Looking into ADR

**moorejames** · 09-16-2009, 06:27 PM

New guy checking in. Had problems with my neck for approx 9 years. Xrays/MRI last year showed problems with c5-c6 and c6-c7 (and c3-c4 doesn't look all that hot either).

Massage, Chiro, PT, traction, accupuncture, epidurals (pretty much in that order) have had some limited succes in keeping the pain at bay, but they are losing their effectiveness. (had an epidural 2 weeks ago and the pain is coming back already. Last round lasted almost 6 months).

Went to see a surgeon last week and he immediately recommended a 2 level fusion. I suggested we slow down and do some more tests

so I'm scheduled for an EMG tomorrow.

I've already told the surgeon I'd be interested in ADR -- he doesn't do them, but he said he would refer me if I was interested.

Anyway, that's my story...

jim

**Justin** · 09-16-2009, 06:46 PM

Hi Jim,

Welcome to the Spine Patient Society!

I'm sorry to hear that you've had spine issues for the last 9 nine years.

However, it does sound like you have tried everything to help with your cervical issues. Being proactive and really looking into diagnostics and proposed interventions is the way to go without jumping into something your not truly comfortable with.

There are many knowledgeable Spine Patients here that are willing to help and answer questions. Most of us are here to find a "solution" to our spine problems and to restore our quality of life--the collective knowledge shared here at SPS and being supported by patients that "get it" is nothing short of incredible.

Good luck with the EMG tomorrow. I've had a couple in the past.

Please let me know if you need anything and feel free to make yourself at home.

**moorejames** · 09-16-2009, 07:15 PM

Thanks!

**New-disc** · 09-16-2009, 08:30 PM

....................

**daveinaustin** · 09-16-2009, 08:57 PM

Welcome to SPS, and good luck with the EMG!

-Dave

**KBear** · 09-16-2009, 10:09 PM

to the forum and so sorry you have to be here. Did the surgeon say exactly why he felt you needed a fusion? Was it degenerative disc disease? If so, my understanding is that if you have this, have done conservative treatment to no avail, then your only options are live with it or surgery. I could be wrong on this; but that is what I'm thinking. My doctor explained to me that since I had DDD, my disc was in essence 'dead' and would never/ could never heal, that all blood supply was gone. Hope your testing goes well and good luck finding answers!

**ajj1001** · 09-17-2009, 03:01 AM

Hello and

, let us know how you get on

alison x

**Dave** · 09-17-2009, 06:47 AM

Welcome Jim.

I had the same issues and went with 2-level ADR. I still need more work, but I am extremely happy with the results thus far.

Fire away with any questions you have.

**Cindylou** · 09-17-2009, 07:24 AM

Another big welcome Jim.

Glad you found us and I hope we can show you the support you are looking for. Good luck with the EMG. Let us know how it turns out.

**moorejames** · 09-17-2009, 10:15 AM

Originally Posted by Dave

Welcome Jim.

I had the same issues and went with 2-level ADR. I still need more work, but I am extremely happy with the results thus far.

Fire away with any questions you have.

I think I read your story -- Did you have it done in Michigan?

I'm not sure I'd feel comfortable having a Michigan doctor operate on this Buckeye neck