There can only be one thing more reassuring than having your spinal surgeon admiring his own work, and that is, knowing that you are pain free and your life is rapidly getting back on track.

My first contact with Mr Ishaque was in March 2011, following a recommendation from my niece, who is a Chiropractor. She had attended a lecture given by him on controlling back pain, and was extremely impressed by his approach and expertise in this area.

I have a history of lower back pain spanning the last 10 years. Over the years my symptoms continued to worsen and it became increasingly difficult to walk. My back often felt unstable, and at times the pain was so intense I felt like I might pass out. It was at this point that I contacted Mr Ishaque, in March 2011.

During my first consultation with Mr Ishaque I knew I had made the right decision. I felt immediately reassured by his friendly and thorough approach in discussing my symptoms, and the various courses of treatment available, including surgery as the last resort. Most importantly he really listened to me!

Using my blood test results, MRI and X-ray scans, Mr Ishaque described accurately to me why I was experiencing so much pain. He recommended that I have an epidural, which would precisely target the affected area and explained that if this was successful in relieving my pain, it would be further confirmation that his diagnosis was correct. The epidural was successful and provided me with pain relief for a few valuable months. However the pain soon returned and I had a second epidural, with the same results. Mr Ishaque then advised that the next option would be to have a fusion operation. Again he talked through how the operation might be beneficial to me, and that it would involve placing metal rods in my back to support my spine. He discussed the risks involved, but in displaying his detailed and meticulous approach to surgery, instilled great confidence in me and, reassured, I decided to go ahead. Any further general queries I had were quickly dealt with by Linda, Mr Ishaque’s friendly and efficient secretary.

On the day of the operation, in April 2012, both Mr Ishaque and Dr Da Silva, the anaesthestist who works in close association with him, guided me through the procedure and did all they could to put me at ease. During my stay in hospital I received excellent care from all the staff. The affection and esteem with which Mr Ishaque and his team are held, by everyone, is obvious. Following the operation, I quickly realised the severe back and leg pain I had suffered from for years had disappeared.

It has been just over 3 months now since my surgery and I am delighted with the difference it has made to my life already. I am attending Pilates again. I can drive and go out for walks. Most importantly I am enjoying the activities, as I am feeling stronger all the time.

At my last consultation Mr Ishaque went through some post-operative X-ray images of my spine. After pointing out with pride, the precision and symmetry of his work in installing the metal rods supporting my spine, he turned to me and with a smile said the procedure was ‘absolutely text book’. There can only be one thing more reassuring than having your spinal surgeon admiring his own work, and that is, knowing that you are pain free and your life is rapidly getting back on track.

I highly recommend Mr Ishaque, and I cannot thank him enough for giving me back a quality of life I was beginning to think after years of pain, I’d never have again.