Off to Utah

It always pays to get a second opinion, and then maybe a third or a fourth. After the startling news that the first neurosurgeon wanted to do a 4 disc laminectomy with a fusion I called a neurosurgeon that my physical therapist recommended. His evaluation couldn't have been any different, and much more thorough. Before making any recommendations he had me undergo an EMG which is shorthand for torture. Not, emphatically not, a fun experience, although I have to say that I've had one before and the doc that did this one was infinitely better. It was uncomfortable but I didn't leave thinking the man was a sadist with a MD. When I saw the neurosurgeon today he reiterated that he didn't think surgery was a good idea at all, apparently only 50% of neck surgeries result in less pain in the neck and since I don't have any pain in my legs and arm and the EMG's were normal so I don't have any nerve damage and the weakness in my left hand is much less in the past week.

So no surgery for me and I will be getting a third opinion but I have to jump through some hoops for that. And while waiting for the hoops to be put in order we will head out on what I feel is a well deserved vacation. So we are going to Salt Lake City then down to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. I might have nothing to post before then since work is kicking butt but I should have some fun stuff after.