[Celebrator]

I have had compressed disks for numerous years and the pain has recently had gotten worse. However, I can still golf twice a week although uncomfortable and sometimes sharp pain. Painkillers and several epidurals have not helped. A neurosurgeon has suggested getting a laminectomy which I am considering but am concerned that I could be worse off after surgery and perhaps should just be happy to be able to golf even with some pain. I am in relatively good health for my age (late 70's).

If you have had this surgery, I would appreciate any comments and/or suggestions.
Thanks

[retiredguy123]

Originally Posted by Celebrator

I have had compressed disks for numerous years and the pain has recently had gotten worse. However, I can still golf twice a week although uncomfortable and sometimes sharp pain. Painkillers and several epidurals have not helped. A neurosurgeon has suggested getting a laminectomy which I am considering but am concerned that I could be worse off after surgery and perhaps should just be happy to be able to golf even with some pain. I am in relatively good health for my age (late 70's).

If you have had this surgery, I would appreciate any comments and/or suggestions.
Thanks

I had it done about 30 years ago. My pain went away, but I am not sure the surgery was the reason. But, if the MRI shows a disc pressing on the sciatic nerve, I would have the surgery. Epidurals are a waste of time. Chiropractic stretching of the spine is also a waste of time. My opinion.

[ditka41]

I am 80 years old now and had "LAMINECTOMY AND FUSION" surgery in 1995. It involved three discs in lower lumbar. Could not even stand still for more than a few minutes at a time without much pain shooting down back of thigh to knee. Most helpful thing ever done to me! I will always be grateful for the procedure and surgeon in Illinois.
Recovery was complete within 2 months and I am playing golf 2-3 times per week now. If your injections have not brought lasting relief, I would highly recommend having it done. I would imagine that procedures have been improved since then and results may be even better, especially in the recovery time. Good luck to you.

[DAVES]

Originally Posted by Celebrator

I have had compressed disks for numerous years and the pain has recently had gotten worse. However, I can still golf twice a week although uncomfortable and sometimes sharp pain. Painkillers and several epidurals have not helped. A neurosurgeon has suggested getting a laminectomy which I am considering but am concerned that I could be worse off after surgery and perhaps should just be happy to be able to golf even with some pain. I am in relatively good health for my age (late 70's).

If you have had this surgery, I would appreciate any comments and/or suggestions.
Thanks

My OPINION. Asking here? I would get a second opinion from A DOCTOR. A doctor who can see your records, history etc. Back surgery has a high failure rate.

My doctor-I pointed out that Ponce De Leon discovered Florida-looking for the fountain of youth. A cruel joke you need to be over 55 to live in the villages. One disc? Unless it is the result of an injury, fall, car crash etc, it is all the same age.

[billethkid]

I suggest if you pursue the surgery option(s) consider using a neurosurgeon.

Very focused on the structure of the spine and nerve involvement.

After trying physical therapy and spine injections...with minimal relief and recurring pain (lumbar spine). My orthopedic suggested laminectomy....I went to a neurosurgeon for a second opinion. He suggested spinal fusion L4, L5 and S1. Which I had done. Post surgery, immediate pain relief and now 6 years hence still no pain. No loss of any mobility or ability.

All a function of one's specific needs.....and the surgeon's ability.

Take the time to make an informed decision.

Good luck.