Question
QUESTION: I have 2 herniated discs in my neck from an auto accident in august 2003.  I did physical therapy for a long time, repeatedly went to an orthopedic surgeon. I have had an MRI and and EMG a few years ago.  My herniated disc were close to pressing on the nerve and the EMG showed nerve damage in my arms and carpel tunnel in my wrists, and some nerve damage in my neck.  I have not seen the doctors for any treatment lately, because my lawsuit case got settled and my physical therapist said that my discs would never heel but exercise would help.  I have ever since been living with severe migraine headaches, they have increased from about once every few weeks, to one about every week and it lasts for several days even with medication.  I get a severe stiff neck along with the headache.  I have tingling in my hands alot, also a warming sensation and tingling in my neck that comes and goes.  I've noticed that the symptoms have gotten increasingly worse.  I was missing work alot, and know I'm out of work because I can't stand for long periods of time, I can't work on a computer too long, and those are priorities at my job.  I also had a fainting spell last weak that took me to the hospital, all they did was a ct scan on my head, and tested for anemia then sent me home.  Also, for some reason I have been very tired and nausea alot. I have also constant pain in my foot especially the heel, and after laying down for awhile or sitting for awhile I ache when I start moving.  I am going back to the orthopedic surgeon next week, but I was wondering what you think.  I don't know what to do, I've been out of work for 2 weeks now without pay because of this, I really need some sound advice and your opinion as to what you think is happening.

ANSWER: Did you indeed ever have any surgery done, and if so what was done?  
RADC

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: NO, surgery was never done yet.  In your opinion does it sound like I may possibly need it now?  They told me years ago that it might be needed in the future, that is why I'm going to the orthopedic surgeon this upcoming week to talk to him.  But does it sound like I need it.

Answer
No you probably do not need surgery.  The reason I was asking is because once you have surgery your chances of a full recovery are greatly diminished.  So it is actually going to be in your favor that you did not have surgery.  Your next step is to see an Upper Cervical Doctor of Chiropractic so that you can start healing up properly.  Discs do however take some time to heal so you will have to be patient but this is where your patience will pay off for you.  I can find someone good for you to visit if you can give me your town, state and nearest big city.  There is a possibility that you may have to travel some, but I will find you the closest one that is good and will help you to get well.
RADC