Renee016
01-17-2003, 11:27 PM
Hi, I just found this - I was looking at back problems. I'm hoping I'll get more info here. I just found out that I have three herniated discs in my neck. One of them is totally ruptured and pressing on the spinal cord. My neck pain started 4 years ago out of nowhere - I just woke up one morning and could not move my head or lift it off the pillow. Since then its been on and off every few months - pain in neck and right shoulder. The last episode happened in early November. I woke up again and could not move - the day before I had been raking leaves. After two visits to the emergency room and a "trigger point injection" from my orthopedist, I started to develop severe weakness in my legs with tingling and numbness in my toes. CT-scan showed nothing, EMG showed nothing. Finally an MRI showed the discs. My doctor thinks I will eventually need surgery in the near future but he also thinks its odd that most of my symptoms are in my legs (not my arms) so he wants me to keep seeing the nuerologist to rule out other things. In the meantime, I've had a blood test for Lyme disease, a visit to the endochrinologist with more blood tests and an ultra-sound on my thyroid. Everything comes up negative.
What I don't understand is why I have to keep getting more and more tests when we already know whats wrong. The weakness is getting worse - to the point where I don't know if I can keep my job. It feels like there is lead in my legs. Is there anyone else out there with cervical disc herniations experiencing weakness in their legs?
Thanks in advance for your advise.
Renee
What I don't understand is why I have to keep getting more and more tests when we already know whats wrong. The weakness is getting worse - to the point where I don't know if I can keep my job. It feels like there is lead in my legs. Is there anyone else out there with cervical disc herniations experiencing weakness in their legs?
Thanks in advance for your advise.
Renee
Sponsor
Debbie2
01-17-2003, 11:36 PM
Renee,
I think its long past overdue you make an appointment (and take your MRI) to a neuro surgeon. Four years is a long time to suffer all these symptons. Surpised you were not advised to see one just for a second opinion? Keep us posted.
Debbie
------------------
Debbie2
ACDF fusion (c5c6) with titanium plate and screws using donor bone -
September 4, 2002.
I think its long past overdue you make an appointment (and take your MRI) to a neuro surgeon. Four years is a long time to suffer all these symptons. Surpised you were not advised to see one just for a second opinion? Keep us posted.
Debbie
------------------
Debbie2
ACDF fusion (c5c6) with titanium plate and screws using donor bone -
September 4, 2002.
daisyduke
01-18-2003, 01:36 AM
renee its me again,michelle.just wanted to let ya know u aren't alone...my legs get EXTREMELY HEAVY..i mean to where i have to use a cane.i cannot lift them at all,especially while laying down or sitting! i have a very hard time going up stairs....please email me or instant message me in aol.daisyduke10971 or yahoo
Tefkat
01-18-2003, 09:08 AM
I have leg problems but I assumed that was beacause I have a lower back problem that predates my neck injury.
Maybe not then.
Maybe not then.
melanie dawn
01-18-2003, 11:00 AM
Hi There Renee,
I agree you need to see a neurosurgeon with your MRI. There are many of us on here who get the heavy legs and other symptoms. You need to know that compression in the neck ,can definately start with symptoms in the legs. It is known as the sensory march, and means that symptoms can start at the bottom and move up or vice versa .
I was also told by a family doc. that the legs do not have anything to do with the neck. How ridiculous.
I can get really bad symtoms after vacuuming etc.
Also make sure you learn as much as you can , to protect yourself and and provide understanding of your symptoms.
Take care Mel
[This message has been edited by melanie dawn (edited 01-18-2003).]
I agree you need to see a neurosurgeon with your MRI. There are many of us on here who get the heavy legs and other symptoms. You need to know that compression in the neck ,can definately start with symptoms in the legs. It is known as the sensory march, and means that symptoms can start at the bottom and move up or vice versa .
I was also told by a family doc. that the legs do not have anything to do with the neck. How ridiculous.
I can get really bad symtoms after vacuuming etc.
Also make sure you learn as much as you can , to protect yourself and and provide understanding of your symptoms.
Take care Mel
[This message has been edited by melanie dawn (edited 01-18-2003).]
Niki47
01-18-2003, 03:15 PM
Hi Renee,
Melanie is right! (Hi Mel!) There are also other symptoms that may seem unrelated to you, but if you have them... could mean something more to your doctor.
Do you have bowel or bladder "urgency"???
Do you have blood pressure problems?
Heart palpitations or wierd chest pains?
Sexual dysfunction?
Vitually all functions of your body are controlled by nerves that run thru your neck. So there may be more compression on the cord than is currently realized.
Read all you can... knowledge is power! Smile.
Good luck!
Niki47
Melanie is right! (Hi Mel!) There are also other symptoms that may seem unrelated to you, but if you have them... could mean something more to your doctor.
Do you have bowel or bladder "urgency"???
Do you have blood pressure problems?
Heart palpitations or wierd chest pains?
Sexual dysfunction?
Vitually all functions of your body are controlled by nerves that run thru your neck. So there may be more compression on the cord than is currently realized.
Read all you can... knowledge is power! Smile.
Good luck!
Niki47
angelfan
01-18-2003, 04:47 PM
Hi Renee,
I, too, had severe stenosis with cord compression, and my symptoms where all over my body, my left leg feeling as if it were full of lead. Felt like I was constantly off-balance because of it. My family doc, while doing my pre-surgical medical clearance, scratched his head and said "the problem is in your leg and they think it's your neck???" Can you believe that!!! Anyway, I had a four level laminectomy, fusion, titanium rods/screws, and my leg is almost perfect again. When I overdue it, I still feel a slight weakness. 90% of the time, I feel great, with almost all my symptoms gone. Hope this helped.
Angelfan
I, too, had severe stenosis with cord compression, and my symptoms where all over my body, my left leg feeling as if it were full of lead. Felt like I was constantly off-balance because of it. My family doc, while doing my pre-surgical medical clearance, scratched his head and said "the problem is in your leg and they think it's your neck???" Can you believe that!!! Anyway, I had a four level laminectomy, fusion, titanium rods/screws, and my leg is almost perfect again. When I overdue it, I still feel a slight weakness. 90% of the time, I feel great, with almost all my symptoms gone. Hope this helped.
Angelfan
rockymtn
01-19-2003, 02:24 AM
Hi Renee,
I had a ruptured disc c 5/6 with compression of the spinal cord. I had problems with my right shoulder/arm/hand. As it progressed, I began having problems with 'heaviness' in my right leg. I was terrified! I told the NS - enough! I cant take it anymore - Do something! He said the heaviness was due to the spinal cord compression and the only way to bring relief was surgery. I had the surgery the following week. All my symptoms disappeared! My right side returned to normal!!! I had some discomfort from the surgery - but it was soooooo worth it to be relieved of the pain and fear! The leg part was even scarier than the arm pain for me - but it is gone now! I hope that you find a solution soon - it's not fun to live with the symptoms that you have! Good luck to you!
------------------
ACDF - 10/29/02 - c 5/6 donor bone with hardware
I had a ruptured disc c 5/6 with compression of the spinal cord. I had problems with my right shoulder/arm/hand. As it progressed, I began having problems with 'heaviness' in my right leg. I was terrified! I told the NS - enough! I cant take it anymore - Do something! He said the heaviness was due to the spinal cord compression and the only way to bring relief was surgery. I had the surgery the following week. All my symptoms disappeared! My right side returned to normal!!! I had some discomfort from the surgery - but it was soooooo worth it to be relieved of the pain and fear! The leg part was even scarier than the arm pain for me - but it is gone now! I hope that you find a solution soon - it's not fun to live with the symptoms that you have! Good luck to you!
------------------
ACDF - 10/29/02 - c 5/6 donor bone with hardware
mothmin
01-19-2003, 03:38 PM
hey reneee, I'm 5 weeks post-op, my story is similar to yours. I'm really starting to loose respect over the arogance of these docotrs. I also had some foot pain, and they said "impossible" I wish they would start listening to patience insted of presuming they know all the secrets of the universe... it's obvious they don't! I've talked to so many people on this board with similar problems. I hope my nightmare is finally over, and yours ends soon. good luck.
PsychLea
01-20-2003, 12:05 AM
Hi :wave:
I have been lurking on the spinal board,but posting on the "back board" :)
I have large HNP at C6-7 and I have left sided chest pain, left shoulder pain, burning pain down to my elbow and wrist(radial nerve) and burning pain down the outer aspect of my left leg. It was amazing to me when my PCP told me he thought I had herniated a disc and he was right. Thank God I have such a competent family doctor.
When I stand for long periods of time, my left leg is stiff and heavy and I literally have to pick it up to get it into the car. Don't you hate all the concrete you have to walk on in stores?
I also have what looks like spinal cord compression at the HNP site, it's very clear on the MRI films with a pronounced narrowing pushing on the spinal cord.
I see the NS this week and can't wait to get some pain relief. I am on Valium (can't take very often)Ultram, Naprosyn, and use heat on and off. The pain is really starting to interfere with my functioning, and the meds are making me feel foggy headed and . . .well . . . stupid http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/dizzy.gif
So the C spine is a very interesting place to have problems.
------------------
God bless,
Lea
I have been lurking on the spinal board,but posting on the "back board" :)
I have large HNP at C6-7 and I have left sided chest pain, left shoulder pain, burning pain down to my elbow and wrist(radial nerve) and burning pain down the outer aspect of my left leg. It was amazing to me when my PCP told me he thought I had herniated a disc and he was right. Thank God I have such a competent family doctor.
When I stand for long periods of time, my left leg is stiff and heavy and I literally have to pick it up to get it into the car. Don't you hate all the concrete you have to walk on in stores?
I also have what looks like spinal cord compression at the HNP site, it's very clear on the MRI films with a pronounced narrowing pushing on the spinal cord.
I see the NS this week and can't wait to get some pain relief. I am on Valium (can't take very often)Ultram, Naprosyn, and use heat on and off. The pain is really starting to interfere with my functioning, and the meds are making me feel foggy headed and . . .well . . . stupid http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/dizzy.gif
So the C spine is a very interesting place to have problems.
------------------
God bless,
Lea
mothmin
01-20-2003, 02:50 PM
Lea, I'm 5 weeks ost-op for blown c-7. In the begining I had tight chest and breathing probs. I actually thought I had sleep apnia because I would "choke" in my sleep sometimes. I found out that not sleeping on my stomachstopped the breathing/chest problems, as well as waking up with dead hands. the surgery seems to have worked...so far. good luck. P.S " what that boggy creek monster like?"
Renee016
01-20-2003, 09:08 PM
Thanks, everyone for sharing your stories and advise. Nikki, I do not have any of the other problems that you mentioned but the last time I had my blood pressure taken it was very low, even for me. It was like 105 over 60 or something like that. I don't know if this means anything. Also, I finally made an apt with a nuerosurgeon for next week. Anyway it's somewhat comforting to know I'm not the only one who's experienced this so I thank everyone for your replies.
Renee
Renee
Debbie2
01-20-2003, 10:38 PM
So glad you have an appointment next week. He will hopefully be able to answer all your questions and give you some direction. Make sure you make notes of all the questions you have, you finally get in to see a neuro and some of us just drew a blank. Good luck and let us know how it goes.
Debbie
------------------
Debbie2
ACDF fusion (c5c6) with titanium plate and screws using donor bone -
September 4, 2002.
Debbie
------------------
Debbie2
ACDF fusion (c5c6) with titanium plate and screws using donor bone -
September 4, 2002.
Niki47
01-21-2003, 04:16 PM
Glad to hear of your impending appt., keep us posted!!!
Be well!
Niki47
Be well!
Niki47
Eartha
01-21-2003, 07:33 PM
Hello Renee,
I too, have leg pains with my C5-6 steniosis, compression. I am having more and more difficulity with my left arm. Pain is almost unbearable and I have to use my right arm to move the left arm alot these days.
I have an appointment on 28 Jan to schedule surgery.
With the knowledge I am finding here on the boards,
I have decided it is time for surgery.
I also have sleep apnea? Wonder if that will improve after my surgery? Hope so!
Wish doctors would tell their patients more info,
but thank heavens we patients have these message boards.
Good Luck!
Eartha
I too, have leg pains with my C5-6 steniosis, compression. I am having more and more difficulity with my left arm. Pain is almost unbearable and I have to use my right arm to move the left arm alot these days.
I have an appointment on 28 Jan to schedule surgery.
With the knowledge I am finding here on the boards,
I have decided it is time for surgery.
I also have sleep apnea? Wonder if that will improve after my surgery? Hope so!
Wish doctors would tell their patients more info,
but thank heavens we patients have these message boards.
Good Luck!
Eartha
eraskas
01-23-2003, 10:52 PM
I was diagnosed in the last two weeks with 2.6 year progession cervial myleopathy with an MRI that showed a level 4 (1-6) herniation into my spinal cord. My fingers on both sides of my hands had suffered numbness since onset and more recently my legs and finally my torso began losing sensation. surgery was performed last thursday to remove the disk and fuse the 5-6 vertabrae successfully. I suggest that if your MRI's depict similar you need to find the right neurosurgeon/spinal surgeon in your region immediately!
fatcat
02-01-2003, 10:23 PM
OMG !!!!
I have been suffering with back probs for over 20 years. Jan 2001 my lower back started 'catching' when I bent over,, June 30 2001 my r leg got numb up to my waist. Been thru docs trying to say I had 'mild' MS,, MRI's dont warrant my pain etc,,,dont worry about it,,,etc,,,
I now have the shoulder/arm pain as well. The spinal specialist I saw indicated that something happening at a high level as in cspine can affect everything below. I did not fully understand until now!! Hearing about your neck probs and the effects on your legs now helps me to understand !! Thank you !
On another board,, I was accused of being hypochondriac,, just as most of the docs were indicating! Dont they realize this pain we all feel is ReAL??
At least I dont feel nutz now,, at least about this!! LOL!
I just gave up,, waiting for cervical fusion or the artificial disks to get perfected,,, just deal with the discomfort each day and go on. I keep abreast of news in MS ,, because those Neuros couldn't make a decision on my spine problems,,,
Below are two of my old reports:
L-S SPINE
Mild degen @ L5-S1 with no root impingement noted.
MRI CERVICAL SPINE WITH AND WITHOUT CONTRAST
CLINICAL. HISTORY : Pain. Myelopathy Multiplesclerosis
TECHNIQUE:
Sagittal TI, T2-weighted and inversion recovery technique was performed. An axial gradient-echo T2-weighted sequence was performed as well as an axial proton-density. Post-gadolinium TI-weighted sequences were. also performed.
FINDINGS:
The finding of note is demonstration of diffuse cervical spondylosis with degenerative changes at multiple levels,primarily C3-C4, C4-C5 arid C5-C6, There was some canal narrowing and cord abutment. The findings I believe are greatest at C4-C5, C5-C6 and C6-C. The cervical cord however, had a normal appearance with normal signal. Specifically, there were
no findings of abnormal increased signal or areas of enhancement that might suggest foci of myelitis or areas that might
suggest plaque,
IMPRESSION:
Moderato to diffuse cervical spondylosis with findings of possible mild acquired spinal stenosis, greatest
at C5-C6 and C6-C7.
I have been suffering with back probs for over 20 years. Jan 2001 my lower back started 'catching' when I bent over,, June 30 2001 my r leg got numb up to my waist. Been thru docs trying to say I had 'mild' MS,, MRI's dont warrant my pain etc,,,dont worry about it,,,etc,,,
I now have the shoulder/arm pain as well. The spinal specialist I saw indicated that something happening at a high level as in cspine can affect everything below. I did not fully understand until now!! Hearing about your neck probs and the effects on your legs now helps me to understand !! Thank you !
On another board,, I was accused of being hypochondriac,, just as most of the docs were indicating! Dont they realize this pain we all feel is ReAL??
At least I dont feel nutz now,, at least about this!! LOL!
I just gave up,, waiting for cervical fusion or the artificial disks to get perfected,,, just deal with the discomfort each day and go on. I keep abreast of news in MS ,, because those Neuros couldn't make a decision on my spine problems,,,
Below are two of my old reports:
L-S SPINE
Mild degen @ L5-S1 with no root impingement noted.
MRI CERVICAL SPINE WITH AND WITHOUT CONTRAST
CLINICAL. HISTORY : Pain. Myelopathy Multiplesclerosis
TECHNIQUE:
Sagittal TI, T2-weighted and inversion recovery technique was performed. An axial gradient-echo T2-weighted sequence was performed as well as an axial proton-density. Post-gadolinium TI-weighted sequences were. also performed.
FINDINGS:
The finding of note is demonstration of diffuse cervical spondylosis with degenerative changes at multiple levels,primarily C3-C4, C4-C5 arid C5-C6, There was some canal narrowing and cord abutment. The findings I believe are greatest at C4-C5, C5-C6 and C6-C. The cervical cord however, had a normal appearance with normal signal. Specifically, there were
no findings of abnormal increased signal or areas of enhancement that might suggest foci of myelitis or areas that might
suggest plaque,
IMPRESSION:
Moderato to diffuse cervical spondylosis with findings of possible mild acquired spinal stenosis, greatest
at C5-C6 and C6-C7.
Renee016
02-02-2003, 10:42 PM
Hi, Fatcat - sorry to hear about all of your troubles. I am told now that I do need surgery and within the next three weeks because the doctors think I may have the beginning of myelopathy due to compression(which symptoms are very similar to MS). If you are having leg problems it could be due to spinal cord compression in your neck but I think it could also be from your lower back or from MS. When were you diagnosed with MS? Did you have any MRI's before that?
I know what you went through - everyone had me thinking I was going nuts but I knew it was real. I think of doctors as weathermen - that make a very good educated guess but if it's something that doesn't show up on a blood test, they don't really know for sure.
Feel better
Renee :angel:
------------------
1982 Fusion surgery with stainless steel Harrington Rod - T5 - L3
1999 Neck problems began
2001 Cervical Kyphosis
2003 3 Herniated Cervical Discs - C4 thru C7. One disc (C5-6) pressing on the spinal cord (no nerve root compression) causing leg problems - diagnosed with Myleopathy and anterior cervical discectomy recommended.
I know what you went through - everyone had me thinking I was going nuts but I knew it was real. I think of doctors as weathermen - that make a very good educated guess but if it's something that doesn't show up on a blood test, they don't really know for sure.
Feel better
Renee :angel:
------------------
1982 Fusion surgery with stainless steel Harrington Rod - T5 - L3
1999 Neck problems began
2001 Cervical Kyphosis
2003 3 Herniated Cervical Discs - C4 thru C7. One disc (C5-6) pressing on the spinal cord (no nerve root compression) causing leg problems - diagnosed with Myleopathy and anterior cervical discectomy recommended.
fatcat
02-03-2003, 02:22 PM
Hi Renee!
I have MRI brain too I will post.
Docs just kept saying MRI dont warrant the degree symptoms I have.I went to a spine specialist who went over all MRI with me and said" I cant tell you what to do but I dont think its nec to have that lumbar puncture(meaning to see if MS) ".
I left it at that.
He said that b/c docs put diag on the MRI request, ie MC neuropathy, etc, that that is what the radiologist tries to accommodate on his report.
He said that also he felt radiologist also missed some small things that can cause my problems. He said the rad does not get to hear my entire history of sciatic back probs either.
here is the brain mri:
MRI OF THORACIC SPINE WITHOUT AND WITH CONTRAST
Clinical HX: Pain, Myelopathy, Multiple Sclerosis
TECHNIQUE
Sagittal T1,T2-weighted and inversion recover sequences were performed along with an axial T1 and T2- weighted sequence.
A post-gadolinium T1-weighted sagittal and axial sequence was also performed.
FINDINGS:
Overall the examination was unremarkable. There is felt to be no abnormal signal from the vertebral bodies or the spinal
canal. There were changes of slight disc space narrowing, but no definite evidence of focal disc protrusion or cord abutment.
No other specific abnormalities were identified.
IMPRESSION: Negative.
HEAD MRI WITHOUT AND WITH CONTRAST 10/19/01
indication: persistent Numbness right side of body extending from waist to toes.
TECHNIQUE: flair, axial and sagittal acquisitions. T2 weighted turbo spin echo axial acquisition. Ti weighted spin echo acquisitions both prior to (Axial plane) and following (axial and coronal plane) uneventful iv administration of omniscan.
FINDINGS:
There are no comparison studies available for review at this institution. This patient has orthodontic braces on the maxillary
teeth. There is significant, associated susceptibility artifact primarily in the distribution of the middle cranial fossa. This
makes evaluation somewhat limited. On the flair and t2 weighted turbo spin echo images note is made of multiple, small foci of T2 prolongation within the cerebral white matter bilaterally. At lest ten or twelve small focal lesions are identified, none of which
show any significant associated mass effect and none of which show enhancement on the postcontrast images. Most of the
lesions are distributed in a peripheral, almost subcortical location. The appearance is nonspecific. There is one lesion that lies near the body of the corpus callosum on the right. The appearance of this lesion is more suspicious for the presence of a demyelinating process. However, the corpus callosum is otherwise noninvolved and no lesions are identified in the distribution of
the brain stem or middle cerebellar peduncles .Therefore, it is difficult to impart a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis for this patient.
There are no imaging findings to suggest recent or remote cerebral infarction.
Normal flow voids are noted in the major intracranial vascular structures.
The size and configuration of the ventricular system is within normal limits for stated age. The cortical sulci and cisternal
subarachnoid spaces appear normal. No focal brain stem or cerebellar lesion is identified.
IMPRESSION:
1. There is significant susceptibility artifact arising from the patient' s orthodontic braces. This makes assessment, particularly
in the middle and posterior cranial Fossa somewhat limited.
2. Several small foci of t2 prolongation are identified in the cerebral white matter as described. The appearance is nonspecific.
Such findings can be seen with multiple sclerosis, however, differential diagnostic considerations would also include
vasculitis, posttraumatic change, etc. there are no, specific diagnostic features that would raise one to consider a diagnosis
of demyelinating disease.
3. There is no evidence of previous stroke.
so it has been since June 30 2001 that all this started for me. Last visit to doc was Dec 26 2001to spinal specialist. before that Oct 2001 at neuro who just left me with a 'poss mild MS' ,,, nothing else suggested or follow ups recommended!
Boy do they EVER know how to leave you in the dark!!
So, I have had my roller coaster ride with back prob directly variable to the amount of stress and strain I put on it-- ie lifting,, walking,, sitting too long,, relates to how the numbness and pain present.
Its just So darn frustrating!!
I have MRI brain too I will post.
Docs just kept saying MRI dont warrant the degree symptoms I have.I went to a spine specialist who went over all MRI with me and said" I cant tell you what to do but I dont think its nec to have that lumbar puncture(meaning to see if MS) ".
I left it at that.
He said that b/c docs put diag on the MRI request, ie MC neuropathy, etc, that that is what the radiologist tries to accommodate on his report.
He said that also he felt radiologist also missed some small things that can cause my problems. He said the rad does not get to hear my entire history of sciatic back probs either.
here is the brain mri:
MRI OF THORACIC SPINE WITHOUT AND WITH CONTRAST
Clinical HX: Pain, Myelopathy, Multiple Sclerosis
TECHNIQUE
Sagittal T1,T2-weighted and inversion recover sequences were performed along with an axial T1 and T2- weighted sequence.
A post-gadolinium T1-weighted sagittal and axial sequence was also performed.
FINDINGS:
Overall the examination was unremarkable. There is felt to be no abnormal signal from the vertebral bodies or the spinal
canal. There were changes of slight disc space narrowing, but no definite evidence of focal disc protrusion or cord abutment.
No other specific abnormalities were identified.
IMPRESSION: Negative.
HEAD MRI WITHOUT AND WITH CONTRAST 10/19/01
indication: persistent Numbness right side of body extending from waist to toes.
TECHNIQUE: flair, axial and sagittal acquisitions. T2 weighted turbo spin echo axial acquisition. Ti weighted spin echo acquisitions both prior to (Axial plane) and following (axial and coronal plane) uneventful iv administration of omniscan.
FINDINGS:
There are no comparison studies available for review at this institution. This patient has orthodontic braces on the maxillary
teeth. There is significant, associated susceptibility artifact primarily in the distribution of the middle cranial fossa. This
makes evaluation somewhat limited. On the flair and t2 weighted turbo spin echo images note is made of multiple, small foci of T2 prolongation within the cerebral white matter bilaterally. At lest ten or twelve small focal lesions are identified, none of which
show any significant associated mass effect and none of which show enhancement on the postcontrast images. Most of the
lesions are distributed in a peripheral, almost subcortical location. The appearance is nonspecific. There is one lesion that lies near the body of the corpus callosum on the right. The appearance of this lesion is more suspicious for the presence of a demyelinating process. However, the corpus callosum is otherwise noninvolved and no lesions are identified in the distribution of
the brain stem or middle cerebellar peduncles .Therefore, it is difficult to impart a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis for this patient.
There are no imaging findings to suggest recent or remote cerebral infarction.
Normal flow voids are noted in the major intracranial vascular structures.
The size and configuration of the ventricular system is within normal limits for stated age. The cortical sulci and cisternal
subarachnoid spaces appear normal. No focal brain stem or cerebellar lesion is identified.
IMPRESSION:
1. There is significant susceptibility artifact arising from the patient' s orthodontic braces. This makes assessment, particularly
in the middle and posterior cranial Fossa somewhat limited.
2. Several small foci of t2 prolongation are identified in the cerebral white matter as described. The appearance is nonspecific.
Such findings can be seen with multiple sclerosis, however, differential diagnostic considerations would also include
vasculitis, posttraumatic change, etc. there are no, specific diagnostic features that would raise one to consider a diagnosis
of demyelinating disease.
3. There is no evidence of previous stroke.
so it has been since June 30 2001 that all this started for me. Last visit to doc was Dec 26 2001to spinal specialist. before that Oct 2001 at neuro who just left me with a 'poss mild MS' ,,, nothing else suggested or follow ups recommended!
Boy do they EVER know how to leave you in the dark!!
So, I have had my roller coaster ride with back prob directly variable to the amount of stress and strain I put on it-- ie lifting,, walking,, sitting too long,, relates to how the numbness and pain present.
Its just So darn frustrating!!
KeithEugeneW
02-03-2003, 08:19 PM
I'm glad I found this board, I was just reading all of the great info above and Niki47's remarks about other things being related to a cervical spinal compression (I have significant compression at C5-6 and C6-7):
"Do you have bowel or bladder "urgency"???
Do you have blood pressure problems?
Heart palpitations or wierd chest pains?
Sexual dysfunction?"
I had chalked the heart palpitations up as my imagination (or denial, take your pick). I only seem to have them when I lie down to go to sleep. I started having problems in the 4th category just under a year ago suddenly, and figured it was just my age catching up to me at 45. After reading all this, I guess I need to talk more to my Neurologist. I never made the connection because I was focused on my neck and arm pain and migraines (all of which got suddenly worse around the same time....Duh!!) If the shots work over the next month and a half, maybe those problems will disappear also. If not I guess I'll be joining all of you folks who are in that exclusive club with the cute little scar on the front of your necks!
"Do you have bowel or bladder "urgency"???
Do you have blood pressure problems?
Heart palpitations or wierd chest pains?
Sexual dysfunction?"
I had chalked the heart palpitations up as my imagination (or denial, take your pick). I only seem to have them when I lie down to go to sleep. I started having problems in the 4th category just under a year ago suddenly, and figured it was just my age catching up to me at 45. After reading all this, I guess I need to talk more to my Neurologist. I never made the connection because I was focused on my neck and arm pain and migraines (all of which got suddenly worse around the same time....Duh!!) If the shots work over the next month and a half, maybe those problems will disappear also. If not I guess I'll be joining all of you folks who are in that exclusive club with the cute little scar on the front of your necks!
Jeannie45
02-04-2003, 12:02 PM
I'm very new to all of this. I started having numbness in my finger tips right before Thanksgiving 2002. By Christmas it was up to my arm pits, along with losing the feeling in my feet. My legs were very "shakey" and it was getting increasing harder to walk. By the second week of January, I lost all feeling and my sense of taste in my mouth. It was like being shot with novacaine. During this month I had 2 MRI's and a EMG. I am now 6 days post op., and can't tell you how good I feel. The trade off was worth it to me. I haven't gotten all my feeling back yet, but they say it may take some time, due to the spinal cord compression . I can feel my feet now, all of my arms, and my pinkies and ring fingers. I also have the sensation of hot and cold back in my mouth, however the taste is not very acute yet.
My diagnosis was C4-5/C5-6 cervical spondylosis with myelopathy. Cervical stenosis, C4-5/C5-6. C6 and C7 radiculitis.
My cord was pinched flat at the 4-5, 5-6 areas, with loss of normal fluid around the cord at both of these levels.
On 1/29/03 I underwent a ACDF at C4-5/C5-6 with an allograft.
I know it's early yet, but as I said, (for me..) the surgery was well worth it, and while in the hospital, I had to take nothing stronger than tylenol.
I wish everyone out there luck, and the same sucess that I have found.
My diagnosis was C4-5/C5-6 cervical spondylosis with myelopathy. Cervical stenosis, C4-5/C5-6. C6 and C7 radiculitis.
My cord was pinched flat at the 4-5, 5-6 areas, with loss of normal fluid around the cord at both of these levels.
On 1/29/03 I underwent a ACDF at C4-5/C5-6 with an allograft.
I know it's early yet, but as I said, (for me..) the surgery was well worth it, and while in the hospital, I had to take nothing stronger than tylenol.
I wish everyone out there luck, and the same sucess that I have found.
Renee016
02-04-2003, 10:54 PM
Hi, Jeannie - welcome to the boards. What a very scary experience you've had :eek: but I am glad your feeling better. Thank goodness everyone in your case acted quickly - it sounds like it all happened so fast. I've had neck problems for four years now and never knew it would come to this. Could you give me a little info on the surgery you had because I will be having the same thing done in the next few weeks (have not scheduled a date yet). Did you use doner bone or your own? Are you in a soft or hard collar and how long do you have to wear it? When were you told you can return to work?
Please keep us all posted on your recovery and I hope you are feeling your old self again soon. http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/dance.gif
Renee :angel:
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1982 Fusion surgery for scoliosis with stainless steel Harrington Rod (T5 - L3) using pelvic bone for grafting
1999 Neck problems began
2001 Cervical Kyphosis
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 and burning - diagnosed with myelopathy and anterior cervical discectomy recommended.
Still looking for surgeon.
Please keep us all posted on your recovery and I hope you are feeling your old self again soon. http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/dance.gif
Renee :angel:
------------------
1982 Fusion surgery for scoliosis with stainless steel Harrington Rod (T5 - L3) using pelvic bone for grafting
1999 Neck problems began
2001 Cervical Kyphosis
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 and burning - diagnosed with myelopathy and anterior cervical discectomy recommended.
Still looking for surgeon.
Jeannie45
02-05-2003, 01:06 PM
Hi Renee!
The surgery is a piece of cake! I had no pain, except for a sore throat, and that's gone now (6 days post op.) They removed the C4-5, and the C5-6 disc's. They also did a decompressive laminectomy for the spinal stenosis. That in lamen's terms (no insult intended, but it helped me to know what they were doing), is to shave done some of the vertebre, around the area where my cord was being strangled, so they could make room for it to move around again. That will also allow the fluid to move back around that area, and give the cord some protection again. The surgery took about 4 hours. When I woke up, I had most of my feeling back. So far just the thumbs and the pointer fingers that are numb yet, but they are starting to tingle, which I'm sure is a sign that they are on their way back too!
I am glad to hear that you are going to schedule something soon. I was lucky to find a doctor who acted so quickly. He told me that in most cases he suggests therapy and injections first, but in my case I was too far gone for anything to work. An important factor in his decision, was the stenosis. Mine had progressed so far, it was strangulating my cord. He said the injections wouldn't help me there. They needed to open up my canal for relief.
I had already experienced surgery a couple times before, for some other things, so I wasn't afraid. I kind of knew what to expect.
I hope you will keep me posted on your progress, and what happens when you see the doctor. Until then, know that I am thinking about you, and you have a friend in your corner!
Jeannie45
The surgery is a piece of cake! I had no pain, except for a sore throat, and that's gone now (6 days post op.) They removed the C4-5, and the C5-6 disc's. They also did a decompressive laminectomy for the spinal stenosis. That in lamen's terms (no insult intended, but it helped me to know what they were doing), is to shave done some of the vertebre, around the area where my cord was being strangled, so they could make room for it to move around again. That will also allow the fluid to move back around that area, and give the cord some protection again. The surgery took about 4 hours. When I woke up, I had most of my feeling back. So far just the thumbs and the pointer fingers that are numb yet, but they are starting to tingle, which I'm sure is a sign that they are on their way back too!
I am glad to hear that you are going to schedule something soon. I was lucky to find a doctor who acted so quickly. He told me that in most cases he suggests therapy and injections first, but in my case I was too far gone for anything to work. An important factor in his decision, was the stenosis. Mine had progressed so far, it was strangulating my cord. He said the injections wouldn't help me there. They needed to open up my canal for relief.
I had already experienced surgery a couple times before, for some other things, so I wasn't afraid. I kind of knew what to expect.
I hope you will keep me posted on your progress, and what happens when you see the doctor. Until then, know that I am thinking about you, and you have a friend in your corner!
Jeannie45
Jeannie45
02-05-2003, 01:16 PM
Hi Renee, it's me again!
I forgot to answer one of your most important questions. I had the allograft (Using donor bone). My surgeon said he had done it both ways, but has listened to his patients. Everyone that has used their own bone, has had a much longer recovery time. Not for the neck area, but they have all told him that the worse part of the surgery, and the pain that they had, was from the area where the took the bone from the hip. I asked about chances of rejection if I used donor bone, and he said there was none. There are no live cells in the bone that they use. All the bone contains is minerals.
My sister had a fusion about 7 years ago on her C3-4, C4-5 disc's, and she chose to use her own bone. She said the same thing. She said the worst part of recovery for her was the hip area.
I hope this helps you in your decision. Talk to your doctor, and decide what will be right for you.
Take care, and I hope to hear from you soon.
Jeannie
I forgot to answer one of your most important questions. I had the allograft (Using donor bone). My surgeon said he had done it both ways, but has listened to his patients. Everyone that has used their own bone, has had a much longer recovery time. Not for the neck area, but they have all told him that the worse part of the surgery, and the pain that they had, was from the area where the took the bone from the hip. I asked about chances of rejection if I used donor bone, and he said there was none. There are no live cells in the bone that they use. All the bone contains is minerals.
My sister had a fusion about 7 years ago on her C3-4, C4-5 disc's, and she chose to use her own bone. She said the same thing. She said the worst part of recovery for her was the hip area.
I hope this helps you in your decision. Talk to your doctor, and decide what will be right for you.
Take care, and I hope to hear from you soon.
Jeannie