u/meatloafmagic44

An orthopedic doc ordered only a lumbar MRI and blamed my pain on my heavy weight (I lost 55 lbs before I saw that doc). I switched to a pain management specialist, who ordered full MRIs of thoracic and cervical, and today she followed up with me to explain my more severe stenosis areas (neuroforaminal stenosis and spinal stenosis), bulging discs, scoliosis, edema, etc.

I’m scheduled to start PT next month, and in the meantime they are trying to get insurance to approve a fast thoracic epidural. Hopeful about the PT over time, but I have this “doom” feeling I will need surgery. Wondering if I should push for surgery later this year while I’m still young enough to bounce back strong. Any input is appreciated!

Ps. Can yoga help me?

Final pic is a summarization of the MRI reports. Haven’t started PT yet, or any pain management, but I’m already wanting surgery. Any tips or heads up or any insight based on what I’m dealing with? Any treatments to pursue? Thank you!

New here. 40F. I have been in pain for a long time, and I’m scheduled to start physical therapy in June. Any tips or guidance on what to expect after? I found this out by leaving my dismissive orthopedic spine guy and went to a pain management specialist instead. Before the MRI, she informed me the course of treatment would likely be PT, followed by epidural. Is surgery worth consideration?

December (5 months) vs May (10 months). Bermuda is toasting nicely! Her tail and face triangle came pre-toasted.

Extension of her tail? No, just her face triangle.