Procedure: Spinal Fusion

What was your initial medical issue?

Neck pain from a motor vehicle accident.

What did this issue prevent you doing?

I was originally in school to be a paramedic, I had to drop out because I couldn’t meet the lifting requirements because of the pain and reduced range of motion.

What made you decide to do something about your problem?

After almost a year being treated at a different medical group and seeing my symptoms worsening I decided to seek a second opinion.

Why did you choose Dr. Sinicropi?

I was referred to Midwest Spine & Brain Institute and Dr. Sinicropi by my lawyer whose family are patients of Dr. Sinicropi’s. I knew that if my lawyer trusted Dr. Sinicropi enough to treat his family then I would be in good hands.

What treatment/procedure did you have done?

Dr. Sinicropi reviewed the MRI I had done at the previous medical group, which they said was normal, and determined I had 2 bulging discs. A discogram confirmed that the source of my pain was due to the herniated disc. After all was said and done I ended up having a spinal fusion at c5-c7 in January 2015.

How did you feel after treatment?

I feel like a new person, as corny as that sounds. Before my accident I led a very active lifestyle biking, swimming, and taking weekly boxing and yoga classes. After my accident, I couldn’t do much of that and ended up gaining a significant amount of weight because of my new stagnant lifestyle. I have finally been able to start working out again which has led to me losing some weight and overall feeling much happier.

What advice would you give other patients in a similar situation to you?

Take a proactive role in your healthcare. Ask questions. If you don’t understand something talk with your doctor until you do. Be thorough in your explanation of symptoms. Doctors aren’t mind readers so they can’t treat what they don’t know is bothering you. And above all you are your #1 advocate.