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Suggest Treatment For Disc Degenerative Disease

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Posted on Thu, 19 Mar 2015
Question: I have a disease called disc degenerated disease, I have 5 herniated discs in my lower back, I believe it's my L4 and L5. plus I have a few bulging discs. would you recommend surgery?
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Answered by Dr. Kathy Robinson (19 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
depends upon pain and nerve impingement

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thank you for your question.
The decision about surgery depends upon the severity of the herniation of the discs, the amount of pain you are having and the degree of nerve impingement. If the bulging or herniated discs are pressing on nerves then surgery is probably the best option because permanent nerve damage or paralysis can result if the discs continue to press on the nerves.
It is best to talk to your surgeon carefully and ask him/her if you are at risk for permanent damage if you do not have surgery.
If the surgeon feels that a surgical repair could prevent permanent damage then it would be a good idea for you to have the surgery.
Regards,
Dr Robinson
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Pradeep Vitta
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Answered by
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Dr. Kathy Robinson

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :1989

Answered : 3535 Questions

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Suggest Treatment For Disc Degenerative Disease

Brief Answer: depends upon pain and nerve impingement Detailed Answer: Hello and thank you for your question. The decision about surgery depends upon the severity of the herniation of the discs, the amount of pain you are having and the degree of nerve impingement. If the bulging or herniated discs are pressing on nerves then surgery is probably the best option because permanent nerve damage or paralysis can result if the discs continue to press on the nerves. It is best to talk to your surgeon carefully and ask him/her if you are at risk for permanent damage if you do not have surgery. If the surgeon feels that a surgical repair could prevent permanent damage then it would be a good idea for you to have the surgery. Regards, Dr Robinson