I have a ruptured disk at L5-6 and a bulge at S1 that puts pressure on the L5 nerve bilaterally.

Question

I have been on Darvocet and soma for years. It doesn't help the pain, but kind of makes me not care too much about it. I CAN NOT remember a time that I didn't hurt somewhere. I work half days as an orthodontic assistant, so I am bent over mouths all morning. I have had steroid injections and done double Medrol dose packs. Stronger meds make me nauseous even with Reglan or Phenergan. I really don't want surgery because then scar tissue will build up and i will have to keep getting cut. What should I do???? Any meds for pain that won't make me nauseated? That I can still function on? HELP!

Answer 1

What negative long-term, permanent effects on your body/brain will taking pain medications your entire life have? The only way to fix the problem is have the surgery. Make an educated decision.

Answer 2

Look into  the maverick disc.  I was part of the research study for maverick discs and had one put in 4 years ago. My L5/ S1 Disc was literally gone due to dengenerative disc disease. This artificial disc literally cured me from all pain. I have never heard anything about scar tissue. Not sure where you are getting that. Maverick disc is made by a company called Medtronic. The company paid for my surgery and have been EXCELLENT to me ever since. I can get in touch with their nursing staff at any time and they fly me to see my neurosurgeon ( because I have moved since surgery) once a year.. all expenses paid. Seriously, look into the Maverick. It will change your life!  I did the steroid thing too..a huge waste of time and money!! They go through your stomach and not your back for this surgery so it is less risky then normal back surgery as far as hitting your spinal chord. I would do it all over again if I had to. I didnt realize how bad my pain and quality of life was until I felt no pain!!!  In you need any more info or contact info email me and I will be glad to send you in the right direction. Don't be afraid. I was the youngest one in the country to do the surgery so it was kind of scary but now I can't imagine my life without it.  Also, go to back.com... there is lots of great info and discussion on that forum. Good Luck.. I hope you feel relief soon.