@vivianne777 I know this information is a lot to unpack. I think from your earlier comment where you talked about your neurologist, that the indication was for cervical spinal fusion after removing the bad discs. This was what you said, "I have seen a neurologist yesterday. He states that the problem with my feet is not neuropathy, But it's connected to the cervical problem in my spine for which I probably need surgery.. However, I know it will be along recovery. And I will have to wear a cervical collar for 6 months. The surgery will be some kind of fusion."

This is the same surgery I had, and for me that was only one level, the disc between C5 and C6 was removed, and the spacer they put back in there was just a shaped donor bone disc. I stayed in a neck brace for 3 months as the bones healed, and did not have any spine hardware added to my spine.

You don't complain too much. This is your experience, and if doctors are not listening and are brushing you off, it is because they don't understand the connection to the cervical spinal stenosis that your neurologist described. If your doctors don't accept this finding, you need another opinion.

My suggestion is get copies on CD of any imaging you had on your spine, X=rays and MRIs and the reports that go with them. If you want to apply to Mayo (or anywhere else) for an appointment, they will request to see this information. There is no charge at Mayo to request an appointment and have them look at your imaging. When you become a patient there and have appointments, then insurance will need to pay. Mayo does take real Medicare, but not necessarily the "advantage plans".

I was very aware of how my spine changes were progressing because I kept a journal and I also diagrammed and dated the changes on drawings of the body. I noted what type of pain, where it was, and the position I was in such as laying down, seated, standing, etc. The spine changes position and that can change where pain is felt. If you have bowel or bladder difficulty, this can be because of cervical stenosis and that issue can become permanent if this is not addressed. Surgery that decompresses the spinal cord may solve a problem like that. These spine problems are tricky and doctors miss things. In my case, 5 surgeons got it wrong and I felt lost, but I am glad I advocated for myself and kept on looking for a good surgeon which I found at Mayo.

Here is my story.
https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/using-the-art-of-medicine-to-overcome-fear-of-surgery/
I'm here, so please post any questions you have and I will help. You can also retype information from medical records and I can help you understand it. Please make sure there is no personal information about you shared which is to protect your privacy. If you type the "@" symbol in front of my name on your post, I will automatically be notified of your response. Please stay in touch as you navigate through all of this. I know it can be confusing and distressing, and I'm here to help.

Jennifer