Resolved question:
I ran across your webpage offering second opinions.
I have a few questions in regards to the attached MRI. These questions of course are assuming you are comfortable with working with the body area I have questions on.
Starting last January 2013, I started to have some back and neck pain with no apparent injury nor an injury that I remember. I saw a chiropractor, believing it was the correct route to work with. After about 7-8 months went by I had really no major improvements, rather just relief of pain. My chiropractor encouraged me to get a physical therapy referral from my medical doctor, which I did and did eight weeks of physical therapy. After stopping the therapy, I had vast improvements and really no pain. A couple months went by and the pain came back. Finally this past week my chiropractor said enough is enough and ordered an MRI of my complete spine. I have attached this MRI report. Between my medical doctor and my chiropractor they don't seem concerned about my thoracic region, however my medical doctor shows concerns about the cervical region needing surgery and won't even try physical therapy even after previous success after reading the MRI report.
I guess my questions are: Is there actually something serious with the cervical spine area or could a route of therapy help again, or based off the report would it be harmful? Also is surgery immediately indicated?
I have no tingling, no numbness, no loss of feeling related to those areas in the cervical portion.
I guess I just wouldn't mind a second opinion looking at this.
Thank you,
Daniel Fruechte
Submitted:
4 Days
Category:
Spine Surgeon
Hello and thankyou for approaching DoctorSpring with your query.
I have gone through your case and understand your concern. I have taken a look at your MRI report an I don't think surgery is an absolute indication at present. Nothing is so bad that you have to get scared. You can definitely try another session of physical therapy.
Surgery is an option only if you fail conservative treatment. Surgery is not required as an emergency right now.
I hope this has answered your question.
Please feel free to follow up with further queries.
Thankyou.