C3-C7 Severe bilateral foraminal stenosis
I have had neck issues for many years. They have grown to the point where I can no longer turn my head very much, tingling in fingers at times, loss of grip and hand strength, pain, and I have issues with balance. I had an MRI in 2020 that showed mild to moderate foraminal stenosis from C3-C7. My symptoms have gotten worse, and at the prompting of the surgeon who just fixed my torn bicep tendons, I had an MRI last week. The results showed I now have severe bilateral foraminal stenosis from C3 - C7. It also shows that I now have mild to moderate spinal canal stenosis from C3-C7.
I have also had two lumbar surgeries in the last 10 years that have left me with neuropathy and pain in my left leg and foot. But, my lower back pain is much improved so I am very happy.
I do not want to have surgery. So, I guess I have some questions, and I am looking for information. I have already been referred to a “neck” surgeon by my shoulder surgeon. First, is this serious to the point of needing surgery? Second, can this get better on its own? Third, are there options that can fix these issues other than surgery? Fourth, if I delay possible surgery, is there a possibility of permanent damage that could lead to limited use of my arms or hands, etc?
I appreciate any insights… thank you!
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@jet1024 Wow! Good for you getting your diabetes under control and loosing the extra weight. That is such a positive change !
Cervical spine problems can cause lower body symptoms and weaknesses. It sounds like you have had a lot of unexplained pain and your doctors assumed it was related to something , but they never did the detective work to find out.
You may want to make a list of questions to ask about how your symptoms may relate to findings on your imaging.