jltk
07-24-2003, 08:42 PM
I have recently been diagnosed with bulging disc and bone spurs at C4 C5. Along with my MS symptoms I am tring tto learn how to cope with this problem. I also just today was told by my dr that I have severe arthritis in my wwrist due to a fall during an MS flare that broke my wrist 2 yrs ago. I have terrible headaches associated with the disc prob. It starts in my neck and radiates to my head. He first prescribed Ultracet which did nothing but upset my tummy. Today we put a brace on my wrist and he prescribed But-Acet-Caff Plus. Anybody ever hear of it? I really need some direction in this . All help is appreciated.
Kathy
Kathy
Sponsor
Renee016
07-26-2003, 11:13 PM
Hi, jltk - where is the disc pressing, do you know? Is it pressing a nerve root - if so, that could also explain pain in your wrist. Or is it pressing on the spinal cord itself, which could cause myelopathy and mimic a lot of symptoms of MS. (How were you diagnosed with that, by the way.)
Also, I read something very interesting a short time ago about a connection between MS and herniated discs in the neck. Something about neck injuries actually inducing MS in people who are suseptible. Maybe you could do a search on that. Actually, I think I will too.
Take care and feel a whole lot better.
Renee :angel:
PS Type in "neck injuries - Multiple Sclerosis"
[This message has been edited by Renee016 (edited 07-26-2003).]
Also, I read something very interesting a short time ago about a connection between MS and herniated discs in the neck. Something about neck injuries actually inducing MS in people who are suseptible. Maybe you could do a search on that. Actually, I think I will too.
Take care and feel a whole lot better.
Renee :angel:
PS Type in "neck injuries - Multiple Sclerosis"
[This message has been edited by Renee016 (edited 07-26-2003).]
Renee016
07-26-2003, 11:14 PM
Here is my profile, by the way.
Renee
------------------
1982 Fusion surgery for scoliosis with stainless steel Harrington Rod (T5 - L3) using pelvic bone for grafting
1999 Neck problems began
2001 Cervical Kyphosis
2002 Diagnosed with Epstein-Barr (level was 7+) and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
2003 3 Herniated Cervical Discs - C4 thru C7. One disc (C5-6) pressing on the spinal cord (no nerve root compression) causing leg weakness, tingling, burning and numbness - diagnosed with myelopathy and ACDF recommended.
2/24/03 One-Level Anterior Cervical Discectomy with donor bone and titanium plate (C5-6)
Renee
------------------
1982 Fusion surgery for scoliosis with stainless steel Harrington Rod (T5 - L3) using pelvic bone for grafting
1999 Neck problems began
2001 Cervical Kyphosis
2002 Diagnosed with Epstein-Barr (level was 7+) and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
2003 3 Herniated Cervical Discs - C4 thru C7. One disc (C5-6) pressing on the spinal cord (no nerve root compression) causing leg weakness, tingling, burning and numbness - diagnosed with myelopathy and ACDF recommended.
2/24/03 One-Level Anterior Cervical Discectomy with donor bone and titanium plate (C5-6)
Soleil11
08-01-2003, 12:13 AM
This is so interesting... I cannot believe what you wrote. I had a pretty good neck injury when I was younger. Now, I have the degenerated discs and advanced, severe they call it. Wondering if it caused the MS in me as well?? I will do a search and get back but not tonite. Thank you for your info.. its informative. Soleil
jltk
08-05-2003, 01:06 PM
Hello renee, Thanks so much for replying. I will look into the connection you mentioned. I was diagnosed with MS 9 yrs ago by spinal tap. Oddly enough, I had a car wreck shortly before my symptoms began. Rear ended with whiplash I will certainly research this further. Thanks so much.
janetboothe
08-16-2003, 12:27 PM
Twenty years ago i bent to pick something up i felt something in my back go within 3 days i had all kinds of numbnes in my body i had lumber puncture etc but nothing could be found.
i was put on steroids and told i had a virus of the nervous system. 4 years later i was doin keep fit and i felt something in my back go again. within a few days i had optic neuritis i went to hospital and was told i had ms i then went on to have a baby and all was well until bending something in my back went again within a few days i could not walk i was told this was due to my ms i told my neurologist about my back but he said it was just coincidence i recently went for a mri scan as i have been having a bad neck it shows that i have a small disc prolapse but is not pressing on the nerves so should not be causing problems i have always said my ms started after moving my back awkwardly but nobody will listen to me
i was put on steroids and told i had a virus of the nervous system. 4 years later i was doin keep fit and i felt something in my back go again. within a few days i had optic neuritis i went to hospital and was told i had ms i then went on to have a baby and all was well until bending something in my back went again within a few days i could not walk i was told this was due to my ms i told my neurologist about my back but he said it was just coincidence i recently went for a mri scan as i have been having a bad neck it shows that i have a small disc prolapse but is not pressing on the nerves so should not be causing problems i have always said my ms started after moving my back awkwardly but nobody will listen to me
jltk
08-19-2003, 01:32 PM
Hi Janetboothe,
I find all of this fascinating to think that neck injuries could have a link to MS. The more I think of it the more it makes sense in my case also. I wonder what the med profession would think about it. I guess it would be worth it to ask them. I have an open minded doc. so he would probably be willing to look into it for me. Thanks again
Kathy
I find all of this fascinating to think that neck injuries could have a link to MS. The more I think of it the more it makes sense in my case also. I wonder what the med profession would think about it. I guess it would be worth it to ask them. I have an open minded doc. so he would probably be willing to look into it for me. Thanks again
Kathy
cardinal
09-10-2003, 03:30 PM
Wow, I was just spanning thru to find help. I too, had cervical fusion, March 2003, also had L5/s1 surgery disc removed, 1999. I have ddd, arthritis and 3 more bulging discs, l3-5, my cervical was c 5-6-7. I am having terrible numbness, tingling up my neck to face and ear, leg and arms, my feet are in so much pain too! Now I keep having numbness in my jaw area, difficulty speaking at times! Does anyone have this jaw problem??its like tightness in my mouth area. I am seeing a neuroligst Friday and will ck out ms. How due they diagnose it? I had a mri of the brain and never followed up on it, it sd normal, so never took the actual mri to a doctor but will friday!
johneve
09-10-2003, 06:16 PM
Interesting... I've never heard the connection between neck injuries and MS. I was dx'd almost 2 years ago. I suffered a lateral disk protrusion at the C3/4 approximately 3 years prior to the dx. I also have mild arthritis in my neck.
Peace... john
Peace... john
always wondering
09-11-2003, 08:13 AM
Wow - talk about timing! I just got the results of a second MRI yesterday, and the nurse at the neuro's office said that I had degenerative disc disease, but that it didn't explain all of my symptoms. The doctor that reviewed the MRI said that it wasn't severe enough to cause them. (My doctor is out this week)This was the second MRI I've had in the last couple of months, both coming back lesion free.
I asked the nurse that since the ddd didn't explain all of my symptoms, if I could have a spinal tap, because I had read here on the boards that someone was diagnosed that way. She said that it shouldn't be a problem. I am blessed to have a neuro who is taking me seriously and trying to find out what's wrong with me...or maybe he's just trying to make $$$ :)
What are the symptoms of ddd? And do you really think that this problem could trigger MS?
Angela
I asked the nurse that since the ddd didn't explain all of my symptoms, if I could have a spinal tap, because I had read here on the boards that someone was diagnosed that way. She said that it shouldn't be a problem. I am blessed to have a neuro who is taking me seriously and trying to find out what's wrong with me...or maybe he's just trying to make $$$ :)
What are the symptoms of ddd? And do you really think that this problem could trigger MS?
Angela
jltk
09-11-2003, 01:13 PM
Hi all,
Really rough day today. I have much pain in neck, shoulder and jaw. It just doesn't seem to matter what I try can't get relief today. I know I should be thankful for the blessings I have especially today but sometimes it is very hard not to feel sorry for myself. Gee Whiz, I didn't mean to be sooo depressing.
Kathy
Really rough day today. I have much pain in neck, shoulder and jaw. It just doesn't seem to matter what I try can't get relief today. I know I should be thankful for the blessings I have especially today but sometimes it is very hard not to feel sorry for myself. Gee Whiz, I didn't mean to be sooo depressing.
Kathy
Penny
09-14-2003, 07:39 PM
Kathy...your posts are not depressing at all. That is what these boards are for...sharing experiences. The pain you are experiencing is very real.
I was diagnosed with MS 10 years ago. In Feb of this year I started experiencing lower back pain. I assumed it had something to do with my MS. A couple of months later...my right hip and leg began to hurt while my foot became numb. My neuro ordered an MRI which showed L5 S1 Spondylolisthesis with compression of the sciatic nerve.
I've tried PT, several different medications, a chiropractor and all types of exercises. The pain now is worse than ever. I have an appointment tomorrow to discuss an epidural nerve block. Certainly the MS has to be given consideration while thinking of this procedure. However, I am at the point where something has to be done...despite the risks.
Let us know how you are doing Kathy. We care.
I was diagnosed with MS 10 years ago. In Feb of this year I started experiencing lower back pain. I assumed it had something to do with my MS. A couple of months later...my right hip and leg began to hurt while my foot became numb. My neuro ordered an MRI which showed L5 S1 Spondylolisthesis with compression of the sciatic nerve.
I've tried PT, several different medications, a chiropractor and all types of exercises. The pain now is worse than ever. I have an appointment tomorrow to discuss an epidural nerve block. Certainly the MS has to be given consideration while thinking of this procedure. However, I am at the point where something has to be done...despite the risks.
Let us know how you are doing Kathy. We care.
LillyDee
09-16-2003, 03:18 AM
Hi Kathy! I think you're onto something. I was diagnosed with MS after I was in a car accident. My MRI showed I had disc bulging in C4 C5 and it also showd lesions. My MS symptoms really came on after the accident, I was experiening numbness in my left arm and hand, then my left leg got so weak I couldn't even lift it or walk on it without help, then both my feet started tingling and they got numb. I'm still experiencing symptoms but I was so surprised when I read this message board about the similarities. Thanks :)
jltk
09-23-2003, 12:50 AM
Hello again,
I do feel some better. I think this neck prob is going to be here forever. We are planning a vacation for the 1st week in Oct. After that I guess I will go in for more tests to see if we can do something to help with the pain. Thank-you all for being so helpful. It really does help to know you are out there. Kathy
I do feel some better. I think this neck prob is going to be here forever. We are planning a vacation for the 1st week in Oct. After that I guess I will go in for more tests to see if we can do something to help with the pain. Thank-you all for being so helpful. It really does help to know you are out there. Kathy
CLJones64
10-17-2003, 01:41 PM
Hi, I'm new to this board, and happened to run across it in my search for answers or help or something. I too have MS, and was just diagnosed with a cervical bulging disc in my neck. My neurologist initially began treatment as though it were an MS flareup, but discovered upon an MRI that it is in fact a bulging disc in my neck--C5/C6 region. I am in terrible pain near my right shoulder blade and have numbness down my right arm to my fingers. I've been this way since Sept 26th, and the pain is beginning to wear on me to say the least. I started off with 3000mgs of IV Solumedrol, and have since had an epidural steroid injection, neither of which has curbed the incredible pain. I'm living on pain meds and muscle relaxers, and I hate the way the make me feel. I'm also going to a chiropractor, but thus far, no difference there either. I just want to scream! I can't stand this pain and the numbness is overwhelming. I don't know what to do. My neurologists nurse informed me today that the most probable next step would be another steroid injection, possibly next week. In the meantime, I have to continue suffering and taking pain meds. I'm about to reach my breaking point I fear, and would love to have any advice or suggestions that any of you may have to offer, and hear your stories. Needless to say, I've been unable to work since this happened and fear losing my job. I just want this over, so I can get back to my normal routine, and on with my life. HELP!
Soleil11
10-18-2003, 01:02 AM
This is only to say I hear you and have these problems also. I don't have the answer for you, but wanted you to know I read your post. Please take care of yourself and I hope you don't lose your job. If it comes to that, file immediately for disability as it is a long process and everyday you would delay counts. Soleil
jltk
10-20-2003, 09:40 PM
Hello all,
I am always sorry to hear of anyone dealing with chronic pain. I know how trying that is. Have you tried any physical therapy? That seemed to help me some but I must admit I do still have pain. I pray for your strength and will think of you. Let us all know how things are going. Also, the advice about disability is good; it took me 6 months before it was approved.
jltk/kathy
I am always sorry to hear of anyone dealing with chronic pain. I know how trying that is. Have you tried any physical therapy? That seemed to help me some but I must admit I do still have pain. I pray for your strength and will think of you. Let us all know how things are going. Also, the advice about disability is good; it took me 6 months before it was approved.
jltk/kathy
CLJones64
10-20-2003, 11:48 PM
Hello again, and thank you for your responses to my initial post. I'm still in pain, but seem to be dealing a little better now. My neuro has started me on Neurontin to see if it will help, and I'm seeing a chiropractor 3-4 times a week. I haven't had any PT, but from what I understand it's not very effective for cervical problems because that space is so tight.
When this first happened it really shook me up, thinking my MS was flaring up, but now I wish that was what it is because I feel like the Solumedrol would have helped. Now I have a new problem to deal with, and the prognosis disturbs me almost as much as the constant pain. I had no idea that there seems to be a correlation between MS and disc problems...talk about a shock. Have any of you been able to find out if that has been studied anywhere? I find it hard to believe that the doctors haven't had any suspicions, especially considering the responses here to the initial post. Seems it's too common to ignore. I'd love to know what any of you find out, so please post it.
Kathy, I can definitely empathize with you, and your support for others is amazing, when you're going thru this, too.
Thanks again for the replies, and the support.
Carla
When this first happened it really shook me up, thinking my MS was flaring up, but now I wish that was what it is because I feel like the Solumedrol would have helped. Now I have a new problem to deal with, and the prognosis disturbs me almost as much as the constant pain. I had no idea that there seems to be a correlation between MS and disc problems...talk about a shock. Have any of you been able to find out if that has been studied anywhere? I find it hard to believe that the doctors haven't had any suspicions, especially considering the responses here to the initial post. Seems it's too common to ignore. I'd love to know what any of you find out, so please post it.
Kathy, I can definitely empathize with you, and your support for others is amazing, when you're going thru this, too.
Thanks again for the replies, and the support.
Carla
jltk
10-22-2003, 01:11 AM
Hi Carla,
I hope your pain is better today. I have lived with MS and other joint probs for so long now I guess I have learned to cope. Believe me in the beginning I was not so insightful. As I have read on this board before this illness will change your life and if u work at it; it just might be some positive changes in there. I have learned to take one day at a time and to have patience, patience, patience with other people. Most of the time their comments are made from ignorance not malice. It is much less stressful to forgive their ignorance than to stew about their malice. Life is all about how we choose to perceive the things around us and we do have control over our actions. My, my I really did get on a soapbox. I just love to try to help others find something positive living in the world of MS.
Lots of love, Kathy
I hope your pain is better today. I have lived with MS and other joint probs for so long now I guess I have learned to cope. Believe me in the beginning I was not so insightful. As I have read on this board before this illness will change your life and if u work at it; it just might be some positive changes in there. I have learned to take one day at a time and to have patience, patience, patience with other people. Most of the time their comments are made from ignorance not malice. It is much less stressful to forgive their ignorance than to stew about their malice. Life is all about how we choose to perceive the things around us and we do have control over our actions. My, my I really did get on a soapbox. I just love to try to help others find something positive living in the world of MS.
Lots of love, Kathy
CLJones64
10-30-2003, 01:59 AM
Hello all,
Just wanted to update you. I have been back to my neurologist finally, and upon examination, and another look at the MRI, come to find out the culprit is my T1/T2 disc! I'm scheduled for a thoracic steroid injection November 7th, and am placing all my eggs in that basket for now...hoping that it eases my pain and allows me to avoid surgery. Unfortunately, according to my neurologist that's the next step if the injection doesn't help. Please keep me in your prayers that it works. Oh, and by the way, the Neurontin IS easing the pain, at least to a tolerable level. :)
Hope all is well with all of you. Just had to share the latest.
Oh, and you'll never guess what I found on the Spinal cord board..more MSers with disc problems!! Anyone been able to find out anything more on that topic? I'm going to ask my neurologist when I see him again if he knows of any correlation. I'll be sure to let you know his reply.
Hugs and heartfelt thanks!!
Carla
Just wanted to update you. I have been back to my neurologist finally, and upon examination, and another look at the MRI, come to find out the culprit is my T1/T2 disc! I'm scheduled for a thoracic steroid injection November 7th, and am placing all my eggs in that basket for now...hoping that it eases my pain and allows me to avoid surgery. Unfortunately, according to my neurologist that's the next step if the injection doesn't help. Please keep me in your prayers that it works. Oh, and by the way, the Neurontin IS easing the pain, at least to a tolerable level. :)
Hope all is well with all of you. Just had to share the latest.
Oh, and you'll never guess what I found on the Spinal cord board..more MSers with disc problems!! Anyone been able to find out anything more on that topic? I'm going to ask my neurologist when I see him again if he knows of any correlation. I'll be sure to let you know his reply.
Hugs and heartfelt thanks!!
Carla
californiasunflower
11-14-2003, 09:15 PM
Hi! :wave:
I know what its like to work in pain and I'm off work because my doctor initially took me off. My condition hasn't resolved to return. Its hard not to want to return but I know that my only job now is just to concentrate on getting well or better than I am now. My meds. are limited due to my eye condition.
I dont know if I have anything here that can help you but since I am limited on what meds I can use, here's what I do:
Pain management: Tyl. w/Codeine. Use ice (I have something I bought at Wal-Mart that is soft and can be frozen. It can be wrapped about the neck, limbs, held up against the spine and around the neck). I rest as often as I can. I notice that activity aggravates my neck and shoulders, and to keep the circulation going, I talk an easy walk (activity aggravates my eye). Use massagers for the neck and back; heating pad; Tens Unit; shower massager helps neck, shoulders and back. I ask for a massage from my husband. My shoulder freezes up too and I have pain radiating into my arms-use ice and heat and get massage from hubby.
I regret that your level of pain isn't being helped with your meds. How did you get through working before? did you have pain then? Fatigue? I'm really interested in hearing your story. I just don't know if I can go back without sufficient vision and in so much pain, and I've always been a trooper and wanted to work. :p
I know what its like to work in pain and I'm off work because my doctor initially took me off. My condition hasn't resolved to return. Its hard not to want to return but I know that my only job now is just to concentrate on getting well or better than I am now. My meds. are limited due to my eye condition.
I dont know if I have anything here that can help you but since I am limited on what meds I can use, here's what I do:
Pain management: Tyl. w/Codeine. Use ice (I have something I bought at Wal-Mart that is soft and can be frozen. It can be wrapped about the neck, limbs, held up against the spine and around the neck). I rest as often as I can. I notice that activity aggravates my neck and shoulders, and to keep the circulation going, I talk an easy walk (activity aggravates my eye). Use massagers for the neck and back; heating pad; Tens Unit; shower massager helps neck, shoulders and back. I ask for a massage from my husband. My shoulder freezes up too and I have pain radiating into my arms-use ice and heat and get massage from hubby.
I regret that your level of pain isn't being helped with your meds. How did you get through working before? did you have pain then? Fatigue? I'm really interested in hearing your story. I just don't know if I can go back without sufficient vision and in so much pain, and I've always been a trooper and wanted to work. :p
CLJones64
11-14-2003, 10:41 PM
Hello again all,
Just wanted to update the board and let you all know the latest with me.
I've been dealing a little better with my pain, and am now on short term disability thru my former place of employment, which luckily went thru before my job ended. The company has been sold, so I have no job to worry about going back to at this point, but that's okay...at least now I can concentrate on getting better.
I had the first ESI in October, which did no good. The second ESI, scheduled for last Friday, couldn't be done due to the location at T1/T2. Doc said the x-ray wouldn't allow him to "see" where to put the needle because the shoulders are too thick. I'm glad he was honest, and didn't try to do it "blind", but seems there's nothing else my neurologist can do, so he went ahead and referred me to an orthopedic surgeon that specializes in the spine. I see him on the 24th. I'm nervous, but ready. I hope he knows of options that can be tried, and doesn't want to jump right into surgery, but we'll see. I don't want to have surgery, but I'm definitely willing to consider that option at this point.
Thankfully my pain is tolerable at this point, thanks to the Neurontin and to continued visits to the chiropractor.
I'll keep you all posted, and let you know what happens on the 24th. Thanks to everyone for all the support and words of encouragement!!!
Hugs,
Carla
Just wanted to update the board and let you all know the latest with me.
I've been dealing a little better with my pain, and am now on short term disability thru my former place of employment, which luckily went thru before my job ended. The company has been sold, so I have no job to worry about going back to at this point, but that's okay...at least now I can concentrate on getting better.
I had the first ESI in October, which did no good. The second ESI, scheduled for last Friday, couldn't be done due to the location at T1/T2. Doc said the x-ray wouldn't allow him to "see" where to put the needle because the shoulders are too thick. I'm glad he was honest, and didn't try to do it "blind", but seems there's nothing else my neurologist can do, so he went ahead and referred me to an orthopedic surgeon that specializes in the spine. I see him on the 24th. I'm nervous, but ready. I hope he knows of options that can be tried, and doesn't want to jump right into surgery, but we'll see. I don't want to have surgery, but I'm definitely willing to consider that option at this point.
Thankfully my pain is tolerable at this point, thanks to the Neurontin and to continued visits to the chiropractor.
I'll keep you all posted, and let you know what happens on the 24th. Thanks to everyone for all the support and words of encouragement!!!
Hugs,
Carla