Question
I am a 69 years old and my MRI shows that I have multilevel degenerative disc disease. The most serious part seems to be disc bulging exerting pressure on the thecal sac.,c-6,c-7.

My question is, can surgery be avoided? My  doctor is sending me to a neurosurgeon and she has told me to be very careful in my lifestyle so as not to make this condition worse. I cannot live in a bubble and have been leading a very active life. What can I do to ameliorate this situation?

Answer
Karen,

With the information given I cannot tell you if you can avoid surgery. As you explain there is multi-level degeneration with the worst area at C6-7 with a disc bulging into the thecal sac. Many people have this problem but have no symptoms. Degeneration and disc bulges don't always cause pain. So my question would be do you have symptoms? If not that is a positive.

I would need a good case history and imaging to know if it's not too late but it sounds like you are doing well when you say you have an active lifestyle. I have had cases similar in description to yours avoid surgery but it will take time and commitment to get well.

The problem most commonly originates from a previous injury to the head and neck which results in spinal compensations this being the cause. Now fast forward 10-20-30 years and due to those long term compensations creating areas of high stress throughout your spine (most commonly in the lower neck and lower back) you will find degeneration and bulging discs. Additional accidents and injuries over the years accelerate the process. If the old injury can still be corrected and then allow the body a chance to heal itself you may have a very good chance at avoiding surgery and still maintain and active lifestyle.

I would take surgery very seriously as you cannot undo a surgery. I would exhaust all conservative measures before considering surgery as a last resort. It would be a good idea to consult an Upper Cervical Doctor to see if you can still be helped. I would also recommend you consult your neurosurgeon as well and make an informed decision.  

Thank you for your question,


Dr. Grayson Blom, B.Sc., D.C.
Upper Cervical Chirorpactic Specialist
5975 Overland Rd.
Boise, Idaho 83709
(208) 559-0541

Visit us online at:
www.UpperCervicalCare.com
www.UpperCervicalHealthCentersBoise.com
www.DrGraysonBlom.com
www.UpperCervicalClinicsofIdaho.com