|
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||
I'd like information on the condition where the spinous process make contact with the subsequent vertebra with hyperectension. but I don't know the name it begins with a B. Thank you Irma
From: Jul 31 2005
About facet joint neurotomy or radiofrequency--what limits the repeat of this treatment. or what are the dangers in repeating this treatment every six months. It has provided me with excellent relief in the thoracic and lumbar. This website has really changed everything for me. Thank you
From: Mar 18 2005
Regarding kyphoplasty for compression fractures of indeterminate age_ is there a % of height loss for optimal result. I have several smaller compressions and one at 50% one at 30% I appreciate your help. Tess
From: Mar 1 2005
Regarding kyphoplasty for compression fractures of indeterminate age_ is there a % of height loss for optimal result. I have several smaller compressions and one at 50% one at 30% I appreciate your help. Tess
From: Mar 1 2005
Norian SRS. the bone repair cement. had a viscosity that made use of it in vertebra more difficult. Is it currently being used for vertebral repair? Which institutions are most advanced with vertebroplasty? Thanks Terry
From: Jan 20 2005
Norian has been used in the past as a cement substitute. I am not aware of it use at this time. Most vertebroplasties are performed by interventional radiologist. You want to look for a center that has a strong radiology department that works closely with spine surgeons.
Juan Carlos Bartolomei, MD Feb 9 2005
I keep hearing that someone is performing precompression vertebroplasty. I have a Dexa T-score of -4.7. Where is it being done?
From: Jan 4 2005
Vertebroplasty performed before a fracture occurs is very controversial. The procedure has complications that may outweigh benefits if the patient does not yet have a fracture.
Praveen V. Mummaneni, MD Jan 9 2005
See also Osteoporosis
See also Vertebroplasty
Hello.I am 58 years old and experience severe pain in lumbar region.My Xray report says A.P and Lateral views of the lumbo-sacral spine reveal that lumbar vertebrae show osteoporosis and osteophytes. Intervertebral disc spaces are reduced at the level of L2_L3 L3_L4 L5_S1. Pedicles show normal outline and interpedicular distances present normal measurements. Spinous and transverse processes are normal. Lumbar spine shows scoliosis.Is this curable by any chance.What treatment do u suggest. I live hectic and active life. so I am not able to rest all day. Please help me at the earliest.
From: cooltime42 Jul 14 2004
Lower back pain is often difficult to treat. Most patients are treated with conservative measures such as physical therapy, injections, and medications. A small subset of patients can be helped by lumbar surgery.
Harel Deutsch, MD Jul 22 2004
See also Low Back Pain
See also What I should know about Lumbar Fusion
See also Massage Therapy
See also Pain Management Index
For 2 yrs. I have had mild herniation at the L4-5 L5-S1 area. Constant back pain with severe daily leg pains. For the past 2 weeks my back on both sides. mostly left though. down the sides of left leg crossing in front down calves into feet. 3 days ago. I was walking and lost all use of my left leg for a full 5 minutes. What does this mean and what can be done? Thanks.
From: globell45 Jul 14 2004
You may have degenerative changes in your lumbar spine. It is difficult to conjecture about the exact details without looking at the films or undergoing an examination. I would consult with your physician or a spine surgeon.
Harel Deutsch, MD Jul 22 2004
See also Low Back Pain
See also What I should know about Lumbar Fusion
I am a victim of two L-5 disc herniations which required surgery. I am know having severe. sharp pain that goes down my left leg. but only with movement. what may be causing this and what do I do about it. My second micro-discectomy was one year ago.
From: tlowery Jul 13 2004
after multiple surgeries, some patients develop scar tissue also called arachnoiditis. an MRI with contrast can show if this problem exists.
Praveen V. Mummaneni, MD Jul 13 2004
See also Arachnoiditis
My son is 24 and has been diagnosed with a kyphosis of 58 degrees. There is also an exaggerated lordotic curve. but I do not know the degree. Is surgery done for purely cosmetic reasons at this age or is it too late? THank you so much.
From: annaac Jul 13 2004
It is not too late, the indications for surgery are- progression of curvature, difficulty with lung expansion and breathing, loss of spinal balance with back pain, cosmetic deformity.
Praveen V. Mummaneni, MD Jul 13 2004
See also Scoliosis
Do epidurals for back pain create scar tissue that result in more pain? I have had 2 bakc surgeries -L4-5 & L5s1 in 2003. I have had 6 steriod epidurals in the past year. I just had a nerve block last week and the Doctor said that I had scar tissue in the S1.S2 & S3 that was probably causing my pain in that area.
From: candyd Jul 12 2004
No, steroids actually decrease inflammatory activity anywhere in the body they are put.
Gerald E. Rodts, MD Jul 12 2004
I had anterior cervical diskectomy in 2001. still servere pain.had therapy and also seen a orthopedic specialist.the plate is in place and mri shows everything is fine. Currently go for bio-feedback at pain clinic. What other alternative do I have and should I just accept that I may have chronic pain from now on?Thanks for your cooperation.
From: cyntpearson Jul 12 2004
It depends on where a patient is experiencing pain- down the arm_shouder, in the neck itself, etc. One must first make sure that the fusion is solid. Secondly, one must make sure that there are no residual, recurrent or new areas of nerve or spinal cord impingement. If no abnormalities are found, then one must learn to live with their pain and employ physical therapy, biofeedback, anti-inflammatory medication, stretching, etc.
Gerald E. Rodts, MD Jul 12 2004
I have been diagnosed with a congenital deformity of the posterior arches of C1. C2 and C3. A bony structure protruding into my spinal cord causing me to lose spinal fluid and a great deal of pain. I was told nothing could be done for this situation but to take medication for the pain. Nothing seems to help. I am afraid this "extra bone" will eventually cut my spinal cord in to. Is this a reasonably fear? Is there some type of treatment to alleviate the pain and help with body movement? Thank you for your consideration to my situation. Linda Williams
From: LINDAJWW Jul 11 2004
Congenital abnormalities that are causing spinal cord compression AND spinal cord problems (pain alone is different) may very well need surgical intervention. If a congenital abnormality is NOT causing spinal cord problems but has led to instability of the spine and chronic pain, surgical intervention may be an option. If there is no instability and no neurological problem and no signficant deformity (e.g. kyphosis), then surgery would likely NOT be recommended.
Gerald E. Rodts, MD Jul 12 2004
What exactly is Anterolisthesis with spondylolysis and netural foraminal stenosis? What treatment or opitions do I have for this? Is this life threating? Thank You. Keitha
From: krathbone Jul 11 2004
Antero means "in the front part" and listhesis means "slippage." Anterolisthesis means slippage of one vertebra forward on the next one. Spondylosis is chronic wear and tear in the spine including disc degeneration, bone spur formation and other changes that are a normal part of aging. Neural formainal stenosis is narrowing of the bony opening through which the nerves exit the spine. Multiple nonoperative and (if necessary) surgical treatments may be an option.
Gerald E. Rodts, MD Jul 12 2004
i had a microscopic discectomy 2 months ago.my pain has returned.my dr.had me get another mri which shows no difference from pre-op to post-op what does this mean?did he take enough of the disk?what are my options now?
From: missyg Jul 10 2004
Postoperative MR scans can be confusing and even in patients who have a good result can look like the preop studies. Your surgeon is your guide. If further surgery is not an optino then waiting, cortisone blocks or pain management with medications are all reasonable options.
Lali Sekhon, MD Jul 12 2004
Would you please tell me what part of the cervical spine makes the shoulder and upper back muscles work?
From: pelrineboys Jul 10 2004
C5 does the deltoid muscle which raises the shoulder and arm. C4 does innervate some upper back muscles
Praveen V. Mummaneni, MD Jul 13 2004
i had a l5-s1 fusion with a cage and would like to know if i will be able to bend and twist anytime soon? how long does it take to heal?
From: Jul 10 2004
I don't let my patients bend, twist or lift for 3 months. The fusion is not solid for 3-6 months.
Lali Sekhon, MD Jul 12 2004
I an interested in a procedure where cervical and lumbar facet nerves are burned and also finding a physician in my area to do these procedures. Thank you!
From: rubyflame Jul 9 2004
Radiofrequency ablation. pain management doctors usually do this.
Praveen V. Mummaneni, MD Jul 13 2004
See also Find A Specialist
Hi. I am interested in finding out if several large haemangiomas found along the lumbar spine could be the cause of chronic lower back pain? MRI and CT scans have shown no disc degeneration or disease. only the presence of haemangiomas and moderate osteoporosis of the lumbar and hips. Do osteoporosis cause back pain? Or is my chronic back pain psychological? Thank you very much for your precious time.
From: massage Jul 9 2004
most hemangiomas do not cause symptoms, rarely some can grow and press on the spinal nerves, some may also weaken the bone and patients can have fractures.
Praveen V. Mummaneni, MD Jul 13 2004
See also Low Back Pain
I have a 2 level disc deneration disease. Is there any way a 2 level disc replacement can be performed? Also. how far along is it until the FDA will approve disc replacements?
From: catandjan Jul 8 2004
Two level disc replacements can be performed outside the U.S. It will be 2-5 years before they are available in the U.S.
Lali Sekhon, MD Jul 12 2004
28 week pregnant 35 year old. C5-6 fusion August 03. DDD and cervical stenosis at adjacent levels. Fusion helped with radiculopathy. but pain from spasm is increasing. PT 2-3 days a week not helping. Would like trigger point injections to help until I'm post partum. but pain doc won't do these without OB permission. OB says injections no good during pregnancy. Any literature on management during pregnancy? Need help. Am completely miserable and can't even sleep. advice would be much appreciated. Want healthy baby. but am near point of self-medicating.
From: evymae Jul 8 2004
This is a difficult situation and a little too specific for this website. I'd suggest your spine surgeon and OBGYN doc talk together.
Lali Sekhon, MD Aug 21 2004
What bases is used to determine whether a person should see a nerosurgeon or a orthopedic surgeon. Thank You. JUdith Guerin plumbob3@localnet.com
From: Jul 7 2004
Spine sufferers should see a spinal surgeon (ortho or neuro) who is experienced in the management of spinal conditions.
Lali Sekhon, MD Jul 12 2004
Motor vehicle accident Sept.10.2003. two broken ribs. many contusions on shoulder and left leg and continuing pain in left side of neck into head with sudden movement side to side or up and down. Been in physical therapy since March. last appointment July 7th. He had done manual traction and I am using a Sauder Home Traction at home. Bone spurs were found in my neck. I have lumbar fusion from scoliosis as teen. I am now 56. No prior complaints from neck area. No MRI was done. Any suggestions?
From: spots1 Jul 7 2004
MR scanning is generally only used if there are symptoms suggestive of nerve or spinal cord compression. Neck pain alone should initially be investigated with plain xrays especially after a motor vehicle accident.
Lali Sekhon, MD Aug 21 2004
Am a 58 y_o fe. former OR nurse injured in 88-ant hern of L4-5 and L5-S1. one left & one right. fused at both levels.Tried to work. but experienced a "pop" and increasing pain. again with leg weakness. 93-ant and post fusions at L3-4. 4-5. Am trying to work. but have experienced increasing pain. weakness. etc. When I lay on my side for about 10 min. I start having pain shooting to my foot.Have to sleep in recliner. Are there any type of centers that are doing research for those of us with previous fusions and how are success rates. Thank you
From: eldegar Jul 6 2004
Some patients with this type of problem may benefit from spinal cord stimulators.
Praveen V. Mummaneni, MD Jul 13 2004
See also Spinal Pumps
See also Find A Specialist
persons with scoliosis does it have any effect on pregnancy?
From: ladybyrd34 Jul 6 2004
most patients with mild scoliosis do not have a problem with pregnancy, those with a significant scoliosis should consult with their doctor.
Praveen V. Mummaneni, MD Jul 13 2004
See also Scoliosis
dear professor hello please help and guide me to know the origin and destitation for measuring the anteroposterior diameter of lumbar vertebra and any measurmental criteria at lumbar spinal stenosis. scincerly yours m.r
From: Jul 4 2004
In general, when the spinal canal is less than 1 cm in front to back length, patients generally have stenosis,there are other factors to consider such as space occupied in the canal by bone, ligament and disc. this can be seen on MRI.
Praveen V. Mummaneni, MD Jul 13 2004
See also Stenosis
See also MRI's
Two months ago I was in a accident in which I was bent over and hit the dashboard. The top of my head hit and shoved it down into my spine. much like a spring contracted then let go. What is the term for this? How can I explain the continued pain to my doctor so he can help releive the pain between my chiropractor visits?
From: Sheri Jul 4 2004
That would be an axial compression injury.
Praveen V. Mummaneni, MD Jul 13 2004
I am 56 years old. in excellent physical condition.exercise regularly. and have slight lower back pain on occasion. I have known I have scoliosis since age 30. but have ignored it. except for doing back exercises and lots of stretching. I just found out the scoliosis is progressing. Does that mean I should consider surgery-- now. while I am still strong and fit? I have 4 curves_ comparing current to 3 1_2 year-old xrays reveals that my 3 neck and thoracic curves have progressed from 6 to 8. 10 to 16. and 18 to 24 degrees. The lumbar curve has stayed at 23-24 degrees.
From: rinnaroo Jul 3 2004
progression of curvature on serial xrays of more than 5 degrees is significant. Less than five degrees is within the error of measurement. in general, with progressive curves, if a patient is out of spinal balance, then correction with surgery can be considered and it is better done when someone is younger.
Praveen V. Mummaneni, MD Jul 13 2004
See also Scoliosis
i experienced a shooting pain at my lower back.it happens when i am so much excited_arouse sometimes.like this morning.i was in a seminar and was hoping to win a prize by answering this question.after i answered and felt very excited and nervous.i started feeling this shooting pain.i couldn't breath properly for about 2 minutes.what was that pain caused by? thank you for your reply.
From: Jul 3 2004
PAin related to stressful situations and associated with an inability to breath is suspicious for causes outside the spine. Anxiety and hyperventilation can cause similar symptoms. Yuo need to be guided by your GP.
Lali Sekhon, MD Jul 12 2004
hi . I have a friend having a low back pain . and someone has told her that the cause is abortion that she had 4 years ago . Is this true ? Because he said he got that information on the Internet . I'm curious . Please explain. Thank you . Huongdao
From: huongdao Jul 2 2004
This is unlikely.
Lali Sekhon, MD Jul 12 2004
I have a bone spur on the end of one of my 11th and 12th rib that has been causing me pain for over five years now. I have been taking pain killers and anti-inflamatory pills to help relieve some of this pain. I have also been to pain specialist to have nerve blocks done which don't seem to work. My PCP doctor doesn't know who to send me to anymore for help. I talked to one doctor while I was getting a physical for DOT certification and he said to look on line so this is what I am doing. What kind of doctor would be able to remove these spurs or the whole rib?
From: Jul 1 2004
Bone spurs are not usually the problem. They usually represent the body's attempt to heal the area. Spine surgeons and thoracic surgeons work on the rib - spine junction.
Brian R. Subach, MD Dec 22 2004
Is there a connection between sciacia and scoliosis? Or can one be mistaken for another? My 18 yr old daughter is 7 mnths pregnant and was told she had sciacia and now they say she may have scoliosis. I was just curious. hope u can help. Thank you KIM D
From: kimd Jun 30 2004
Scoliosis can put abnormal pressure on the facet joints which may enlarge and then pinch an exiting nerve root giving a person sciatica. Pregnancy can also by itself contribute to sciatica sometimes because the baby can lie on the nerve. Usually pregnancy related sciatica resolves after delivery.
Harel Deutsch, MD Jul 29 2004
I have both scoliosis and stenosis I have been to a orthopedic surgeon.But now wonder if I should see a neurosurgeon.What determins which physician should I see? Thank You. Judith Guerin
From: Jun 30 2004
You need a spine surgeon who is skilled with scoliosis surgery, either neuro or orthopedic.
Lali Sekhon, MD Aug 21 2004
On June 11. 2003 I had ACDF and it was sucessful except for the top portion of the cervical plate pulled forward about 60%. I feel wonderful and was wondering if I should have the plate removed or if it is not bothering me (I can eat anything) wait to see what happens. There has been no movement since September 2003. My doctor has left our area. Should I consult with another Orthopedic Specialist?
From: kona Jun 29 2004
I would get it checked out. Plates usually move when there is a problem. Be sure that the neck is healing properly and the plate is not causing a problem. I saw a patient from another surgeon who had a screw back out slowly. It did not cause symptoms until it rubbed a hole in his throat. I would get it looked at.
Brian R. Subach, MD Dec 22 2004
I have been diagnosed with DDD. I have 3 discs involved. All I seem to hear is that no more than 2 is all that can be fused. I have extreme pain in my lower back and intense numbness in one leg or the other. I have had the epidural injections. no change. I am frustrated because of my condition. I work standing up. I can't change that. Even daily chores get to me. How can I exercise if I am in pain?
From: triciamcnelly Jun 29 2004
Frustrating situation. Have you had a discogram performed to see if all the discs are similarly contributing to your pain?
Brian R. Subach, MD Dec 22 2004
I have been diagnosed with Spinal Stenocis and Osteoarthritis. I am over weight and surgery is not recommended. But I was told to do some dieting and walking. but nothing else. I am in pain constantly in my right leg from thigh to foot with some numbing sensations. I would like to ask if there are other things I should be doing or recommended medications. I'm at a loss with my pain.
From: skeptic101 Jun 28 2004
Riding a stationary bicycle may allow you to burn more calories with less pain. Swimming also represents a lowimpact alternative.
Brian R. Subach, MD Dec 22 2004
I have a 16 year old daughter w_scoliosis (25 -30 degrees) Her Dr. has just observed her up until now w_o tx. and curve has worsened recently. Is there a specific exercise based treatment you would recommend to stabilize or correct curvature. I know there is a program in Europe at the Schroth Clinic but wondered what treatments were available in the US. that do not include bracing and surgery.
From: parent Jun 28 2004
If she is progressing, she will most likely require surgery to halt the worsening curve.
Brian R. Subach, MD Dec 22 2004
Hello I am a 17 yr. old female and I was wondering if spinal stapling could still be considered as a treatment for scoliosis at my age. I have read many of the articles on the site and it continues saying that it is for younger children. please help me... i just want to be normal. thank you for your time. Nikki R.
From: nikkir86 Jun 27 2004
It depends upon the severity of your curve. Get checked out by a spinal specialist to learn about your options,
Brian R. Subach, MD Dec 22 2004
I have been diagnosed with severe lumbar levorotatory scoliosis and degenerative disc space narrowing the disc desiccation at all levels. I was reading about the new disc replacements. I am 57 yrs old and have been unable to perform normal activities. even walking. standing. sleeping etc. What can you recommend? I have MRI's and currently getting spinal injections that don't seem to work yet. Please help.
From: JimHughson Jun 26 2004
My diagnosis is cervical myelopathy with OPLL and congenital stenosis. My doctor recommended posterior laminoplasty . but my neck shows straight or slightly kyphotic curvature. Can you treat kyphotic neck with posterior lamionplasty with posterior fixation?
From: cdk270 Jun 26 2004
Laminoplasty is better if there is no kyphosis as the kyphosis can be accentuated. Talk to your surgeon about your concerns.
Lali Sekhon, MD Aug 21 2004
The impression from the result of my MRI reads "exuberant perineural cyst formation. most pronounced in the sacral spine but also involving to a lesser extent the lumbar neural exit foramina as outlined." These measure up to 3cm. Can these be malignant? The MRI also showed degenerative disk disease. stenosis. facet arthropathy. and narrowed neural foramina. I am 50 yr old. in generally good health. What would be the usual treatment?
From: Jun 25 2004
my pain level has increased within the past several weeks and when i have a bowel movement. i have pain in my back and my left leg. i have a degenerative disc at l5 and want to know is this causing the pain. i am schceduled surgery next week and will this help? also. is it ok to wear a back brace for support when the pain in unbearable?
From: juice34 Jun 25 2004
My son was diagnosed with kyphosis 3 years ago at the age of 13 however he had already had his mager growth spirt and they were unable to brace him. Surgury at that time was an option however since then after spending 3 years thinking and praying my son wanted the surgury and was informed they no longer do that surgury. He is very upset about this . He has a very level head and a great deal of faith. What I need to know is are there any places doing the surgury anymore and if so are any like Shriner's free to the patient and his family I have no insurance.
From: wildmack Jun 24 2004
My son was diagnosed with kyphosis 3 years ago at the age of 13 however he had already had his mager growth spirt and they were unable to brace him. Surgury at that time was an option however since then after spending 3 years thinking and praying my son wanted the surgury and was informed they no longer do that surgury. He is very upset about this . He has a very level head and a great deal of faith. What I need to know is are there any places doing the surgury anymore and if so are any like Shriner's free to the patient and his family I have no insurance.
From: wildmack Jun 24 2004
My son was diagnosed with kyphosis 3 years ago at the age of 13 however he had already had his mager growth spirt and they were unable to brace him. Surgury at that time was an option however since then after spending 3 years thinking and praying my son wanted the surgury and was informed they no longer do that surgury. He is very upset about this . He has a very level head and a great deal of faith. What I need to know is are there any places doing the surgury anymore and if so are any like Shriner's free to the patient and his family I have no insurance.
From: wildmack Jun 24 2004
I am 56 years old and have had several heart attacks. I HAVE A HERNIATED DISC IN MY NECK AND 2 IN THE LUMBAR AREA. THESE ARE CAUSING PRESSURE ON MY SPINAL CORD AND NERVES RESULTING IN EXTREME WEAKNESS IN MY LEGS TO THE POINT WHERE i CAN NO LONGER WALK AND IN MY LEFT ARM AND HAND WHICH I ALSO CANNOT USE. my QUESTION IS WOULD IT BE BETTER TO HAVE BOTH SURGERIES DONE AT THE SAME TIME OR TO HAVE 2 SEPARATE SURGERIES?mY HEART IS IN EXCELLENT CONDITION AT THIS TIME.tHANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP.
From: calamity Jun 23 2004
My L5-S1 right facet was damaged and badly fractured during a laminectomy over a year ago. Since then I have had worse chronic pain than my original problem. I have been advised to have a radiofrequency nerve dernervation. Is this a proven procedure? Is it approved by the FDA and can it be effective? I would appreciate your opinion.Thanks.
From: Johnny Jun 23 2004
Facet radiofrequency denervation is safe although it only has limited effectiveness. Surgery to fuse a spinal segment may be necessary if there is a damaged facet and pain.
Harel Deutsch, MD Jul 22 2004
See also Low Back Pain
See also What I should know about Lumbar Fusion
See also What is Physical Therapy
Hello. I had a C-spine MRI which showed the following_ At the C4-5 level there is a focal left paramedian disk extrusion. The extrusion abuts but does not appear to displace the cervical spinal cord. There is no apparent C5 root impingement. Mild C5-6 disk desiccation. My question is simply this 1. Could this be why I get so many headaches_stiff_burning neck pain? and 2. What sort of specialist should I see to fix this problem? I am an otherwise healthy 39 yo female. Thank you for your time. Dee
From: DeeDeeDee Jun 23 2004
I hope you will forgive me for asking another question. but I have never heard this one. I had an 8 level scoliosis correction. My surgeon put the apex of my lumbar spine above the iliac crest or waist line. Now my waist is enlarged. and I have a difficult time finding clothing to fit. Is this unusual? He also made me appear very sway back. Is there any reason he would do this? Thanks.
From: Brandon Jun 22 2004
Hi I had a laminectomy on 18 Feb o4 for 2 weeks after surgery with the aid of a walker I walked pretty well. then the pain in my back and legs returned with a vengeance I am now worse off than before surgery. I had an MRI last week and the surgeon says he cant do any more for me and further surgery is not indicated but I am in terrible pain back.buttocks & legs. What would or should my next course of action be. I have become an invalid even with my walker I cant walk a block.Iam75 ThaNKS
From: lajim1030 Jun 22 2004
Hi! could you please tell me if after fusion therapy it would be possible at a later stage to have the procedure reversed to a prosthetic disc procedure if to many problems are experienced. Regards Doug Booth
From: boothd Jun 21 2004
At present the answer is no.
Harel Deutsch, MD Jul 22 2004
Hello Docttors. I had a fusion L-5 may 2003. and during PT while doing certain exercises. or certain movement at home. my fusion clunks. and I feel some movement along with pain. is this normal occurance with a fusion? I appreciate the opportunity to ask questions..Thank you..
From: starangel3 Jun 21 2004
Hi! I'm 17 years old and a year ago. I was diagnosed with three herniated discs in my lower back due to degenerative joint disease. I feel this horrible pain everyday and I have made the decision not to go through with surgery. My question is this...by participating in sports and still feeling this horrible pain for about a year and a half and leaving this condition untreated. am I setting myself up for my condition to get worse leading to potential paralysis? Is paralysis possible?
From: Alyson Jun 20 2004
Hello. Wanted to know the differnces between_ 1-protuding disks.2-Extruding disks.3-herniated disks Also. what is the treatments for each one Thank You for your time
From: mango Jun 20 2004
They can all be used interchangeably by radiologists. Generally herniated implies a greater degree of protruding than protruding.
Harel Deutsch, MD Jul 22 2004
I had a Football injury 45 years ago and two of my lower back disks are compressed. Over the years I have had problems but they are getting worse with age. Two weeks ago I was bent over working on my car and could not get back to erec. The pain in my lower back caused me to go to the ER. The XRays showed the compressed disks and Arthritis. My questions are_What can I Do or not Do to best manage my back (pain)?What best prevention can I take? What type of positions (or activities) should I avoid? Thanking you in advance. Paul
From: pperson Jun 19 2004
I would like a clearer definition of Cauda Equina Syndrome. For many years. I have had periods of urinary hesitancy (not full retention. just slowed stream) that coincide with worse axial pain_ (I have moderate central stenosis at L 2_3). These symptoms usually last a few days. I sometimes get sharp rectal or genital pains as well. but no saddle anesthesia. These symptoms come and go. Is this a version of cauda and is it. by itself. a definitive indication for surgery?
From: hgreensp Jun 19 2004
Two years ago (age 29) I had T12 compression fracture but was misdiagnosed then no doc would touch me because I was starting treatment for breast cancer. Osteoporosis caused the fracture. no metastasis to spine. It healed. then collapsed again and is now wedged. forming small lump on my spine. I have chronic pain. some tingling in back and lots of spasms. Is there any procedure that can help? Thank you!
From: bescarce Jun 18 2004
Stabilizing the spine is possible through an anterior approach. It is a relatively large surgery although it can potentially help if other measures hav e been unsuccessful.
Harel Deutsch, MD Jul 22 2004
HELLO AND COULD YOU PLEASE EXPLAIN WHAT IS UNSTABLE SPINE(CERVICAL) AND WHAT SYMPTOMS WOULD A PERSON HAVE WIHT A HIGH CERVICAL COMPRESSION OR HERNIATION THANK YOU.
From: MABH Jun 18 2004
does idd(internal disc compression) thearapy work for someone with a degnerative disc diesease? i did the thearapy for 20 sessions and now i might have to have surgery. any suggestions? juice34
From: Jun 17 2004
Are there any dangers or risks of having a baby if the mother has scoliosis with a curvature of 25-30 degrees?
From: meaghan Jun 17 2004
I am 32 years old and I had 2 Laminectomies at L4-L5 in the past 2 years. The latest was done on 2_18_04. I still get numbness in my left foot and ankle and back pain when I stand for about 15-20 minutes. Sitting releives all symptoms. Do you think I need a spinal fusion? My doctor is reccommending I do it if the symptoms don't subside with PT. He also stated that he isn't sure if I would be a candidate for the ADR since the structure isn't normal due to the Laminectomy. Does the Laminectomy surgery make you not a candidate for ADR?
From: s_caswell Jun 16 2004
After 6 back surgeries and still having problems with my neck.I have had the nerves burnt in my neck. It seems to work for 5 or 6 months and then I have to have them done again.I am scheduled to have it done for the 3rd time in 2yrs this July. Can the nerves grow back this quick? Will they die after several trips? Can a person that is fused be considered for Disc replacement? How can I be considered for clinical trials.
From: cassr1313 Jun 16 2004
I am a 25yr female. I was in a car accident 6 weeks ago. I have been having consistant pain in my neck and left shoulder which goes down my left arm. My doctor has done a MRI and a EMG. I have 3 discs in my neck that appear to have loss of fluid and I have not yet received my results from the EMG. At my last appiontment my doctor told me that by now I should be getting better and he doesn't know what is wrong with me. He also says my only option may be surgery. We have tried pain medication. traction and therapy and nothing seems to help. Is surgery my only option?
From: jadefrog24 Jun 16 2004
I have spinal fusion surgery in August 2003 on L4 and L5 in my spine during my surgery my doctor says he damage or stretch my nerve at this point he does not know which nerve he is still during test to figure this out.I have a cage in my back and aalot of screws.I am in constantly pain and constantly swellin in my leg and foot.
From: jaiden1 Jun 15 2004
I have a herniated disc at L4-L5 and an annular tear at L5-S1. I have been suffering from back pain since 1991. Over the last 2-3 years. it has gotten worse and now I am constant on Bextra 2x_d. What are my options -- PRODISC at 2 levels. fusion at 2 levesl using BMP. other? Have exhausted PT.
From: cchakra1 Jun 15 2004
Is an Epidural the correct treatment for nerve root compression and would it bring about any degree of DEcompression of the nerve? If not. is surgery the only answer when normal physio has failed? Many thanks -
From: Jun 14 2004
An epidural does not decompress a nerve. A epidural can relieve inflammation and help symptomatically.
Harel Deutsch, MD Jul 22 2004
See also Herniated Disc
See also Lumbar Laminectomy
I have an annoying. aching sensation on left side of my upper backbone area. It also creates a sensation on the tip area of my left middle finger. Is this a back issue or something else?
From: christine42 Jun 14 2004
