Welcome to Spine-Health.

I'd have to assume that you'll be getting an Epidural Spinal Injection (ESI) and I can't tell you what to expect because I'm having my first one for my lumbar spine next week. I was told that I'd be sedated also.

What kind of pain do you have in your legs? I never had leg problems with my cervical spine issues, but have plenty with my lumbar issues. However, I've seen others here post that they had leg problems that were associated with their neck pain.

Again, welcome to Spine-Health.
Cath

If I had a dime for every time I heard someone say that they don't get a lot of direction from their doctor I'd be a rich woman.

One of the things that I've learned (along with a lot of other people) is that you have to have a doctor that you trust, that communicates with you, that you can build a relationship with; one that listens AND hears you, helps you find the right road to travel and one that talk to you.

How long have you been going to this doctor? Is this diagnosis from an MRI? What type of symptoms are you having?

Please tell us more about yourself and we'll be able to help you much better.

It's nice to meet you and I look forward to reading more about what's happening with you.
Cath

Cath:

My diagnosis was with an MRI. I have been seeing this doctor for about 7 months. I went through a round of physical therapy with no relief. I generally see the PA. Since I have been going there has been three differnts PA's. The PA said it is her opinion I do not need surgery. She is new to the country from the UK. I just feel so frustrated not know how I can get relief for my neck and so that is why she recommended pain management. Also I asked her about my legs and she said there could not be from my neck. My legs throbbed no matter what I am doing. I also recently started having spasms in my legs. I just want to feel good again. This is probably the best thing I have done is talking to people who understand. Cath thank you very much for all of you responses:) I so appreciate it.

I'd really suggest getting a second opinion from a surgeon who specializes in spinal issues. If this one is, you might want to find another because it doesn't sound like this doc (PA) is making you feel comfortable with what's going on.

My surgeon is orthopaedic, but he has a fellowship in spine surgery. He and his PAs always take the time to answer my questions, go through the options, and what I can expect in the future. Just because they're surgeons DOES NOT mean that they don't try conservative measures first.

Be sure to let us know what you decide. I hope you can find someone that you can really trust and rely on.
Cath

Cath:

I believe in conservative measures first. I hope that the injection will help. Thank you for taking the time to speak with me. I do believe my doctor creditials are top notch that is why I picked him. I just would like to spend more time with him not the pa.

Cath:

I believe in conservative measures first. I hope that the injection will help. Thank you for taking the time to speak with me. I do believe my doctor creditials are top notch that is why I picked him. I just would like to spend more time with him not the pa.

You can have issues with your legs due to cervical spine problems. Either the PA doesn't know that, or there is more information she has that we don't here that shows that it's unlikely caused by your cervical disc problems. You should ask your primary for a referral to a neurosurgeon or orthopedic specialist to go over your MRIs again, as a second opinion. This doctor might be able to give you more answers at least. You could also mention your leg problems to your primary and maybe he or she could run some tests or refer you to another doctor to find out what's going on there.