Hello Shawna!…Welcome to our chronic pain forum!
Were sorry to hear that you have been suffering for this long…but I'm not sure I know what the Segmental Fixation means. Fusion!…Yes!…I'm well aware of, as I had a double lumbar fusion back in 2010…but sadly I wound up with failed back syndrome, and continue to suffer moderate to severe pain on a daily basis.
Back surgery is a serious operation and should not be taken lightly, but it is really a personal choice and should be discussed with your surgeon, and really the question that should be asked is, what if the surgery is not done? I will share with you that corrective back surgery gives absolutely no guarantee that you will be pain free afterwards. I know several patients personally and also work with men and women that have had fusions, and continue to be in pain to this day.
Back surgery should be they very last resort in my opinion, however there is some caution to be shared, in that if you put it off too long, you may suffer permanent nerve damage or worse. So as you can see there is a lot to think about
. We always suggest at least a second opinion as well…so please make sure you consider this before making your decision to move forward.
I trust you have tried the nerve med's as well…like Gabapentin, Lyrica…and so forth?…also have you tried the Fentanyl patch? Epidurals? Everything?
We also want you to know that you are not alone when it come to chronic pain…we all understand it here. I hope you will consider this forum your chronic pain support home, as we would love to have you stay with us.
Take care, and feel free to share your questions, fears, and rants with us anytime.
SE
