If you have both cervical and lumbar herniated discs, do surgeons prefer to operate on one area first over the other, or does it just depend?

In my case my cervical discs seem to cause the greatest problems and I would prefer they be addressed first. I have also read where the cervical surgery takes less time to recover from.

However, it seems that most individuals have the lumbar are operated on first. Inquiring minds (and painful necks and backs) want to know....

Hey Epi...

Thanks for posting. And I am not being a wise guy, but how have your spine doctors answered your question? How severe are your pain(s) and how long have they lasted? How are they impacting your quality of life?

Sure, we are "just a discussion board," but you will find that people care enough to ask more questions to provide helpful ideas (as compared to answers). We are lucky to be part of such a supportive and educated community.

We try to help you think through the problem to help you get to the next step -- so that you will hopefully have more fruitful conversations with your care providers!

PS: Please insert a signature (per the welcome email). This helps us help you.

I had both areas addressed at one time. It was a major surgery but I am a guy. We can handle anything http://adrsupport.org/groupee_common...on_biggrin.gif. Just kidding. Welcome to the forum. We will do all we can to help you in making your decision though you are the ultimate decider.

Take care. Hang in there.

Terry Newton