Question
30 year old female - problem begun May 2011 - No pain in my back , pain in the back of the right thigh.
MRI: L5/S1 Slipped disc - moderate disc protrusion to the right with compression and displacement if the right S1 nerve root.
One doctor has suggested steroid injections and another doctor has said I should not have injections but decompression surgery as I am in the "window" for surgery? The doctor said if try injections first I am at risk of causing permanent damage to the nerve if they do not work.
Which doctor do I go with as I alway though surgery was the last option not the first?

Answer
Hello Lauren
Thank you for your important question. Wow, firstly I want you to know that my heart goes out to you for both - the pain you are experiencing in your thigh and secondly for the confusion you are experiencing. Your question regarding which doctor you should go with is important. The challenge I have is while you have included the written report of the MRI it would also be necessary for me to see the MRI as well as perform a thorough consultation as well as a comprehensive examination. Having said that, I would make it my business to find a doctor in your town who is an expert in NON surgical spinal decompression as well as is capable of performing class 4 laser therapy. Please have this doctor evaluate your case for candidacy. The reason I suggest this is that experience has shown that in many cases cortisone injections usually are only temporary measures and if used too often can also be dangerous. Of course surgery is some times necessary but it should only be considered if you are NOT a good candidate for NON surgical spinal decompression.

I hope this gives you something to think about.
I wish you luck in your pursuit of relief.

Can you please take a moment out to rate my answer and consider to rate me as volunteer of the month,
Thanks again Lauren and good luck,
Dr. Ron Nusbaum
CEO Back Clinics of Canada
www.backclinics.ca