NorthWest Biotherapeutics Inc (NWBO)

[barnstormer]

Gary, sorry to hear about your problem. Turns out outside of age we also have back issues. Not sure what your cause, but I have a collapsed disc at the L4-L5 and a stenosis at the L2-L3. For several years I've been able to avoid invasive surgery with annual epidurals, one ablation and managing my activity by doing yard work and other strenuous activity taking my time and sort rest if the discomfort gets too bad. I'm scheduled for two procedures in the next couple of weeks, both at the stenosis site. I'm using an outfit called the Pain Doctors. Their treatments are non-invasive and depending on your pain tolerance can be done with or out anesthesia. I've done mine without, worst pain is the injection of a local. I've done without as I want to be able to drive as soon as they've done. Epidural is a cortisone specialized for spine issues, I suspect you know that. The other procedure is fairly new, called mild(trademark) and works by removing the excess ligament that impinges the column. Described as removing the kink in a drinking straw. So anyway, you might want to see if there is a facility similar in your area.
Other thought is check for any independent imaging outfits in your area, I believe they are considerably less costly than a hospital imaging unit. At any rate, hope your pain will decrease.