My story....new here...chemically sensitive disc

[dridobits]

Well I had my facet block and it didn't help at all. I also had my bone density test which I am still awaiting the results for. I have two appointments with surgeons in June and just can't wait to move forward and get more information on the decision regarding ADR vs. fusion.

So much to think about...especially when it comes to raising the $$$. My insurance won't pay for me to go out and I do not feel comfortable with them doing surgery. They amputated someones left leg months ago when it was the other leg they needed to do. My left, your right is always on my sharpee. More later.

[jessmith07]

I have to have one done tomorrow...what is this test like, exactly? Do they take films that I can take with me to Germany? I'm sitting here making lists of all the things I need to do before I leave next Friday...I'm getting so nervous, I started having panic attacks again last night, for no reason I could see other than the "Date" is nearing...

[dshobbies]

Jess,

Panic attacks are part of this process. Let me assure you, we all survived. Breathing helps but the best cure only happens the day AFTER surgery. All the panic and crazies suddenly disappear

A bone density test is absolutely painless. You lie on an exam table, fully clothed, the machine passes over you, end of test. No films. One less thing to worry about.

Seriously, I know how you feel. I realize it doesn't help but this isn't a nose job, it's serious body altering surgery. Stress is part of this disease and part of the cure. Even after surgery, a little blip will send your mind into overdrive. If you know how to meditate, I suggest it. If not, take some time to learn relaxation techniques... deep breathing, relaxing your muscles. (pm me if you'd like specifics). It helps a lot more than you'd think.

Good luck, Dale

[treefrog]

Jess, to expand on what Dale said, the bone density test results should just be a few sheets of paper with charts and numbers (at least that's what mine were).

The numbers they are interested in are T-scores (and maybe Z-scores). My problem was determining which T-scores they wanted, because there were a few of them. I would ask Dr. Fenk-Mayer if she wants you to fax them to her before you get there, or if you should just bring the results with you.

I have stuff to do before I leave work, and getting ready for the trip. But I don't want to do a lot of it, especially the work stuff. I just want to be in Germany and have the surgery so that I can know what the result is likely to be. If I could fast forward three weeks, I would.

[dridobits]

Jess, I'm not sure I understood if you were having the bone density test or the facet block. How are you doing? I think by now you have had the test?

Tree, I am so rooting for you and the best possible outcome!!!!

Let us know how things are going for you both.

[jessmith07]

I had the bone density test yesterday. The worst part about it was laying on my back OUCH! That is so painful, even for just a few minutes.

they wouldn't give me a copy of the printout right then, but said they would fax it my doctor Monday or Tuesday. I also had then fax it to my Chiropractor, as I have an excellent relationship with him and I know he'll get me a copy without any flack.

[dridobits]

Jess, glad that is done. I have mine last week and will get the results soon. I am going to see the Ortho surgeon at my HMO to discuss surgery although I do not think I will have them do it. Long story. They did require another xray and more tests and have long question list so I feel I'm starting to make progress.

Hope the banks will help me out. HMO appt. is in three weeks and have appts. in NY with Dr. Bervin in June and another appt. with Dr. Neuwirth in NYC also. More later.