[Artificial Disc Replacement / Lumbar] Stenum Experience - Live From Bremen (Two Level Prestige LP Artificial Disc Replacement)

[trkdoc714]

From my understanding, BCBS covers cervical ADR but not lumbar. My wife was assured her BCBS would pay for her ADR if needed.

Bob

[melduforx]

So it's been a year (and two days) since I had my surgery. Ironically I had to take a business trip to Germany this week, so I'm in Berlin for the anniversary.

Here's my status: 1200 mg of Neurontin, 30 mg of Percoset, 12 mg of Zanaflex a day.

I found over the course of the year that as I got more active I was beginning to have more pain in my arms. I am renovating a house and whenever I do a lot of work where I have to bend my neck or use my arms, I pay for it in the evening. I've had times when my ring and pinky fingers will spasm and lock into place. The pain is greatest in my C6-7 nerve, bilaterally.

At this point I've had 5 cortisone injections which have not had any noticeable effect.

The good news is that the pain has plateaued. I knew going into the surgery that I was likely going to have a good amount of pain for the rest of my life. My surgeons and pain management docs warned me that the damage was severe and that full relief of pain was not likely.

I'm VERY HAPPY with the outcome. The good news is that I can do all the things I used to and not worry about causing any more damage. My current doc says that as long as I can live with the pain, to go ahead and do what I want. The pain isn't bad -- it goes from a dull ache to fairly noticeable, but I am able to control it very well with my current meds.

My pain management doc wants to get me off Neurontin and on to Lyrica, which I'm in the process of doing now. The Zanaflex is a new addition, and it's the only muscle relaxant that has actually done anything other than put me to sleep.

I wish the very best to everyone out there struggling with the pain and depression caused by these spine injuries. I am reminded on a daily basis what I have gone through, but in the end I am a very happy guy who can go on with his life.

[Justin]

melduforx,

Thanks for the update! I hope you are having fun in Germany!

I'm VERY HAPPY with the outcome. The good news is that I can do all the things I used to and not worry about causing any more damage. My current doc says that as long as I can live with the pain, to go ahead and do what I want. The pain isn't bad -- it goes from a dull ache to fairly noticeable, but I am able to control it very well with my current meds.

A big congratulations to you! Have fun renovating your house.

[Cindylou]

melduforx, that is good news! I am so happy for you and thanks for sharing that great piece of news with us. Good luck with the house remodel too. Exciting project! Cindylou

[Hooch]

Gday mate, it's a bugger you've still gotta take the meds, but it's great news you've got enough there to do things you love and go on with your life.

Thanks for taking the time to update, I reckon posts like yours are a great help to those researching their options pre-op.