My last MRI - SuperiorMuscle.com

FrankTheTank55 · #1 02-03-08, 09:21 AM

About a year ago I was told that I have a compression fracture in my L-4 vertebra. Well its been really hurting alot more the last few weeks so I had another MRI done to make sure there wasnt anything new wrong. So when I made the appointment the lady asked if I weigh more than 350lbs. I guess that is to big to fit in the machine. So I go to the hospital and lay on the table and I didnt fit in and I only wiegh 252lbs. Made me feel pretty big..lol But I did end up squeezing in. I've never been clostaphobic but this time was really bad. They pushed me in head first and being so little room in the thing I almost freaked out. But I relaxed and everything was fine. Has anyone here every had back surgery? Alot of people are telling me not to have surgery but the doctors are saying I should. I would be off work for 3 months if I do. And I really dont want to have surgery, unless its really necessary.

Mr incredible · #2 02-03-08, 09:44 AM

well no I havent had surgery but I wouldn't be afraid, clearly if you can right something without surgery then fine, but spinal problems where the doc has said surgery is best I wouldn't think twice, get it done.

Tim Silvia UFC heavyweight champ had big surgery and went on fighting

**FitnessBrat** · #3 02-04-08, 05:58 AM

If I were you, I would start doing some serious research, get multiple opinions, etc. Back surgery statistics just aren't that great. MANY doctors say they would never have it. I think you need to weigh your pros and cons - like is NOT having the surgery damaging your spine (or anything else), are you in severe pain 24/7, have you ruled out all of your options, etc. I don't know exactly what is wrong with you, or what your symptoms are - but do you know if you're a candidate for a non-invasive procedure called VAX-D?

NYCmitch25 · #4 02-04-08, 06:52 AM

i tell ppl this all the time you have to remember its no different than taking your car to an auto mechanic they only make $$ if they can do the job.

i would say dont get it unless your in lots of pain, but do more research on your own. each persons case is different.

FrankTheTank55 · #5 02-04-08, 07:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FitnessBrat

If I were you, I would start doing some serious research, get multiple opinions, etc. Back surgery statistics just aren't that great. MANY doctors say they would never have it. I think you need to weigh your pros and cons - like is NOT having the surgery damaging your spine (or anything else), are you in severe pain 24/7, have you ruled out all of your options, etc. I don't know exactly what is wrong with you, or what your symptoms are - but do you know if you're a candidate for a non-invasive procedure called VAX-D?

I will check on that VAX-D. I will for sure look at all my options. I have had the pain for a few years and I sort of got used to it. But lately I have been paying close attenion to see how much the pain really is affecting my daily routine. Like giving the kids a bath last night was killing me. And then I rush them to finish because my back is hurting when they were having fun in the tub. Stuff like that I am paying more attention to. And I dont want to just take pain pills if there is a serious problem. But I will look at all my choices.

**FitnessBrat** · #6 02-04-08, 07:57 AM

Nah, you don't want to get into the whole painkiller game - the bottom line is, they don't work.

***THE BOUNCER*** · #7 02-04-08, 08:40 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FitnessBrat

Nah, you don't want to get into the whole painkiller game - the bottom line is, they don't work.

yep, they cover pain up temporarily but it is certainly not a long term treatment option.

**FitnessBrat** · #8 02-04-08, 09:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by THE BOUNCER

yep, they cover pain up temporarily but it is certainly not a long term treatment option.

Yes - in no time you need a stronger dose and before you know it you're a prescription drug addict and your still in the same pain you started out in.

Solstice106 · #9 02-04-08, 09:43 AM

I think it's good that you are really paying attention to how your back pain affects your life before you go through with surgery. I would also think about other options you might have to adjust your life to avoid pain. Like giving your kids a bath - is there someone else that could do it, would it help to have a chair in the bathroom by the tub? I would consider adjusting my life to avoid pain before having surgery. If you are in pain more than you aren't and there's nothing you can do to avoid painful situations, then consider surgery. I would also avoid the pain medications if possible.

alwaysgrowing · #10 02-05-08, 02:53 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FitnessBrat

If I were you, I would start doing some serious research, get multiple opinions, etc. Back surgery statistics just aren't that great. MANY doctors say they would never have it. I think you need to weigh your pros and cons - like is NOT having the surgery damaging your spine (or anything else), are you in severe pain 24/7, have you ruled out all of your options, etc. I don't know exactly what is wrong with you, or what your symptoms are - but do you know if you're a candidate for a non-invasive procedure called VAX-D?

I have known people who have used Vax D and they said it worked. But i believe that it does not help with fractures, which he says he has.

Wouldn't a fracture heal on its own though with rest?