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A member asked:
I am 46 w/ddd, prob from ra. pain fluctuates, but always numbness/pain/cold in legs. dr wants to fuse s1- l4. if i don't, what are likely consequences?
2 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
DDD is not RA: First, RA does not affect the lumbar spine to a significant degree. Cervical spine, yes. Lumbar, no. Consequences of not fusing is dependent on reason for fusion. If fusion elective, then only consequence would be continued pain. Not likely a risk of paralysis or death without surgery.
Answered 6/10/2014
5.1k views
Most likely remain: With the same symptoms but also a possibility of improvement with time as the degeneration is your body's attempt to correct a situation which does occur. There is also a chance that your symptoms may worsen but that does not prevent you from treatment in the future.
Answered 5/18/2013
5.1k views
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