I have 6 herniated discs in my lower back, and might have to have surgery, should I do it? or live with pain?

7 years ago, I let a friend rub my back because I had a back ache, the next day I could hardly walk from the pain I was in. It turns out she had herniated 1 discs in my lower back. I have had pain that has become chronic pain now for 7 years. I take alot of pain meds everyday because I have sooooo much pain, I can hardly move in the morning when I wake up. I just had another MRI done (7 years later, after the first) and found out that I now have 6 herniated discs. I suffer everyday and cant imagine living the rest of my life with this pain and the pain pills, so I have taken steps to learn to manage my pain better with classes in pain management. But that is not a cure all, and I wanted some feed back on back surgery. Thanks
Answer:
Hi Melissa,Sorry to learn about your pain.I am a senior citizen with multiple diseased discs and facets
and with a pinched nerve which destroyed the muscles in my left leg.It took 2 years to build it back up.My Neuorosurgeon says there is nothing he can do in the way of an operation.However he recommended a pain killer called Gabapentin(300mg),which I have used for over 3 years with great pain relief.However,I also still use a Therapist and Chiropractor on occassions if the disability gets worse.Like you the morning,when I arise ,is my worst time but as I move around it seems to lessen.At times I do not look forward to going to bed,but rest is also important.Suggested Web site to visit:http://www.medem.comSearch Articles in their Medical LibraryI don`t know if you have a weight problem,especially the waist,as that puts an extra strain on your backHope this helps!

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You need to go have the surgery to at least fix those discs. It may not totally take away the pain but if that is the case then see a pain management doc once you are healed from the surgery. Without the surgery I think you would end up in a wheel chair fairly soon do to the amount of damage you have.

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Well I also have back pain b/c of herniated discs in my lower back and know exactly what you are going through. I have had them for over 5 yrs. I have the option of surgery but would never do it only b/c my doctor told me there is a chance of being paralyzed for life. I am very scared of that. You know a lot of these doctors dont know what they are doing so it scares me. If you can trust your doc. then I say go for it only b/c I know the pain that you have. But if you are scared it is better to live with the pain in my book.

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If you do opt for surgery, ask your doctor if disc replacement is a viable option. The heal time and pain is less than if the discs are fused. Also, mobility is better afterwards. A friend of mine had the replacement done a couple of years ago. He still has some pain, but not nearly as bad as before the surgery. Good luck.

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