Question
My MRI concerns me i have herniation of t-8-t-9 disc with mild mass effect upon the cord.disc extrusions at c5-c6 left paracentral disc bulge atc6-c7. I have a lateral disc protrusion at L5-S1 with mild mass effect upon the exiting L5 nerve root and a grade 1 anterolisthesis of S1 relative to L5. disc bulge at L3-L4, L4-L5, LS-S1. C5-C6 body spurring that flattens the anterior thecal sac and straightening of the cervical lordosis. My insurance carrier is giving me a hard time about going to my own doctor, but the company doctor is not doing anything to help me I have considerable low back pain a cramping or tightening sensation on my left side middle of my chest by the rib area. Numbness in my left hand and left foot and terrible headaches that are daily in there occurance the accident happened on 11-08-08 and since then all they have done since I got out of the hospital on 11-10-08 is give me six physical therapy sessions which made my symptoms worse. I hardly sleep and I am suffering from depression because I cannot do the things I used to do. Any advice you can give would be greatly appreciated.


Thank You
Sam

Answer
Hi Sam,

Your MRI findings suggest significant injuries that may require surgery. 6 physical therapy sessions would definitely not be enough treatment for the injuries that you have sustained. You need to be referred to a Neurosurgeon and an Orthopedic surgeon to discuss surgical options. In the mean time you should be going for physical therapy at least 3 times a week for pain control using modalities such as electrical stimulation, heat/cold, exercises etc.. Conservative therapy (Chiropractic, Physiotherapy, Massage) is usually recommended before undergoing surgery.

You should tell the company doctor that you need to be referred to specialists to discuss your options for conservative therapy and surgical options.

I hope this helps!

Dr. Liza