The MRI went OK. Unlike the unit from years ago, this one was open on both ends. When I was a kid I suffered from some claustrophobia but I’ve gotten over most of it (but not all). This time my head was sticking out enough so that I can look out into the room (albeit with an upside down POV).
The exposure times with the new unit seemed shorter; I had to lie still on my back for only 4 or 5 minutes. In the “old days” the exposures were around half-an-hour, if I remember correctly.
The new unit was loud like the old one but didn’t sound the same, a different cacophony of noises during each exposure. During the second scan I thought an alarm had gone off and the machine was malfunctioning: it wasn’t the same banging sound I had heard before.
Didn’t notice any sensation in my fillings this time. Must be the new MRI has a magnetic field not as intense.
You can wear headphones during the scan to drown out some of the noise and also listen to a radio station. The tech attendant said one selection was radio station 99 FM. That station is known as The Buzz. During Xmas I would listen to it while in the mall to drown out the insufferable holiday music, earphones firmly in place. But I passed on it this time. I would feel buzzed enough after the MRI.
Today went to the doctor and discussed the results. Nothing new in that one of the discs in my back is still herniated. Other stuff going on; arthritis. Since the numbness doesn’t go away for any considerable time in my left leg, I might need surgery. Have to see a neurosurgeon to discuss that matter.
In the meantime I have to avoid prolonged periods of sitting and just limp along.
2 comments:
Bummer dude.
I'll tell you about my treatment for a similar issue.
After too much biking around Taiwan, I was crippled by a pinched sciatic nerve. Tried a bunch of stuff from electro-acupuncture to herbal poultices. None worked.
I painfully flew in the fetal position to Hong Kong. There my Uncle #4 hooked me up "Dr Gold", a specialist in acupressure massage. It took only a quick "feel" to pronounce a spinal misalignment. This guy had hands of steel. He quickly moved the offending disc back in position; it felt like he was stabbing me with his fingers.
20 minutes later, he told me to stand up. I did! I was a bit sore from his fingers digging into my spine, but no pain. In fact, I jogged to the corner 7-11 and bought a six-pack of Budweiser to celebrate. Tall-boys.
My back has never been the same; but awareness of the problem and efforts to strengthen my core have avoided recurrence for over 20 years.
Good luck with your recovery.
Thanks for the feedback. When I first glanced at your comment and saw "Dr. Gold," I thought I was getting spammed. Then I saw Dr. Gold was a person, not a product, and then noticed your name.
Luke
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