[Mary1989]

Originally posted by Harrison:
Mary, welcome to our global community. At such a young age, I am sorry to hear about your lumbar problems. And thanks for sharing information about the plasma disc decompression, a newer “spin” on an old technique of microdiscectomies. Here’s one company’s approach (no pun intended).

Thanks for the warm welcome.

That's the company that provided the machine for my plasma disc decompression. Very informative and helpful website.

I am wondering about your diagnosis as a result from “genes.” Did they say it was inherited because you were “too young” to have a problem like this? Here are a few things worth considering:

- there are many factors that cause DDD. My belief is the causes are multifactorial, e.g. pathogens, stress, trauma, heredity, diet, etc.

- more and more patients on this forum are “younger.” So we all need MUCH more information why this is happening to so many people of ALL ages. That's why I started the non-profit!

I am adopted, so very little is known about my medical history. Honestly, I was your typical high schooler. Not a lot of stress besides familial issues, my diet and weight were consistent and proper, and I had no spine trauma. My worst injury was a sprained ankle, which I had surgery on two years ago. According to my doctors, there was absolutely no reason for this to pop up in me other than genes.

To answer your question, many patients who come to this site prefer not to fuse their spinal segments. That’s what arthroplasty is all about – preserving motion that should be there when you need it!

That's EXACTLY what draws me to this surgery. I don't want fusion because I am young, and fusion tends to lead to instability in other discs. However, at the same time, there are equally serious drawbacks to ADR. The surgical approach, slipping of the prosthesis, etc. My other huge concern is insurance.

At such a young age, I would wonder about underlying pathologies that might be contributing to your lumbar problem. But before I go down this complex path, can you tell us more about any injuries you might have sustained? What other diagnostic procedures have you had?

The only diagnostic procedures that I've had are the typical MRIs and X-Rays, plus a discogram. And like I said earlier, I've never had any problems with my back. I've always been careful to lift with my legs and such, and no sports injuries. I hope that helps.