their effectiveness. My concern with surgery is that for spinal stenosis, it is only effective for a few years, as the growths come back. I like Fran's opinion about seeing a sports medicine neurosurgeon and will probably do that. My husband had surgery for a disk issue and spinal stenosis about 10 years ago. It worked wonders, but only last about 5 years. He had surgery again not too long ago, but it did not help much. He's been told any additional spine surgery won't be of much benefit. He is now 75 (I'm 69). I'd like to avoid going down that same path, as his life is pretty limited. Sandi -----Original Message-----From: Spinal Stenosis Treatment [mailto:Spinal Stenosis Treatment ] On Behalf Of tygoch@...Sent: Saturday, October 14, 2006 2:36 PMSpinal Stenosis Treatment Subject: Re: Re SurgerySandiI I am told by my neuroligist that surgery is essential Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 15, 2006 Report Share Posted October 15, 2006 Thanks so much for taking the time to include all the details. I would appreciate knowing how old you are. Thanks, Sandi-----Original Message-----From: Spinal Stenosis Treatment [mailto:Spinal Stenosis Treatment ] On Behalf Of Fran BarronSent: Saturday, October 14, 2006 9:33 PMSpinal Stenosis Treatment Subject: Re: Re SurgeryHi ,I hope I can be of some comfort to you as I had surgery for spinal stenosis in June.My surgery only involved one vertebrae though. From what my surgeon said, as well as several others I got other opinions from before I had the surgery, the degree of stenosis can be opinion related. In otherwords, one doctors opinion that it is severe is anothers moderate etc.How many vertebrae are involved and what have you been told will be the procedure done. All of that info does make a difference in how long your recoup and rehab will be.In my case the surgery was done as day surgery and usually requires an overnight stay. My spinal surgeon is a sports medicine doc who specializes in spinal surgery. I highly recommend using that type of doctor for your surgery. they do far less cutting in size of incision than a regular spinal surgeon. The larger the in! cision, the more damage is done to the muscles that are cut, hence more recovery, more scar tissue to deal with and some permenent loss of muscle use.My doc used a new type of procedure that required only taking part of one side of the L4-L5 vertebrae and just a small scrape on the other side. With this I have had no loss of ability to bend over. He only used a 1 inch incision that required only 1 stitch.I was so disabled in walking and standing up straight that most people thought I had had a stroke.Instead of staying overnight after the surgery, which was at 8:30 in the morning, I was discharged to go home at 6:30 that same evening. I left the hospital with all of the pain, tingling and numbness in my right leg gone, and in comparison, the pain from surgery was a piece of cake.I wasn't allowed to bend, stoop, twist or turn for 3 weeks. stitch removed in 3 weeks as well. I was very stiff and weak in my entire right side from my buttocks down to my feet at the 3 week point, but was able to walk and get around.I began 6 weeks of twice a week physical therapy that included ultrasound and deep therapy message along with exercises. I worked hard and did the exercises at home as well and was pretty much back on my feet within 10 weeks.I did have a few surprising complications that are not uncommon after spinal surgery. I developed floaters in my right eye, that became extreme and limited some of the exercises that I could do to regain strenght, as there was an extremely high risk of tearing or detaching the retina in my right eye. the eye doc said this happens about 50% of the time because of the position you are put in for the spinal surgery and the length of time. It can put extreme pressure on the retina. the eye has since much improved and am doing more and more of the exercises.The other problem is arch in both feet. What happened is that I was walking wrong for so long because of the stenosis that the arches and muscles in both of my feet flattened and now cause a problem. So now I have to wear custom orthotics in my shoes and do physical therapy to strengthen them and the muscles in my feet and ankles.These are common problems to deal with after spinal surgery and nothing to worry about. Minor stuff considering the horrible pain of the stenosis. That being said, 4 months after spinal surgery for stenosis, I can say that I have 85% of my life back, including gardening, walking, on my feet for most of the day doing craft shows every 2 weeks for the past 6 weeks, and most of all am pain free from the stenosis. I tried 3 times with the spinal epideral injections with no help and my stenosis worsened considerably from February when it was diagnosed and the following June when I had the surgery. Remember with the injections, it is just a temporary fix to relieve the pain and the stenosis does get worse. There will come a time when the injections no longer work and you will require the surgery. The longer you wait, the older you get, the worse the stenosis gets. The older you get the harder it is to have the surgery, recover from it and get on with your life. Also the older you get the more risk for other medical problems to develop and some of them can interfere with having the surgery and the potential to have to suffer with the pain of spinal stenosis. In hind sight, I wish I had just had the surgery right away instead of trying the conservative root and suffering for months and ending up with the surgery anyways. On other thing I would suggest is to have your doctor make sure that there is no vascular problems causing any of the pain that you are having. Sometimes vascular problems in your legs can cause some of the pain that you are feeling and it can be hard to differentiate between the 2 if both are involved. My doc had me have vascular studies done, both at rest and after activity just to be sure. I didn't have any vascular problems added to the stenosis, but if I had, then that would have had to be taken care of before the spinal surgery. Also get several opinions about the surgery before you make any decisions on having it done. Be sure you feel confident with the doc, even if it isn't the first doc you use. Good luck and keep us posted on how things are going and what you do. Frantygoch@... wrote:I am in the UK I have been diagnosed wit severe canal spinal stenosis . I am awaiting further consultation but at this stage it is probable that I will requie surgery. I woyld like to here from anyone who has exoerince of the after effects of such surgery. Anyone who can enlighten me , good bad or indifferant please conatct me either by the post or email direcet H Messenger with Voice. Make PC-to-Phone Calls to the US (and 30+ countries) for 2¢/min or less. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 15, 2006 Report Share Posted October 15, 2006 I have a primary care doc and I also see a doctor in my ortho group who specializes in back and pain problems. You probably should see someone who specializes in pain management. I was diagnosed with spinal stenosis this year. Vivian If it is to be, it is up to me RE: Re Surgery Sorry to hear that, . Thanks to Fran, you have some very detailed information on what to expect, how to approach surgery, etc. I have another questions. My primary care doctor, an internist that is great with other health issue I have, does not appear to be very knowledgeable about my spinal stenosis and arthritis issues. Do most of you have one doctor that kind of oversees and gives you direction about your back/spine issues? I feel very left on my own to make all decisions. Trying chiropractic care was my idea, which didn't help. Went to a pain management group when I was unable to stop crying one morning the pain was so bad that I missed an entire week of work (very unlike me). Have been to see a neurosurgeon, who didn't want to do surgery until the ESI's don't work any more. I'm on my 4th ESI, but sure hate putting all the cortisone in my body. The ESI's have helped dramaticlly, but I"m sure the day will come when they lose their effectiveness. My concern with surgery is that for spinal stenosis, it is only effective for a few years, as the growths come back. I like Fran's opinion about seeing a sports medicine neurosurgeon and will probably do that. My husband had surgery for a disk issue and spinal stenosis about 10 years ago. It worked wonders, but only last about 5 years. He had surgery again not too long ago, but it did not help much. He's been told any additional spine surgery won't be of much benefit. He is now 75 (I'm 69). I'd like to avoid going down that same path, as his life is pretty limited. Sandi -----Original Message-----From: Spinal Stenosis Treatment [mailto:Spinal Stenosis Treatment ] On Behalf Of tygoch@...Sent: Saturday, October 14, 2006 2:36 PMSpinal Stenosis Treatment Subject: Re: Re Surgery SandiI I am told by my neuroligist that surgery is essential Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 15, 2006 Report Share Posted October 15, 2006 In a message dated 15/10/2006 03:34:34 GMT Daylight Time, sunhineagain@... writes: orthotics in my shoes and do physical therapy to strengthen them and the muscles in my feet and ankles. Thank you very much for all of your information and help it is very usefull to me Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 15, 2006 Report Share Posted October 15, 2006 Hi Sandi, I'm 55. turned 55 a month after all this started with my back and had the surgery this past June. For sure you need a spinal specialist. To quote my own internist "what are you asking me for? I'm just a lowly internist. I know the basic stuff and a little bit of this and that. Get yourself to the spine doc ASAP and get this taken care of. Keep me posted on what is going on and have him/her send me all the info and stuff. You go to the basic doc for the basic everyday stuff, not for the special stuff. Now I do suggest a sports medicine spinal doc, cause they know how to protect you from more muscle injury than regular spinal docs. Now get moving.". This internist has been my doc for over 25 years, is around my age and wouldn't trade him for the world. From my own experience, I did start with a sports medicine doc and a pain doc that was part of his extensive sports medicine practice. They have a specialist for every type of of orthopedic problem that exists. Before I had the surgery, I got 8 different opinions from both neurosurgeons, orthopedic spine specialists and other sports medicine spine doctors. All of them where from the best hospitals in Boston MA and surrounding areas in MA. Including New England Baptist, Mass General, Brigham and Women's, Beth Israel, Lahey Clinic, U Mass Medical Center, and several private more local to my home doctors. All where eager to do surgery on my spine. All but the sports medicine docs wanted to do at least a 3 inch incision or larger. That way if it was needed, it would be already done. The orthopedic docs where far better in explaining things and relating to patients, family and anyone else that came with the patient. I found the neurosurgeons far more eager to cut with large incisions, more aggresive in their approach and in keeping patients in the hospital longer than necessary and waiting far longer to start physical therapy than the orthopedic docs. they lack communication skills and where not eager or pleased to have someone other than the patient in the room. With one of them, I actually gave the neurosurgeon a choice; me, my hubby and my best friend in the room together or I leave. he refused and I never saw the doc and he had the nerve to send me a bill for examinaion. Which I refused to pay, told the office why and they could sue me for the money. that was in May and haven't heard from them since. Neurosurgeons are not known for their people skills, but I didn't feel confident with any of them or their approach. All 3 sports medicine orthopedic spinal surgeons I saw, including the doc that I used, all had the same approach. Make the incission the minimal size needed to do the surgery and enlarge if only needed and only 1/4 inch at a time. Philosophy is, the less cutting, the less damage and injury. I also found that orthopedic spine surgeons where more up to date with procedures on spinal surgery than neurosurgeons, even in the best hospitals in MA and that sports medicine docs where the most up to date. Be sure you have all kinds of questions to ask and a list of everything possible to ask. Things like: How long the docs been in practice. How many of the surgeries that is said you need, has he done. What is the sucess rate and his. Be sure that he is liscenced in your state and with all the spinal boards. As about his continued education type of anesthesia Length of surgery and stay in hospital What kind of help will you need when you come home. (My hubby took 2 weeks off from work to help me out because I did need basic help. simple things like, going to the bathroom and getting around. Not to be gross or anything, but you will have trouble pulling down pants to go to the bathroom for a week or 2, especially if you are very short like I am. My arms weren't long enough to pull them down to go and you can't bend, stoop, turn etc for at least 2-3 weeks. Also I have problems metabolizing pain meds and need help getting around when taking them. Also needed help getting off the toilet.) What kind of restrictions you'll have after surgery. Anything you can think of to ask, ask. If the doc doesn't like answering the questions, no matter how many you have, then you don't want to use the doc. I had my original doc do my surgery and he sat with my hubby, myself, my best friend and my daughter and answered every single question all of us had. We all had different ones to ask, plenty that the others hadn't thought of. In total it was exactly 100 questions and he didn't flinch at any of them, even if he had to repeat the answers more than once. When we were through, he laughed and said "now you are sure there are no more now? don't forget to call if you have any more.". We did have more and called and he called back with the answers. I chose the doc I did for the following reasons. All 4 of us felt comfortable, confident and secure with his manner, personality and knowledge. He was well experienced, 25 years. Well trained, teaches at Harvard medical school, very relaxed person, really cared, and said "he really enjoyed doing surgery for spinal stenosis and disc problems because when he is done and the patient has recovered, he has the pleasure of seeing his patients return to living instead of horrible pain and disabilities. They have a life to live and enjoy". My daughter heard those words and said "what the hell are we waiting for, time to get this done and live again, and this is the doc to use.". She was so right and I had the surgery 3 days later. Sandi, get yourself busy getting a sports medicine spinal orthopedic specialist and let him evaluate you and follow his advise. If you don't like the guy find another and if he says surgery, get lots of opinions and then make your decision. If you have any questions on what he says ask him for more detail and info and I'll be glad to help, if I can. Oh yes, stay away from those places that pop up when you google for info on what is wrong. The ones that have all these testimonials, especially the place in Florida. Reall dangerous places. If you have to advertise and list all these wonderful things that people say about you, you know there is a question about how ethical and real they are. the place in florida, can't remember their name off hand, is always in trouble with the state and my doc has had to undo some of the damage they have caused. People have come in from all over the country to use my doc. so if you want a name or live near MA send me an e-mail directly and I can pass it along. Fran Sandi Bradshaw <sandib@...> wrote: Sorry to hear that, . Thanks to Fran, you have some very detailed information on what to expect, how to approach surgery, etc. I have another questions. My primary care doctor, an internist that is great with other health issue I have, does not appear to be very knowledgeable about my spinal stenosis and arthritis issues. Do most of you have one doctor that kind of oversees and gives you direction about your back/spine issues? I feel very left on my own to make all decisions. Trying chiropractic care was my idea, which didn't help. Went to a pain management group when I was unable to stop crying one morning the pain was so bad that I missed an entire week of work (very unlike me). Have been to see a neurosurgeon, who didn't want to do surgery until the ESI's don't work any more. I'm on my 4th ESI, but sure hate putting all the cortisone in my body. The ESI's have helped dramaticlly, but I"m sure the day will come when they lose their effectiveness. My concern with surgery is that for spinal stenosis, it is only effective for a few years, as the growths come back. I like Fran's opinion about seeing a sports medicine neurosurgeon and will probably do that. My husband had surgery for a disk issue and spinal stenosis about 10 years ago. It worked wonders, but only last about 5 years. He had surgery again not too long ago, but it did not help much. He's been told any additional spine surgery won't be of much benefit. He is now 75 (I'm 69). I'd like to avoid going down that same path, as his life is pretty limited. Sandi -----Original Message-----From: Spinal Stenosis Treatment [mailto:Spinal Stenosis Treatment ] On Behalf Of tygoch@...Sent: Saturday, October 14, 2006 2:36 PMSpinal Stenosis Treatment Subject: Re: Re Surgery SandiI I am told by my neuroligist that surgery is essential Stay in the know. Pulse on the new .com. Check it out. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted October 16, 2006 Report Share Posted October 16, 2006 Thanks for all the input, Fran. I would never use anything advertised on the internet. I agree if they have to advertise they aren't even ethical in the first place and I wouldn't believe a word they say. The neurosurgeon I went to is very well respected here, but you are right he had zero bedside manner. He had seen me in terrible pain, but when he saw that I was much better after the ESI, he didn't want to do any surgery until ESI's don't work any more. I appreciate his cautiousness, but it is difficult living from one ESI to the next and feeling like I never really have my life back, as I never know when I might do something that will bring back the pain immediately. Interesting that the orthpedic spine doctors are more up to date than the neurosurgeons. I just had another ESI last Friday and should be in better shape by the end of this week. It is hard to think about going to spine doctors and thinking about surgery when you're not in pain. But then it is hard to get to the doctors and think straight when you are in pain. Catch 22. Thanks again for all your help. I will definitely use your ideas.Sandi. -----Original Message-----From: Spinal Stenosis Treatment [mailto:Spinal Stenosis Treatment ] On Behalf Of Fran BarronSent: Monday, October 16, 2006 12:51 AMSpinal Stenosis Treatment Subject: RE: Re SurgeryHi Sandi,I'm 55. turned 55 a month after all this started with my back and had the surgery this past June. For sure you need a spinal specialist. To quote my own internist "what are you asking me for? I'm just a lowly internist. I know the basic stuff and a little bit of this and that. Get yourself to the spine doc ASAP and get this taken care of. Keep me posted on what is going on and have him/her send me all the info and stuff. You go to the basic doc for the basic everyday stuff, not for the special stuff. Now I do suggest a sports medicine spinal doc, cause they know how to protect you from more muscle injury than regular spinal docs. Now get moving.". This internist has been my doc for over 25 years, is around my age and wouldn't trade him for the world. From my own experience, I did start wit! h a sports medicine doc and a pain doc that was part of his extensive sports medicine practice. They have a specialist for every type of of orthopedic problem that exists. Before I had the surgery, I got 8 different opinions from both neurosurgeons, orthopedic spine specialists and other sports medicine spine doctors. All of them where from the best hospitals in Boston MA and surrounding areas in MA. Including New England Baptist, Mass General, Brigham and Women's, Beth Israel, Lahey Clinic, U Mass Medical Center, and several private more local to my home doctors. All where eager to do surgery on my spine. All but the sports medicine docs wanted to do at least a 3 inch incision or larger. That way if it was needed, it would be already done. The orthopedic docs where far better in explaining things and relating to patients, family and anyone else that came with the patient. I found the neurosurgeons far more eager to cut with large incisions, more aggresive in their approach and in keeping patients in the hospital longer than necessary and waiting far longer to start physical therapy than the orthopedic docs. they lack communication skills and where not eager or pleased to have someone other than the patient in the room. With one of them, I actually gave the neurosurgeon a choice; me, my hubby and my best friend in the room together or I leave. he refused and I never saw the doc and he had the nerve to send me a bill for examinaion. Which I refused to pay, told the office why and they could sue me for the money. that was in May and haven't heard from them since. Neurosurgeons are not known for their people skills, but I didn't feel confident with any of them or their approach. All 3 sports medicine orthopedic spinal surgeons I saw, including the doc that I used, all had the same approach. Make the incission the minimal size needed to do the surgery and enlarge if only needed and only 1/4 inch at a time. Philosophy is, the less cutting, the less damage and injury. I also found that orthopedic spine surgeons where more up to date with procedures on spinal surgery than neurosurgeons, even in the best hospitals in MA and that sports medicine docs where the most up to date. Be sure you have all kinds of questions to ask and a list of everything possible to ask.Things like: How long the docs been in practice.How many of the surgeries that is said you need, has he done.What is the sucess rate and his.Be sure that he is liscenced in your state and with all the spinal boards.As about his continued educationtype of anesthesiaLength of surgery and stay in hospitalWhat kind of help will you need when you come home. (My hubby took 2 weeks off from work to help me out because I did need basic help. simple things like, going to the bathroom and getting around. Not to be gross or anything, but you will have trouble pulling down pants to go to the bathroom for a week or 2, especially if you are very short like I am. My arms weren't long enough to pull them down to go and you can't bend, stoop, turn etc for at least 2-3 weeks. Also I have problems metabolizing pain meds and need help getting around when taking them. Also needed help getting off the toilet.)What kind of restrictions you'll have after surgery. Anything you can think of to ask, ask. If the doc doesn't like answering the questions, no matter how many you have, then you don't want to use the doc. I had my original doc do my surgery and he sat with my hubby, myself, my best friend and my daughter and answered every single question all of us had. We all had different ones to ask, plenty that the others hadn't thought of. In total it was exactly 100 questions and he didn't flinch at any of them, even if he had to repeat the answers more than once. When we were through, he laughed and said "now you are sure there are no more now? don't forget to call if you have any more.". We did have more and called and he called back with the answers. I chose the doc I did for the following reasons.All 4 of us felt comfortable, confident and secure with his manner, personality and knowledge. He was well experienced, 25 years. Well trained, teaches at Harvard medical school, very relaxed person, really cared, and said "he really enjoyed doing surgery for spinal stenosis and disc problems because when he is done and the patient has recovered, he has the pleasure of seeing his patients return to living instead of horrible pain and disabilities. They have a life to live and enjoy". My daughter heard those words and said "what the hell are we waiting for, time to get this done and live again, and this is the doc to use.". She was so right and I had the surgery 3 days later. Sandi, get yourself busy getting a sports medicine spinal orthopedic specialist and let him evaluate you and follow his advise. If you don't like the guy find another and if he says surgery, get lots of opinions and then make your decision. If you have any questions on what he says ask him for more detail and info and I'll be glad to help, if I can. Oh yes, stay away from those places that pop up when you google for info on what is wrong. The ones that have all these testimonials, especially the place in Florida. Reall dangerous places. If you have to advertise and list all these wonderful things that people say about you, you know there is a question about how ethical and real they are. the place in florida, can't remember their name off hand, is always in trouble with the state and my doc has had to undo some of the damage they have caused. People have come in from all over the country to use my doc. so if you want a name or live near MA send me an e-mail directly and I can pass it along. Fran Sandi Bradshaw <sandib@...> wrote:Sorry to hear that, . Thanks to Fran, you have some very detailed informat! ion on what to expect, how to approach surgery, etc. I have another questions. My primary care doctor, an internist that is great with other health issue I have, does not appear to be very knowledgeable about my spinal stenosis and arthritis issues. Do most of you have one doctor that kind of oversees and gives you direction about your back/spine issues? I feel very left on my own to make all decisions. Trying chiropractic care was my idea, which didn't help. Went to a pain management group when I was unable to stop crying one morning the pain was so bad that I missed an entire week of work (very unlike me). Have been to see a neurosurgeon, who didn't want to do surgery until the ESI's don't work any more. I'm on my 4th ESI, but sure hate putting all the cortisone in my body. The ESI's have helped dramaticlly, but I"m sure the day will come when they lose their effectiveness. My concern with surgery is that for spinal stenosis, it is only effective for a few years, as the growths come back. I like Fran's opinion about seeing a sports medicine neurosurgeon and will probably do that. My husband had surgery for a disk issue and spinal stenosis about 10 years ago. It worked wonders, but only last about 5 years. He had surgery again not too long ago, but it did not help much. He's been told any additional spine surgery won't be of much benefit. He is now 75 (I'm 69). I'd like to avoid going down that same path, as his life is pretty limited. Sandi -----Original Message-----From: Spinal Stenosis Treatment [mailto:Spinal Stenosis Treatment ] On Behalf Of tygoch@...Sent: Saturday, October 14, 2006 2:36 PMSpinal Stenosis Treatment Subject: Re: Re SurgerySandiI I am told by my neuroligist that surgery is essentialStay in the know. Pulse on the new .com. Check it out. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 12, 2006 Report Share Posted November 12, 2006 Dear : I am just learning how to reply to emails on . I had the "x stop" procedure four weeks ago. It is a tiny titanium appliance that is inserted into the spine, opening space. It only works for some people, and if you are a candidate, it has excellent results. Dr. Zukerman in San Francisco pioneered the procedure in the US, but is has been used in Europe for a much longer time. This appears to be an answer for me and if I require further surgery, the x stop can be removed at that time without consequence. Worth a try. Hope you find some solution so that you can get back to life! Carolyn Re Surgery I am in the UK I have been diagnosed wit severe canal spinal stenosis . I am awaiting further consultation but at this stage it is probable that I will requie surgery. I woyld like to here from anyone who has exoerince of the after effects of such surgery. Anyone who can enlighten me , good bad or indifferant please conatct me either by the post or email direcet H Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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