A discectomy may be possible. This is where they remove the disk with a little melon baller like tool. However, like with fusion it affects the biomechanics of the spine and often leads to problems down the road. Be sure to give it time and exhaust all options befor surgery...



They have been doing research on disk replacement however it is very new, unproven and (i think) only for the lumbar spine at this time! I don't think they are having the greatest results with these replacements..

There is also a proceder called idet which heats up the disk to try and shrink it. This has also not worked that great and I have only seen them done in the low back (not sure if they do neck yet)...

In maryland they are doing cervical disc replacement and have been successful. You may want to check your area.

Try taking dhea & a combined tablet twice a day of glucosamine & chondroitin (700-1000mg of each) these should help heal your back & reduce pain (they come recommended to me bya dr & by other people with back pain - i've just started so have no personal results yet.

1. Endoscopic spine surgery without fusion...Available in florida, california, and pittsburgh
2. Cervical coblation nucleoplasty available in numerous areas
3. Cervical home traction