[Jessica]

I am sorry to hear of your pain. Every doctor is different, but here are some things that I have learned over the years. I did find that enduring the pain without meds, made them think that my pain must not be that bad. A discogram was done on some of my disks and that showed them that they had tears and fissures, that was convincing to them as well.

I found it very helpful to be specific to my doctors about my limitations, more than my pain. I told them, when I get up in the morning I debate whether or not to take a shower because it will cause me extreme pain for the rest of the day if I wash and dry my hair.

I showed them that my arm shakes when I extend it and flex - this got their attention. I told them that there was not any job that I could imagine that I was capable of doing in my current condition.

I had surgery and a month later I was back to my job full time! I am not saying that is the answer for everybody, but it did help me significantly.

Best of luck.