So, went to the Dr. today...
 

A few years ago (2011) I mentioned that my back is pretty jacked up, I went and had an MRI back then and they found that the lower 3 discs are basically gone, did chiropractic stuff, injections and have been managing the pain for the last 3 years, starting to get shooting pain and numbness in my left leg.

Dr. looked at my old MRI and thinks I must be some sort of superman because my back was screwed in 11' he can only imaging what it's like now. Nothing else for me left to try to fix it other than cut in there and fuse it all up, so I am thinking about that at the moment.

Only 3 mos. of down time from the surgery, so we'll see.

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

Sending some prayers your way, Mike.

If it helps ease your mind: My 86 year old grandfather just had a similar surgery yesterday morning. He even had the numbness/tingling too. He had broken a vertebra about a year ago, and was getting progressively worse. They were able to successfully release the nerve and fuse 3 vertebra together.

If they can fix him, a young dude like you should be a walk in the park! You got this. :tu

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

I have been going through back issues as well - injections and the like. Doctor has suggested fusing and I have to admit, it scares me...

Thoughts and prayers for you, Mike!

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

Same to you brother.

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

Thanks Peter

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

Mike,
Hope the back improves. Hang in there - that surgery likely will fix what you need. Had a friend who was an Orthopedic surgeon and he said there wasn't much he couldn't fix with back surgery as long as the problem was not a nerve issue. You'll probably not be playing twister too much or swinging from the chandelier, but you will be able to fish, enjoy cigars and drink nice beers with the best of 'em! :D

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

Same Issues As You For Me, Mike, Except No Shooting Leg Pain. With The Leg Pain, I Would Have Some Type Of Surgery. I Would Recommend A Neurosurgeon, Also, To Do The Procedure. Thoughts & Prayers Headed Your Way, Brother!:tu

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

Ya buddy, if I do it now it's basically free since we are double covered with insurance, then I will be good to go when I come to Fl. :tu

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

Years of construction, hard living, heavy lifting and 17 years with 20 lbs of gear on your waist takes it's toll I guess.

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

Prayers sent, Mike.

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

Best wishes to you!

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

Mike, have a buddy who had his back fused a few years ago. If you want, I could hook you up via email if you have questions.

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

It's my bread and butter Mike. It really depends on the extent of surgery and how disabling the symptoms are.
Get a decent opinion from a prominent academic spine surgeon.

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

Will do, thanks!

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

Mike, you're in my thoughts. Similar issues with my cervical spine, I basically make Franenstein's neck look flexible. I pray that the surgery will give you an improved quality of life, as that is what matters, My Friend.

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

Prayers going your way! Back pain is a horrible thing to endure especially when it radiates to other parts of the body.

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

Ouch! Will keep you in my prayers, bro! Cannot even imagine what you are going through.

Peace of the Lord be with you.

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

Sorry to hear Mike, nothing worse than back pain.......thoughts bro

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

Take care of that back brother...sucks trying to fish with a busted one. My dad put off back surgery for a year so he didn't miss trout season, but then again, he was a stubborn bad a$$. ;)

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

Positive thoughts coming your way from the West coast Mike.

Are the doctors going to run a new MRI and use your 2011 as a benchmark to see where your spine is currently at? A second opinion always helps, and shouldn't hurt the feelings of the first MD. As Peter mentioned above, make sure you select a top notch Orthopod for this type of surgery.

I'm sure your department will be working closely with you during your time off in recovery post-op and any PT.

Do you think this type of surgery will take you out of patrol and place you more in the desk area?

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

My back is fused, Mike. Hurts like hell every day, all the way to my toes.
They did it 6 years ago and I'm seeing a neurosurgeaon at Cleveland Clinic right now.
My hope is to get it ironed out and get the rods and screws removed.

Mind ya, I smashed my back up in an accident, it wasn't just wear and tear.
They'll tell you surgery may be an improvement, but you have to temper your expectations.
Mine got better, for sure. But only enough better that I can stand it. I have to baby it and ice it and take lots of anti-inflammatories and muscle relaxers to keep it under control.

Point being, read up on it a lot so you know what to expect.
That way when it's all said and done you'll be prepared to take care of it. :tu

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

Thanks Scott!

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

Best of luck to ya bro, I'm thinking about seeing a specialist myself for my sciatica. Pain is minor but I'm getting sensation down my leg. Chiropractor really didn't help much, so it's about time to see a real doc.

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

Good luck bro, may want to look into injections also if the pain is not too bad.

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

Good luck Mike. As others have said don't hesitate to get a second or third opinion. You might want to look for a doc that works on athletes.:2 Had one work on my knee. It ended very well. Prayer sent for you no matter whether you decide to fuse or not. I wish you well.

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

Prayers sent for you, Mike.

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

A colleague of mine had the exact same symptoms as you. Rather than spinal fusion surgery, it might be worth while to inquire about having a spinal cord stimulator implanted.

He endured 3 spinal fusions over about 5 years starting at L5 and ending at L2 (Discs leaking fluid). The fusions dealt with the leaky discs, but the pain shooting down his leg remained. These surgeries are quite invasive, and he was left with scar tissue interfering with his spinal cord.

This past fall, he had a spinal cord stimulator implanted and has had a reduction of about 60% in pain.

The stimulator is far less invasive than the fusion. It may be an alternate option to consider.

I wish you good luck and a healthy outcome!

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

Hey might nothing but good vibes and the best of thoughts!

Wait does this affect our chips.. oh wait you sent those already, ok all good here. :D :sl

Seriously though, hope you get some good news my friend!

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

Thanks guys, I watched a video of the surgery, I don't think I am to that point yet!!

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

Best thoughts and prayers to you Mike. Back pain is the worst. Sorry for your pain.

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

Do you stretch your back and lower body daily? Muscle tension contributes to back pain immensely.

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

I watched a video, too. It was gross. Gaack.

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

Yes, I think I am also going to buy an inversion table :tu

Re: So, went to the Dr. today...
 

Ya Scott, don't think I am down with that until I have exhausted all options.