Taking Evenity, Dr. recommended spinal fusion. Had this?

@annie1: Virginia Mason, Dr. Numani!

@annie1 At Lehigh Valley Health Network in Allentown, PA. Dr. Christopher Wagener.

@joelaurie1
How many levels? Do you have osteoporosis and what were your symptoms?

@joannecumming
Hello
As a third back surgery patient, since 1002; the outcomes depend upon the overall situation with your spine, discs, etc.; your health profile and activity; and the skill of your surgical team. And finally, luck. I have an otherwise decent spine alignment, no scoliosis, but congenital stenosis within the spinal canal. My first two surgeries eliminated pain 100% post recovery. My last outpatient surgery resulted in dull pain around my left hip, down leg, which is daily and takes 4-5 hours to resolve before I can stand up straight. I am getting a third MRI in 6 months, to rule in or out any organic condition. I'll go from there.

It is heartbreaking to hear about the disappointing results of many surgeries; and the painful conditions many patients have to deal with. use your common sense; get the best surgeon you can find, and ask him/her to be completely honest with you about the techniques used and probability of outcomes. Sometimes, one simply had to take the chance that surgery will help. Otherwise, there is misery.

By the way, I have tried PT and it only helps once all other means have been exhausted. It's a strategy for those for whom surgery is not an option, and to maintain strength and mobility.

Good luck to you.

@leeman25 There was a person from, I believe Virginia, who had suffered a great deal and had had terrible medical assistance. I would advise her or anyone in a similar circumstance to consider going to another city, or even state, for assistance. I know there is a big cost to swallow, but getting the right care is essential. I know the University of Washington in Seattle has some excellent pain specialists. Unfortunately I moved to Spokane Washinton from Seattle and the care here cannot hold a light to the excellent care I received in Seattle.

I agree with @leeman25 that it is heartbreaking to see what poor medical care some people have experienced.

@gaskell

Hello
Thanks for the feedback re: Spokane. I am recently looking at whether or not to move from Seattle, and Spokane was one of the options. I had read that care there is generally high quality with the medical centers they have. But, given my medical issues, although in basically good health, my sense is anywhere I would relocate to would have to have very good health care and access. Not impossible to find, but not everywhere...My neurosurgeon told me same.