The MRI (aka modern day torture chamber) showed that I had a herniated disc in the C5/C6 cervical region. The doctor explained the three levels of herniation in a way I could relate to:The Hostess Cupcake
Your disc is like a hostess cupcake.First degree of herniation is a Bulging disc. The cupcake is compressed but the filling is still in tact. (See above photo)
Second degree of herniation is a Protruding disc. The cupcake is compressed and the filling is leaking throughout the cupcake but not busting out the sides.
Third degree of herniation is a Ruptured disc. The cupcake is compressed and the filling is busting out and leaking into your body cavity.
I've got a Level II Proturder. What does this mean?
No work. Physical therapy three times a week. And I get to hang out with my new best friends still. I see the doctor back in 10 days for another evaluation. If he doesn't see any improvement, I get a big ol needle full of cortisone in my neck. Worst place to put a needle right? NO WAIT! Strike that. Second worst place. Worst place is for sure the eyeball. Fire in the sky anyone?
If the shot doesn't work then he will send me for a surgical consult which will involve sedation and another MRI. Because surgeons won't read other doctors MRI's. They want their own.
At least I didn't have a level III. That would've meant surgery for sure. For now I'm gonna do everything I can to keep the filling inside my cupcake. My plan is to sit on the couch and eat. You know, take things nice and easy.
At least I didn't have a level III. That would've meant surgery for sure. For now I'm gonna do everything I can to keep the filling inside my cupcake. My plan is to sit on the couch and eat. You know, take things nice and easy.
6 comments:
How devastating! Is the WAP going to help protect the other flightliners from this happening to them? Will you ever be able to do it again? I hope your filling sucks back in soon! what a crappy thing to have happen to you.
I have been wondering how you're doing? Sorry that it's still causing you pain and having to go through more tests. I hope it gets better soon.
Oh no! I hope you get better soon :( I love the analogy BTW
I'm so sorry. Back/ neck trouble is awful. Both my mom & sister-in-law had herniated discs. My mom's got better with being very careful and rest but my sister-in-law had the surgery. I hope things improve quickly.
Ack, poor you! So lame, isn't it?! I sure hope you won't have to resort to surgery. And maybe you won't even have to get that nasty shot. But, you're right. At least it won't be in your eyeball. Eat some for me please!
I have worrying about you.Sorry about the cupcake trouble. Is your work insurance good? I hope they are being nice about it.
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