by 02kar Moderator 11 Apr 2011

minimally invasive surgery. I have been struggling to stay out of surgery for 7 years with my neck (30 years with my lumbar spine). But I seem to be losing the battle with numbness and weakness down to my hand now. I struggle with pain meds so not a good option. I have done everything that can be done, including professional massage, chiropractic care and physical therapy for more years than I care to count. We could have paid off our house with all the money spent on methods to control pain and to fix the problems. I had my 1st back surgery done by a doctor who does minimally invasive surgery with excellent results. I would like to go the same route with this 2nd spinal surgery. My husband has been researching these doctors and found that my former doctor is now in California. We were hoping to find someone closer, but would love to have more info on these folks before committing to anything. I can wait for as long as I need to, but am hoping not to have to have traditional fusing with foreighn objects in my body.

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by mi30kaja 12 Apr 2011

Can't imagine the pain you are going through. I just hope you can get it all sorted soon so you can have a painless peaceful life. Best Wishes. Lyn

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by laffma1 12 Apr 2011

Did you contact your former doctor to ask if he can recommend another surgeon in your area? Back/neck pain is hard to live with for any length of time, and progressively worsens. You are doing the right thing by researching your options before making a decision. Hope it all works out for you.

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by rmj8939 12 Apr 2011

I am sorry to read of your pain and troubles. Hope that you find someone soon and can be fixed and be well. I will say a prayer for you.

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by shirlener88 12 Apr 2011

Good luck Karen - we will be praying for you and to help narrow the search and decision making down.

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by wishfulthinking 12 Apr 2011

02kar
I was sorry to read you have been in pain for so long and this has cost you and your family so much in terms of distress as well as financially. I sincerely hope this is sorted soon and you are feeling much better.
Take good care
~x~

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by read180 12 Apr 2011

I live in Minneapolis I will check with some Dr. friends and see what they could suggest for you.
I know the pain can be so intense. Have you tried a TENS" is the acronym for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. A "TENS unit" is a pocket size, portable, battery-operated device that sends electrical impulses to certain parts of the body to block pain signals.

The electrical currents produced are mild, but can prevent pain messages from being transmitted to the brain and may raise the level of endorphins (natural pain killers produced by the brain).
Cindy B.

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sewfrenzie by sewfrenzie 12 Apr 2011

I use one too, its helps make days that would otherwise me miserible something I can handle.

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by sewlikedawn 11 Apr 2011

Sorry that you have been in pain for so long. I will keep you in my prayers that you find the right doctor. Finding the doctor is the most important issue! God Bless and take care of yourself! Just stay on Cute longer each time and that should make you feel better. Hope so! Hugs Dawn

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by lilylady 11 Apr 2011

did your husband come up with anything on Mayo Clinic at Rochester Mn. That is the one that is know as the best in Minnesota

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by piebaldbully 11 Apr 2011

which surgical center were you looking at ??? I am not far from the twin cities.

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by bevintex 11 Apr 2011

are you looking for a nuerosurgeon?

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by mariahail 11 Apr 2011

HAVE YOU CHECK HOUSTON MEDICAL CENTER? GOOD LUCK AND HOPE YOU FIND THE RIGHT DOCTOR.************

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by ssampsel 11 Apr 2011

hoping that you'll find the info you need, surgery is such a drastic step. i also vote minimal invasive, sometimes it's hard to find a doctor that agrees. i finally found one for my problems!

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