Slipped discs (slightly long)

[Aurora63]

Just a question...

Had a car accident, in which I was not at fault, about two months ago. At the time, I went to the hospital, and was found to have a broken sternum and strained neck muscles and ligaments.

Anyway, now my neck still hurts. It's not excruciating pain, but its uncomfortable on a daily basis. My dr. wants me to have an MRI, even though the initial xray was fine. He says there could be a slipped disc (herniated, whatever its called.)

The only reason I even hesitate is that I did not have health insurance a the time of the accident. My car insurance will pay 80% of the costs, but an MRI is very expensive, and 20% is still quite a bit. The other driver's insurance should pay for it, but the attorney said since I don't have a "life changing" injury (which I am very thankful for) we can't go after them for anything.

Anyway, my main concern is that I'll have an MRI, they'll find nothing, and the insurance will deem it unnecessary and not pay. Or, I don't have it, have trouble down the road, and have trouble with the insurance then.

In any case, like I said, my neck hurts, but its not real bad pain. Just stiffness and achy.

I could use an outside opinion on what to do. And, if you've had a herniated or slipped disc, how painful is it? Thanks.

 

[Ella2]

I've had a herniated disk. Typically the symptoms include pain, numbness and tingling in your extremities (arms for upper back, legs for lower back). It is QUITE painful at times, not just aches...it's a definite pain the runs down the nerve ending, for me into my foot. My hip and leg actually hurt more than my lower back when I had a herniated disk.

That said, x-rays DO NOT DETECT herniated disks! I went through months of pain and a horrible chiropractor before being properly diagnosed. If the pain is severe enough to limit your lifestyle I would find the funds necessary and get the MRI, if only for your peace of mind. From your symptoms, honestly, it does not sound like a herniated disk, but you really won't know without the MRI.

Good luck to you.

 

[LJC1861]

I agree with what the above poster said. I have been through this twice, both times needing surgery. You will feel numbness, tingling and pain that often intensifies when you move certain ways. The location and severity of the pain will depend on how badly the disc is herniated and where in your neck it is. For example.....discs at the C5-7 level usually affect your hands and arms.

X-ray will not show a herniated disc...only an MRI can do that. If your pain intensifies and you start having other symptoms go get that MRI.

For more information on back/nec/disc problems try this website--www.spineuniverse.com. It is full of great information and will tell you what to expect from all areas of treatment.

Good luck!

Linda

 

[Dan Murphy]

Just passing on my good wishes, Aurora.