Constant Pain with NO Answers

@gbbydad
If you didn’t have an actual HIDA scan (different from ultrasound) of your gallbladder function, you may want to look into this. HIDA scan checks function while ultrasound measures organs and can see physical abnormalities.

@gbbydad
I saw a neurologist who did an EMG/nerve conduction study and neuropathy bloodwork plus sent me for MRIs (primary doctor also had me get MRIs).

If you are claustrophobic, here are some things you can do to get the imaging you may need.

Imaging Options for Claustrophobic Patients

For individuals who experience claustrophobia, traditional imaging methods like MRI can be particularly challenging. Fortunately, there are several alternatives and modifications available that can help ease anxiety while still providing necessary diagnostic information.
Imaging Alternatives

IMAGING METHOD DESCRIPTION PROS CONS
Open MRI A modified MRI machine that is open on the sides, reducing feelings of confinement. - Less claustrophobic- More light and air- Easier access for larger patients - Lower image resolution compared to closed MRI- May not be suitable for all diagnostic needs
Upright MRI A machine that allows patients to sit upright during the scan. - Reduces feelings of confinement- Can be more comfortable for some patients - Limited availability- May not provide as detailed images as traditional MRI
CT Scan A computed tomography scan that uses X-rays to create detailed images. - Faster than MRI- No enclosed space- Good for bony structures - Involves radiation exposure- Less effective for soft tissue imaging
Ultrasound Uses sound waves to create images of soft tissues. - Non-invasive- No claustrophobia issues- No radiation exposure - Limited in imaging depth- Not commonly used for spine imaging
Sedation Options Use of sedatives to help patients relax during the procedure. - Can help manage severe anxiety- Allows for traditional imaging methods - Requires monitoring- May have additional costs and risks
Considerations for Patients

Discuss with Your Doctor: Always inform your healthcare provider about your claustrophobia. They can help you explore the best imaging options tailored to your needs.
Visit the Facility: If possible, tour the imaging facility beforehand. Familiarizing yourself with the environment can help reduce anxiety.
Bring Support: Having a friend or family member accompany you can provide emotional support and help ease your fears.
Music and Relaxation Techniques: Many facilities offer music during the procedure. Listening to calming music or practicing deep breathing can help manage anxiety.
Consider Sedation: If other options are insufficient, discuss the possibility of sedation with your doctor. This can help you remain calm during the procedure.
Feet-First Entry: Ask if you can enter the MRI machine feet first. This small adjustment can make the experience feel less confining.
By exploring these options and strategies, patients with claustrophobia can find a suitable imaging method that meets their diagnostic needs while minimizing discomfort and anxiety.

Thank you for your candid comments on what you have been going through. My experience has been similar to yours except that I have had hardware put in C2-C3 and after having gone through nearly 2 years of rehab, stemcell injections and numerous Physical Therapy sessions with no improvement in pain levels. I have stopped taking harsh medications and occasionally take Tylenol PM to help relieve the pain to be able to sleep. I would like to hear more about the outcomes you have received at Mayo!
Thank you,
Raymond

Chronic pain has become a BIG BEAUTIFUL business. Sadly there is no universal cure.

@rleloup234
How long ago did you have your decompression/fusion surgery on c2-c3? Are your symptoms and pain different after surgery than before surgery? Was your spinal cord compressed as well as your nerve roots?

Have you had an updated MRI after surgery and more recently to narrow down the source of your pain? Did you get an injury during surgery or is the pain new compression? Do you have any numbness/weakness in your shoulders, arms, and/or hands? Is your pain only in your neck/shoulders?

It's a long shot, but my best friend for many many years had the same problem as you WITH EXTREME PAIN in the same area.

The doctor had no idea what caused it.

We had been cutting trees a month earlier at his cabin and I suggested to check for Lyme Disease (Boreliosis)

His Doctor said none of the symptoms match Lyme but my friend insisted on being tested.

As soon as the test results came back, the doctor called: YOU TESTED
POSITIVE,
I have never seen anything like it.

He was treated for Lyme which was not easy.

But that's another story.

If you live in a concrete city or part of the world where lyme is not present, it's unlikely that you need to be checked for Lyme.

@rleloup234

Before my first ACDF surgery on c5-c6 (with hardware) in 2022, I had daily headaches, neck and shoulder pain/knots, tinnitus, arm/hand weakness and numbness, bladder control issues, difficulty walking (heaviness in legs), and balance issues. Most symptoms improved but I have residual balance issues and arm/hand weakness (my spinal cord was being compressed/injured for over 5 years due to misdiagnosis). My balance worsened and I had a return of bladder control issues and arm/hand numbness (plus had bilateral carpal tunnel) so I had the 2025 ACDF surgery on c6-c7. These symptoms reduced. With both surgeries and hardware, I only took pain medication after surgery for a week or two and now use extra strength Tylenol for pain (can’t use NSAIDs due to gastritis/esophagitis). I really haven’t done physical therapy but I’m sure I would benefit from strengthening deconditioned muscles.

Your extended period of pain following cervical spine surgery is concerning. Did they need to cut from the back of the neck? That may be why you have more pain if they needed to cut through muscles in the back of your neck to get to your spine. What has your surgeon said about the reasons for your pain post surgery?

Until you get an EGD I would recommend caution with the ibuprofen. It can cause ulcers and irritation in the stomach

I will check for Lyme, I live in a wooded area.

I will recommend you use IGeneX for the testing.
The "normally used test methods for Lyme are like flipping a coin" and a waste of time and money.