I had a spinal fusion many, many years ago. Was due to broken vertebrae, but it was VERY difficult to diagnose. For whatever reason my bones are not photogenic, camera shy or something. Eventually, they found a break, got somebody to operate on it, and found a second vertebra that was also broken (only found during operation) that never appeared on many CT scans, x-rays, and even MRIs.

Fast forward to now. Starting 5 weeks ago, I started having major sciatica for the first time ever and it came on like gang busters in all different areas of my butt and legs. Had a CT scan and MRI. There are definitely some findings there, moderate foraminal stenosis, some canal stenosis, moderate arthropathy, some ligamentum flavum hypertrophy or some such (multiple levels, but corresponding very highly with where the fusion is and one level above), whatever ... but the only person I've been able to see so far is an ARNP (assistant to the spinal surgeon) and she seemed totally unconcerned with anything she saw in the CT scan and MRI, says I can have a shot of cortisone if I want.

I'm not only in MAJOR pain and severely restricted in my movement, but my back hurts like hades at the site of fusion and feels very unstable. Very difficult to even get through a work day and seems to still be deteriorating reasonably quickly.

I am TERRIFIED of going through the same two year ordeal of diagnosis and fighting with doctors I did 20 years ago. It was absolute torturous seventh level of H3!! to deal with physically, financially, and emotionally. Looks like it will take a few weeks at a bare minimum just to be able to meet with a spinal surgeon (or anybody smarter than the ARNP that wouldn't really listen and just barely moved over from pediatrics). I've called two OTHER spinal surgeons and they can't see me for a month at least just for a consult.

Here's my question: Does any of you know something really helpful that might help doctors to take me seriously, help get me treatment much more quickly, bypass all the "well, looks fine to me" B.S., and actually get somebody to freaking cut me open again and fix my back??

I am plenty assertive and persistent and willing to do **ANYTHING** that might actually help. I will build a shrine in honor of anybody who can offer meaningful help or insight and make a donation in your name to the Human Fund.

Obrigado!