I have three herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and osteoarthritis in my spine (as well as other places). I have read encouraging things about spinal decompression. Is it really as good as it sounds? What percentage of people get relief?

I am also currently seeking assistance from caring.com, but I need immediate responses. So, please suggest.

Thanks,
Amy

Hello Amy,

I had spinal decompression concerning spinal stenosis and herniated discs in the neck area. I had a c4-c7 laminetcomy. My operation was an emergency to stop further deterioration in my cervical myelopathy syptoms. There were no guarrantees re any improvement in my then situation but then stopping any further progression of the stenosis was very important to avoid any further damage. I can only comment on my personal experience where I didnt really have a choice in having the op and if I had not gone ahead I risked being totally paralysed instead of partial as I was at the point of the op. I should also point out I had the stenosis for some time before the op. Hope this helps. I think decompression is offered where it is thought to be necessary .

I am sure you can find many on here that have had decompressions and can offer you their opinions.

You do not say which discs are affected. I can only tell you that in 1993, I had a decompression operation operation to relieve pain from L5/S1. It was anticipated this would only give temporary relief and that was correct - about 6 months. However, I must emphasise two things: first, it was 16 years ago and methods may have progressed and second, it was done by an orthopaedic surgeon. As to the former, I cannot comment. For the latter, if I had any more problems, I would consult ONLY with a neurosurgeon. When I started my journey through the medical system in 1986, I was too ignorant to know that neurosurgeons dealt/deal with the whole nervous system, not, as I thought then, just with brain damage.

Sorry, I can't be of any more assistance but I do hope at least will consider obtaining an opinion from a neurosurgeon if you have not already done this