I have had 3 M.R.I scans to date over the past several years due to my back problems which shows 2 degenerative discs in my lower back. I have tried with physiotherapy as well as core strengthening both of which has had no effect. I have had an epidural injection in Feb this year after having a month off work in October due to chronic back pain. My specialist which I've seen on prior occasions wanted to try this epidural again as opposed to surgery which I agreed even though it's only a temporary fix as I've had it before.
The consultant was leaning towards spinal fusion if it didn't work whereas I had read up on disc replacement surgery and as such the consultant referred me to Salford Royal on 9/1/16 to speak to a consultant there.
I received a letter from them on 20/1 to say I would have an appointment. My epidural was given on 24/2/16 which alleviated the lower back problems until 01/05 when it became really tight again in the morning until on 05/05 my back spasms arrived again and I was forced yet again to take tome off work. As yet I still hadn't received an appointment to Salford Royal so I made another call to the spinal unit to find I had been transferred to the neuro side. I was put through and given an appointment on 07/05. Finally I though I'm getting somewhere until I arrived and spoke the the Doctor who after looking at my M.R.I. Scan and asking a few questions told me its wear and tear nothing they can do surgery wise I need to go along with the epidural route even though this one
Asked just over 2 months before being laid up.
I have an active job of which since September I have had to take 6 weeks off due to this wear and tear. I don't know what you require to have surgery but surely if the 2 discs are badly worn and it's making such an impact on my work and life then something more permanent can and should be done as I've tried none surgical processes.
As you can imagine waiting 4 months for an appointment and after taking more time off work I was expecting more than "It's wear and tear nothing surgical we can do" this is really getting me down
"4 month wait"
About: Salford Royal Salford Royal Salford M6 8HD
Posted via nhs.uk
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