I Had a MRI done and the results. L5 S1 There is disc desiccation with mild disc pace loss. One doctor wants to continue to do steroid injections and the other doctor recommends surgery. What to do?

Answer 1

How much pain are you in? Does this condition really bother you presently? If not, delay surgery as long as possible and continue on with the steroid injections. A great way to deal with minor back pain issues due to disc loss or herniation is to exercise, eat well and lose weight. People who strengthen their abdominal muscles through exercise, lose weight, and become healthier, usually see their Back pain all but disappear. The abdominal muscles act as a support for the lower back, so as they become stronger, it allows the lower back to relax more, and promotes better posture, which also helps with spinal issues. Just be aware, as more disc is lost, the closer the vertebral bodies will become therefore resulting in possible spinal cord/nerve root compression which leads to pain. After enough disc loss, surgery will become inevitable as you will need to correct the deformity. This is done by performing a lumbar fusion using a combination of pedicle screws, rods, and some type of inter vertebral distraction device (such as a cage, bone, etc.) So, do what you can do avoid surgery for as long as possible, and if it becomes inevitable, please see a qualified spine specialist for the operation, such as a Neurosurgeon.