Saw the neurosurgeon today

Hi everyone, Today I saw the neurosurgeon.  I really liked him.  He gave me two options to treat my herniated disc.  He said he could do surgery right away and I would probably be back at work in 4-6 weeks or I could do a series of epidural steroid injections and  intensive (daily) physical therapy and if it worked, I could be back to work in 5-6 weeks.  But, if the injections don't work, then I would have to have surgery and add 4-6 weeks to my time off work.  He didn't pressure me either way. He did tell me that he had this same problem 8 years ago, and he opted for the steroid injections and he has had no problems since.  Since I am not anxious for more surgery of any kind, I opted for the injections.  I start PT tomorrow and my first steroid injection is Tuesday.  The little hospital I used to work for here in Sevierville is not set up to treat cervical herniated discs so I will have to go to Knoxville. But, I am sure it will be worth it.  I have been dealing with a little depression over this, but I am trying to work through it.  I can't help but feel like I have done all this (RNY) to get healthy and then, I still have health problems!! Like I said though, I am trying very hard to be upbeat and talk myself through this. Marilyn

Good Morning Marilyn! You will be fine!  One of my favorite aunts, "Yoda" is going through the shots and PT right now for her herniated disk and is responding well.  You will be in our thoughts and prayers.  I passed on your well wishes to Shelia last night and she really appreciated them.   Have a great and Blessed day. Beth

Marilyn, This post is being sent on behalf of Shelia and she says to tell you, "Get better, don't worry about your RNY and bad health.  It's all in God's time and you can are at a place where you can probably handle this better now and recovery even faster."  She sends her love and prayers (along with a dose of morphine - LOL) and thanks you for your prayers and well wishes.

Marilyn, I understand your decision and probably would have done the same thing too.  You are a strong woman with an even stronger faith and trust in God.  Because of that, I know you will get through this and be healthy in no time at all.  Know you are in my prayers and please keep us updated and let us know how things are going for you.  I hope you have a wonderful weekend. Take care and consider yourself hugged today!

I went through the steroid injections and it was great. I also do most of my exercise in the water. May God bless you throughout your process.

Marilyn, you hang in there. Glad you feel comfortable with the Dr. that helps. I will be praying for you during all of this, hopefully this will help you with your pain. Cheryl

Marilyn,
You are in my thoughts and in my prayers....being a nurse is very hard on our bodies...I rupsured 3 disks in the past while working in the hospital and then in home health. I did not have to have surgery after having the steroid injections and PT...PT was wonderful, it felt so good to have pain relief! You hang in there and God will take care of this for you!
Keep me posted on your progress.
HUGS
Betsy

Marilyn Don't know how I missed this post!  Anyway, I'm glad you were given some answers and some options.  which ever path you take, please know you will be in our thoughts and prayers! Scott