More Annualr Tear info..

[dridobits]

Docs I have spoken with have told me they do not heal due to the lack of blood supply. I finally had surgery as I had a chemically sensitive disc about 1 1/4 years ago. Although I have had two rough periods, In general I am glad I did the surgery. From what I understood the entire disc really needs to come out either through ADR or fusion depending on other factors.

My nerve pain is gone from the chemically sensitive disc. I've had many good months. In an article I found by a doctor who is very familiar with chemically sensitive discs he says that people who have surgery with this do better after surgery. That is what helped me make my decision. He's a very good doctor who did my discogram. I can look up the article if you wish.

[cp7959]

DR thanks for the response. I have read many WEB sites from Dr.'s as well as Chiro's, PT's and potential patients. Everyone has a different view. Even Laser Spine Institutes Marketing machine say's most Tears heal on there own.

I did read many times that Fusion and ADR is the only "fix". However my Surgeon who has done my fusions, ADR removal and ADR says if needed he would only need to remove part of the disc. Mark's view is a disectomy could be a solution as well.

So many mixed messages.My feeling is only time will tell for each individual case.

You have a (2) level lumbar fusion? How is your pain level and range of motion? Was recovery tough? How close to "normal" do you feel?

I really appreciate the feedback. Back / neck problems are terrible.

[dridobits]

I had the fusion because my disc was what some call as chemically sensitive. It took me years to get a proper diagnosis. My range of motion isnt so much an issue, except when parking the car. The recovery has tough but nothing like all the pain I had endured for so many years. I dont think Ill ever be normal, I just dont have the excruciating burning, tickling and other bizzarre nerve problems that came with a chemically sensitive disc. Now when I have problems I have deep spasms. Im having a rough bout right now and am on a round of prednisone but I know its stress related. Its the second time since my fusion this has happened. Other than this, the last year I was hiking, doing things I never thought I would do again. Im on half the medication. I dont regret my surgery, but its certainly no fix all. I waited over ten years hoping my tears would get better but I kept reinjuring them. Correct me if Im wrong but I dont know there is a blood supply that goes to the area to heal a tear.