"Do I need surgery ?" This is a common question I am asked after someone gets in a auto accident. Sometimes the pain is so severe that a person believes that the only solution is a surgical one. In the case of a disc bulge/protrusion/herniation after a auto accident, it is important to do a few actions. First, depending on what you find on the physical exam, it will warrant if advanced testing is necessary. MRI, CT scan, x-rays, EMG, NCV? These tests will help the doctor render a diagnosis, prognosis and treatment plan. If the tests are negative, or, the tests are abnormal but the patient is not a surgical candidate, then treatment for the patients' condition can start. If the tests are abnormal and the patient may be a surgical candidate, the primary doctor on the auto accident will refer to the appropriate doctor for an evaluation. Pending that evaluation, it will confirm or not confirm the need for surgery. If surgery is needed, the procedure will be performed. When the surgeon evaluates the patient and determines that rehabilitation can start, then the patient resumes treatment with the primary treating doctor from the auto accident. Many times recovery after a auto accident that requires surgery can take several months until the patient achieves maximum medical improvement.
Patients should feel that they can come to the Auto Accident Pain Relief Center of Illinois and know that they will get a proper work-up to determine the course of care that should be taken. If referral for testing or surgery is needed, we have a network of doctors form all disciplines that can get you better. If you have been involved in a auto accident and are experiencing neck pain, headaches, numbness and tingling in the arms or legs, blurred vision, ringing in the ears, neck pain, shoulder pain, mid-back pain or leg pain, and live in the Chicagoland area like, Elmhurst, Villa Park, Lombard, Stone Park, Melrose Park, Berkeley, Oak Brook, Northlake, Bensenville, Bellwood and Westchester, call us 24/7 to schedule an appointment at 800-862-5914.
