Elaine
09-10-2002, 03:00 AM
I had L5 fusion with hardware two years ago. At that time and still, I have a 3mm subluxation in my neck plus a large bone spur in the cervical canal at C5/C6.
I also have herniated thoracic discs from T10- to L1.
T12 is abutting the surface of the spinal cord.
Question- Which of this would cause leg numbness all the way from my hip to the bottom of my foot? I have heard some say that cervical problems cause leg problems. One doctor told me it is always lumbar that causes leg numbness. If that is the case, it could be the hardware or it could be the L1 that is also herniated. Would like to know your experiences with leg numbness and the cause of it.
Thanks,
Elaine
I also have herniated thoracic discs from T10- to L1.
T12 is abutting the surface of the spinal cord.
Question- Which of this would cause leg numbness all the way from my hip to the bottom of my foot? I have heard some say that cervical problems cause leg problems. One doctor told me it is always lumbar that causes leg numbness. If that is the case, it could be the hardware or it could be the L1 that is also herniated. Would like to know your experiences with leg numbness and the cause of it.
Thanks,
Elaine
Sponsor
scottieK
09-10-2002, 06:12 AM
Dear Elaine,
I have had three fusions and a laminectimy. Approx. 2-3 years after I started to have complete loss of feeling in my left leg and when this would happen I usually would fall. I had physical therapy on that leg which was aimed at breaking up possible scar tissue where they took bone out for the fusions. It does nothappen very much any more - just mild numbness if there is such a thing. so I hope this helps you with your question. I think this might be your problem because the scar tissue bound up the nerve you write about.
I have had three fusions and a laminectimy. Approx. 2-3 years after I started to have complete loss of feeling in my left leg and when this would happen I usually would fall. I had physical therapy on that leg which was aimed at breaking up possible scar tissue where they took bone out for the fusions. It does nothappen very much any more - just mild numbness if there is such a thing. so I hope this helps you with your question. I think this might be your problem because the scar tissue bound up the nerve you write about.
scottieK
09-10-2002, 06:12 AM
Dear Elaine,
I have had three fusions and a laminectimy. Approx. 2-3 years after I started to have complete loss of feeling in my left leg and when this would happen I usually would fall. I had physical therapy on that leg which was aimed at breaking up possible scar tissue where they took bone out for the fusions. It does nothappen very much any more - just mild numbness if there is such a thing. so I hope this helps you with your question. I think this might be your problem because the scar tissue bound up the nerve you write about.
I have had three fusions and a laminectimy. Approx. 2-3 years after I started to have complete loss of feeling in my left leg and when this would happen I usually would fall. I had physical therapy on that leg which was aimed at breaking up possible scar tissue where they took bone out for the fusions. It does nothappen very much any more - just mild numbness if there is such a thing. so I hope this helps you with your question. I think this might be your problem because the scar tissue bound up the nerve you write about.
DavyD
09-10-2002, 08:34 AM
Hi Elaine,
I have just undergone surgery (Please see below) C6 Vertebrectomy, and my symptoms were, numbness both legs from feet to hip and on left side up to mid chest area.
I have had a 70% reduction in the numbness so far post op.... and feel great :)
It might be your problem could stem from your C6 spur.
Not being a Dr,that is my opinion.
http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/heart.gif to ALL
Davy
------------------
Had C6 Vertebrectomy,ACDF with Decompression,Titanium Plate and Screws (MRI Compatible) 7th Aug 2002
Own bone from (R) Iliac Crest.
Doing Great!!!
I have just undergone surgery (Please see below) C6 Vertebrectomy, and my symptoms were, numbness both legs from feet to hip and on left side up to mid chest area.
I have had a 70% reduction in the numbness so far post op.... and feel great :)
It might be your problem could stem from your C6 spur.
Not being a Dr,that is my opinion.
http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/heart.gif to ALL
Davy
------------------
Had C6 Vertebrectomy,ACDF with Decompression,Titanium Plate and Screws (MRI Compatible) 7th Aug 2002
Own bone from (R) Iliac Crest.
Doing Great!!!
Elaine
09-10-2002, 12:53 PM
Scottie & Davy,
It could be either or!!! I had one epidural in my lower back and it was tough to get the needle in due to adhesions from the fusion. The only thing is the numbness didn't even go completely away after the fusion and I have always had leg pain. I am seeing a neuro on Thursday, will see what he has to say.
Thanks for your replies.
Davy, hope you have good luck with your surgery and things keep getting better and better.
Elaine
It could be either or!!! I had one epidural in my lower back and it was tough to get the needle in due to adhesions from the fusion. The only thing is the numbness didn't even go completely away after the fusion and I have always had leg pain. I am seeing a neuro on Thursday, will see what he has to say.
Thanks for your replies.
Davy, hope you have good luck with your surgery and things keep getting better and better.
Elaine
DavyD
09-10-2002, 03:18 PM
Hi Elaine,
Thank you for your kind words and wishes, Please let us know how you get on with your Neuro on Thursday, I would like to follow this if you don't mind!
http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/heart.gif to you and yours,
Davy
------------------
Had C6 Vertebrectomy,ACDF with Decompression,Titanium Plate and Screws (MRI Compatible) 7th Aug 2002
Own bone from (R) Iliac Crest.
Doing Great!!!
Thank you for your kind words and wishes, Please let us know how you get on with your Neuro on Thursday, I would like to follow this if you don't mind!
http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/heart.gif to you and yours,
Davy
------------------
Had C6 Vertebrectomy,ACDF with Decompression,Titanium Plate and Screws (MRI Compatible) 7th Aug 2002
Own bone from (R) Iliac Crest.
Doing Great!!!
scottieK
09-11-2002, 08:16 AM
Ditto Elaine!
Elaine
09-12-2002, 01:43 AM
Scotty and Davee,
Went to my primary care today and he said I am wasting my time seeing a neurologist. So I cancelled the appointment and seeing a ortho spine doctor in two weeks. I saw this doctor in January and he said the only way he would know what is causing the leg numbness is exploritory surgery. I know I have adhesions and a bone spur where I had the fusion so since things have not gotten better with epidurals and pain management I guess I will put myself through another surgery. I will keep you posted in, thanks for asking.
Elaine
Went to my primary care today and he said I am wasting my time seeing a neurologist. So I cancelled the appointment and seeing a ortho spine doctor in two weeks. I saw this doctor in January and he said the only way he would know what is causing the leg numbness is exploritory surgery. I know I have adhesions and a bone spur where I had the fusion so since things have not gotten better with epidurals and pain management I guess I will put myself through another surgery. I will keep you posted in, thanks for asking.
Elaine
scottieK
09-12-2002, 07:32 AM
Dear Elaine, sounds as if you've decided that your doc can help. Do you trust him? Has he given you an idea of what he will do if he finds something major?
In the best case senario he would go in and do another clean up job with as little interference possible.
The worst he can do is create another area for scar tissue. If I were a surgeon now I would approach every job as microsurgery. My surgeon doesn't usually discuss technique but that's another story sweet heart.
Have you tried having physio as I wrote about earlier?
It took a couple of months before I could tell a difference but it is working. I just had a thought about the spur- does the xray show any growths?
Make a list for him and if you can't talk very well during your visit (for whatever reason) I put the list on the desk between me and him so he can see you have more than one question. I don't have a great record with doctors but at least they have seen my questions!
Please let us know how you are. All the best Kathy
In the best case senario he would go in and do another clean up job with as little interference possible.
The worst he can do is create another area for scar tissue. If I were a surgeon now I would approach every job as microsurgery. My surgeon doesn't usually discuss technique but that's another story sweet heart.
Have you tried having physio as I wrote about earlier?
It took a couple of months before I could tell a difference but it is working. I just had a thought about the spur- does the xray show any growths?
Make a list for him and if you can't talk very well during your visit (for whatever reason) I put the list on the desk between me and him so he can see you have more than one question. I don't have a great record with doctors but at least they have seen my questions!
Please let us know how you are. All the best Kathy
meloco
09-12-2002, 11:29 AM
Elaine
I am brand spanking new to this board. I have been experiencing symptoms for three months now and have scheduled ACDF surgery for next Friday and have been reading the these posts for some time now and I have found them to be invaluable. My symtoms have been weakness ,burning sensations,tingling,numbness and just about everything you can name from my torso down to my toes. After two MRIs and consultations with a neurologist and two neurosurgeons it has been confirmed that it is from two fairly seriously herniated cervical disks.
What has prompted me to post is that you said your PCP told you it was a waste of time to seek the advice of a neurologist. I was wonderting if he/she elaborated on that. I was always under the impression that when numbness or any kind of sensory deficit was involved that one should seek the advice of a neurological specialist. If your symptoms are a loss of sensation anywhere then I think you should seriously consider going to a neurologist soon or press your PCP to explain why you should not.
I am brand spanking new to this board. I have been experiencing symptoms for three months now and have scheduled ACDF surgery for next Friday and have been reading the these posts for some time now and I have found them to be invaluable. My symtoms have been weakness ,burning sensations,tingling,numbness and just about everything you can name from my torso down to my toes. After two MRIs and consultations with a neurologist and two neurosurgeons it has been confirmed that it is from two fairly seriously herniated cervical disks.
What has prompted me to post is that you said your PCP told you it was a waste of time to seek the advice of a neurologist. I was wonderting if he/she elaborated on that. I was always under the impression that when numbness or any kind of sensory deficit was involved that one should seek the advice of a neurological specialist. If your symptoms are a loss of sensation anywhere then I think you should seriously consider going to a neurologist soon or press your PCP to explain why you should not.
scottieK
09-13-2002, 07:11 AM
welcome, just a thought. Most Dr.'s in my experience shift you from place with the thought of how he could write that referal. If he can not state something reasonable to justify sending her then he won't.
I do not think they say "because she wants to"- the insurance people will not have it either.
so she will need to state what she wants from him.
Cheers BTW I am not judging her need.
I do not think they say "because she wants to"- the insurance people will not have it either.
so she will need to state what she wants from him.
Cheers BTW I am not judging her need.
Nanner
09-13-2002, 09:47 AM
My take on the comment by Elaine's PCP is this-if you already know it is a nerve problem and where the problem originates, you need a neuroSURGEON, not a neurologist. Perhaps the point was she needs to talk to a doctor, whether a neurosurgeon or an ortopedic specialist in the back, who will operate and take care of her.
The neurologist could diagnose, but not cure, her problem. Perhaps that was the point?
The neurologist could diagnose, but not cure, her problem. Perhaps that was the point?
Elaine
09-28-2002, 02:08 AM
Davy, Kathy, Nanner,
Due to the fact, I misbehaved http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/rolleyes.gifI couldn't post for awhile.
Anyway Nanner, you are absolutely right on your assumption.
Davy, Kathy,
I saw the ortho on Wednesday and he said the cervical MRI also showed a herniation at C5/C6 but didn't think this was my problem. L4 was bulging at the time I had the L5 fusion and he feels that the L4 has probably herniated. I am scheduled for a MRI, discogram, and EMG. If the L4 is herniated, I am going to have another fusion. The L1 is herniated, along with four in my T-spine. He said I am dealing with three areas of my spine and all my muscles are in spasm because of pain.
Yes, I trust this doctor. I had a friend who just had surgery by him and she came out very well. I let her go first, as I wasn't brave enough. Fine friend I am huh???? (very cautious)
In case you are wondering how I got so screwed up? Car wreck, hit broadside by someone going 70mph. I am lucky to have lived so I guess I count my blessings that I am still alive and have pain up the $$$!!!!!
I better be careful or I will be sitting on the bench.
Take care,
Elaine
Due to the fact, I misbehaved http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/rolleyes.gifI couldn't post for awhile.
Anyway Nanner, you are absolutely right on your assumption.
Davy, Kathy,
I saw the ortho on Wednesday and he said the cervical MRI also showed a herniation at C5/C6 but didn't think this was my problem. L4 was bulging at the time I had the L5 fusion and he feels that the L4 has probably herniated. I am scheduled for a MRI, discogram, and EMG. If the L4 is herniated, I am going to have another fusion. The L1 is herniated, along with four in my T-spine. He said I am dealing with three areas of my spine and all my muscles are in spasm because of pain.
Yes, I trust this doctor. I had a friend who just had surgery by him and she came out very well. I let her go first, as I wasn't brave enough. Fine friend I am huh???? (very cautious)
In case you are wondering how I got so screwed up? Car wreck, hit broadside by someone going 70mph. I am lucky to have lived so I guess I count my blessings that I am still alive and have pain up the $$$!!!!!
I better be careful or I will be sitting on the bench.
Take care,
Elaine
Elaine
09-29-2002, 04:39 PM
Oliver,
Thanks for your reply on my other thread. If you could please let me know what your opinion is of my middle back. I posted about it on the thread titled, Davy, Belle, and whoever posts here.
Thanks,
Elaine
[This message has been edited by Elaine (edited 09-29-2002).]
Thanks for your reply on my other thread. If you could please let me know what your opinion is of my middle back. I posted about it on the thread titled, Davy, Belle, and whoever posts here.
Thanks,
Elaine
[This message has been edited by Elaine (edited 09-29-2002).]
DavyD
09-30-2002, 08:06 PM
Hi Elaine,
I am surprised that your ortho thought that C5/6 couldn't be the problem given that C6 was indeed my main problem.. 70% reduction after surgey and still hopeful of more :) I just hope and pray that he knows what he is doing and that other areas of your spine are causing the numbness.
Sorry I can't help with the mid back... Over to Oliver :) that's your dept my friend.
http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/heart.gif to you and ALL
Davy
p.s. Thank you for your kind words and wishes Elaine :)
------------------
Had C6 Vertebrectomy,ACDF with Decompression,Titanium Plate and Screws (MRI Compatible) 7th Aug 2002
Own bone from (R) Iliac Crest.
Doing Great!!!
I am surprised that your ortho thought that C5/6 couldn't be the problem given that C6 was indeed my main problem.. 70% reduction after surgey and still hopeful of more :) I just hope and pray that he knows what he is doing and that other areas of your spine are causing the numbness.
Sorry I can't help with the mid back... Over to Oliver :) that's your dept my friend.
http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/heart.gif to you and ALL
Davy
p.s. Thank you for your kind words and wishes Elaine :)
------------------
Had C6 Vertebrectomy,ACDF with Decompression,Titanium Plate and Screws (MRI Compatible) 7th Aug 2002
Own bone from (R) Iliac Crest.
Doing Great!!!
Elaine
10-08-2002, 10:15 AM
Davy,
The ortho said leg pain and numbness are "usually" from the L4 and L5 discs. I guess that is why he is ordering the discogram, MRI, and EMG. I am terrified of what people say about the discogram but I guess it can't be any worse than the pain I feel everyday.(or can it???)
I wish it was just one area of my back, dealing with all three is a killer. One day, one will feel better, but then the other area rears its ugly head, there is no relief. I have never been a suicidal person, thank god, but I can understand how some would just end it all.
Tell Elaine hi, she sure has a pretty name :p
Take care,
Elaine
[This message has been edited by Elaine (edited 10-08-2002).]
The ortho said leg pain and numbness are "usually" from the L4 and L5 discs. I guess that is why he is ordering the discogram, MRI, and EMG. I am terrified of what people say about the discogram but I guess it can't be any worse than the pain I feel everyday.(or can it???)
I wish it was just one area of my back, dealing with all three is a killer. One day, one will feel better, but then the other area rears its ugly head, there is no relief. I have never been a suicidal person, thank god, but I can understand how some would just end it all.
Tell Elaine hi, she sure has a pretty name :p
Take care,
Elaine
[This message has been edited by Elaine (edited 10-08-2002).]
kathym43
10-08-2002, 11:12 AM
Hi Elaine, I too, go to my neuro on Thurs. I have herniated c-5 and c-6 with slight spinal stenosis. I also have slightly herniated L-5. He said I should not experience and symptoms from L-5. However, I do have pain in my bottom and a numb foot. I am wondering if my spinal stenosis has gotten worse and is giving me pain in my bottom and numbness in my foot. It all seems like a guessing game sometimes. I struggle everday, I can't do too much or I'll pay later. Take care Elaine, I feel for you!!!!
Elaine
10-08-2002, 11:17 AM
Kathy,
I have tailbone pain too, I think that is what you are referring to? I had an epidural steroid shot earlier this year and it was given right under my tailbone. It was horrible and didn't do a thing except make the tailbone pain worse, now I can't even sit on it. Just a guess but if you have butt pain and a numb foot I would bet it is the L5, no matter what the doctor says. Maybe you should get a second opinion.
Take care,
Elaine
I have tailbone pain too, I think that is what you are referring to? I had an epidural steroid shot earlier this year and it was given right under my tailbone. It was horrible and didn't do a thing except make the tailbone pain worse, now I can't even sit on it. Just a guess but if you have butt pain and a numb foot I would bet it is the L5, no matter what the doctor says. Maybe you should get a second opinion.
Take care,
Elaine
Elaine
10-28-2002, 02:38 PM
An update on this mess!
I had my MRI last week but haven't gotten the results yet. I also had the EMG test on my right leg. If that wasn't a "JOLTING" experience!! She kept trying to distract me, asked what my husband did for a living. I said, "he is an electrician and I wish he would unplug your machine"!!!!
Anyway the test was negative for nerve damage. Still I have numbness in my leg. I don't know anymore than I did before, except that there is no nerve damage. I am having the dreaded discogram on Wednesday and I am scared $$$$$$$$!!!!! How bad are these? I thought the lightning storm in my leg was bad enough.
Elaine
PS
Davy,
I just reread your upper post. Maybe the reason the doctor thinks the numbness is from my lower back is because he is "only" a lumbar surgeon. I better think about this one....
I had my MRI last week but haven't gotten the results yet. I also had the EMG test on my right leg. If that wasn't a "JOLTING" experience!! She kept trying to distract me, asked what my husband did for a living. I said, "he is an electrician and I wish he would unplug your machine"!!!!
Anyway the test was negative for nerve damage. Still I have numbness in my leg. I don't know anymore than I did before, except that there is no nerve damage. I am having the dreaded discogram on Wednesday and I am scared $$$$$$$$!!!!! How bad are these? I thought the lightning storm in my leg was bad enough.
Elaine
PS
Davy,
I just reread your upper post. Maybe the reason the doctor thinks the numbness is from my lower back is because he is "only" a lumbar surgeon. I better think about this one....
DavyD
10-28-2002, 05:10 PM
Hi Elaine :)
Sorry your EMG was an unplesant experience :(
I hope the MRI you had taken shows up where the damage is, and hopefully will enable you to best make your decision :)
Let me know how it goes for you Elaine, will follow this with interest.
That is also why I suggested a NeuroSurgeon as he looks at the whole spine, Cervical,Thorasic and Lumbar etc... :nono: Not Just Lumbar..
http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/heart.gif to you and yours,
Davy
------------------
Had C6 Vertebrectomy,ACDF with Decompression,Titanium Plate and Screws (MRI Compatible) 7th Aug 2002
Own bone from (R) Iliac Crest.
Doing Great!!!
But still with some Numbness
[This message has been edited by DavyD (edited 10-29-2002).]
Sorry your EMG was an unplesant experience :(
I hope the MRI you had taken shows up where the damage is, and hopefully will enable you to best make your decision :)
Let me know how it goes for you Elaine, will follow this with interest.
That is also why I suggested a NeuroSurgeon as he looks at the whole spine, Cervical,Thorasic and Lumbar etc... :nono: Not Just Lumbar..
http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/heart.gif to you and yours,
Davy
------------------
Had C6 Vertebrectomy,ACDF with Decompression,Titanium Plate and Screws (MRI Compatible) 7th Aug 2002
Own bone from (R) Iliac Crest.
Doing Great!!!
But still with some Numbness
[This message has been edited by DavyD (edited 10-29-2002).]
Elaine
10-30-2002, 08:45 PM
I must be a baby, I actually cried during the discogram. It was every bit as bad as I thought it was going to be. It is supposed to feel like your pain and believe me it did.
The L4 disc above the one I had fused two years ago is the "demon". Herniated and leaking on the nerve roots. L3 has an anterior fissure, whatever that is but I don't have any symptoms from that one. Since I am one blessed with electric shock type pain there is no question about the fusion. I can deal with pain but I can't deal with "electrocution". I have a good doctor and feel very comfortable with him but I dread the recovery as I know just what I am in for. Been there, done that.....
Anyway that is my latest update. See my ortho on Nov 8th so I am sure we will discuss the big "F" word(fusion) at that time.
Take care,
Elaine
[This message has been edited by Elaine (edited 10-30-2002).]
The L4 disc above the one I had fused two years ago is the "demon". Herniated and leaking on the nerve roots. L3 has an anterior fissure, whatever that is but I don't have any symptoms from that one. Since I am one blessed with electric shock type pain there is no question about the fusion. I can deal with pain but I can't deal with "electrocution". I have a good doctor and feel very comfortable with him but I dread the recovery as I know just what I am in for. Been there, done that.....
Anyway that is my latest update. See my ortho on Nov 8th so I am sure we will discuss the big "F" word(fusion) at that time.
Take care,
Elaine
[This message has been edited by Elaine (edited 10-30-2002).]
mothmin
10-30-2002, 09:16 PM
Elaine I have hemorage at c-7, and my lumbar emg came back negitive. I have recently begun to have numbness in bottom of my right foot. Also in the begining of my troubles I had a weird pain in my left foot that hurt my finger at the same time, dr's were stumped, but they agree my only problem is cervical
Elaine
10-30-2002, 11:13 PM
mothnin,
The true test is the discogram, wow. My EMG came back negative too but at the same time my leg still has numbness. The negative test means you have no nerve damage but you can still have numbness. At least that is how they explained it to me.
Elaine
The true test is the discogram, wow. My EMG came back negative too but at the same time my leg still has numbness. The negative test means you have no nerve damage but you can still have numbness. At least that is how they explained it to me.
Elaine
Elaine
11-10-2002, 02:27 AM
Davy, Belle,etc,
The results are in. The discogram showed a torn L3 but no symptoms from this one. L4 is torn and leaking on my nerve roots. Doctor said he will remove my rods and screws from the L5 fusion, it did fuse and they are not needed anymore. He will fuse the L4 and I am going to live happily ever after.... :)
Get this...My SS hearing is sheduled for Dec3 and I am scheduled for surgery on Dec 4th. How do you suppose that is going to work??? I am going to postpone the surgery till after Christmas as I just don't want to deal with it through Christmas.
Elaine
The results are in. The discogram showed a torn L3 but no symptoms from this one. L4 is torn and leaking on my nerve roots. Doctor said he will remove my rods and screws from the L5 fusion, it did fuse and they are not needed anymore. He will fuse the L4 and I am going to live happily ever after.... :)
Get this...My SS hearing is sheduled for Dec3 and I am scheduled for surgery on Dec 4th. How do you suppose that is going to work??? I am going to postpone the surgery till after Christmas as I just don't want to deal with it through Christmas.
Elaine
DavyD
11-10-2002, 04:41 PM
Hi Elaine :)
Good to hear from you my friend.
I am just glad that they have found the cause of your pain and that something can be done about it.
Having another surgery is no joke, but looking at the long term outcome I would have it no problem.
You relax now and enjoy yourself up to Christmas and beyond.
:wave: for now Elaine,
http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/heart.gif to you and yours,
Davy
------------------
Had C6 Vertebrectomy,ACDF with Decompression,Titanium Plate and Screws (MRI Compatible) 7th Aug 2002
Own bone from (R) Iliac Crest.
Doing Great!!!
But still with some Numbness
Good to hear from you my friend.
I am just glad that they have found the cause of your pain and that something can be done about it.
Having another surgery is no joke, but looking at the long term outcome I would have it no problem.
You relax now and enjoy yourself up to Christmas and beyond.
:wave: for now Elaine,
http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/heart.gif to you and yours,
Davy
------------------
Had C6 Vertebrectomy,ACDF with Decompression,Titanium Plate and Screws (MRI Compatible) 7th Aug 2002
Own bone from (R) Iliac Crest.
Doing Great!!!
But still with some Numbness
Elaine
02-12-2003, 01:25 AM
LOOKS LIKE I LIVED!!!! I am six weeks post-op and doing pretty well. Removed the hardware from the fusion I had two years ago and did the same procedure on the L4/L5 disc. I requested my hardware and you would never believe what it actually looks like. I saw it in x-rays and didn't believe it, and I still don't believe it. Can't imagine this stuff was and still is in my back.
Anyway, I still have a lot of soreness but no back pain. Leg numbness comes and goes but not constant like it was. I think the nerve needs time to heal after being pinched for so long. I have a huge scar, worse than last time and the wonderful TSLO that I have to wear for three months.I look like the incredible hulk but the brace is a godsend. Gives me a lot of support and the best news of all is my tailbone pain is gone. I can sit on my butt for the first time in two years. :) Which reminds me, I better go, not suppose to sit long.
Take care,
Elaine
Anyway, I still have a lot of soreness but no back pain. Leg numbness comes and goes but not constant like it was. I think the nerve needs time to heal after being pinched for so long. I have a huge scar, worse than last time and the wonderful TSLO that I have to wear for three months.I look like the incredible hulk but the brace is a godsend. Gives me a lot of support and the best news of all is my tailbone pain is gone. I can sit on my butt for the first time in two years. :) Which reminds me, I better go, not suppose to sit long.
Take care,
Elaine
melanie dawn
02-12-2003, 02:13 PM
Hi Elaine,
How good for you. You must be so relieved. Here is to a speedy recovery, and a return to physical strength and well being.
Take care of yourself,
Mel
How good for you. You must be so relieved. Here is to a speedy recovery, and a return to physical strength and well being.
Take care of yourself,
Mel
nanna02
02-13-2003, 07:18 AM
Hi Elaine and Mel ! :wave:
Good to see things are better for you ! :)I haven't been on here for a while..
.. I have been plodding on as best as poss,.. things for me are still no different, can hardly walk now, still on crutches . .. gotta go for Assessment in a few weeks to look at my Spinal/Walking problems .. at least that's what my GP said .. we'll see !? I hate the Rehab place ... :eek:
Any way , I must go , but nice to see you are ok and hi Mel !.. Love Belle NZ xxx
------------------
A Friend!
Good to see things are better for you ! :)I haven't been on here for a while..
.. I have been plodding on as best as poss,.. things for me are still no different, can hardly walk now, still on crutches . .. gotta go for Assessment in a few weeks to look at my Spinal/Walking problems .. at least that's what my GP said .. we'll see !? I hate the Rehab place ... :eek:
Any way , I must go , but nice to see you are ok and hi Mel !.. Love Belle NZ xxx
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A Friend!
Elaine
02-13-2003, 03:50 PM
Belle & Mel,
I haven't been on here much either. I had my surgery on Dec.30th. When the lights came on or I woke up, whatever, I thought the party was over and it was New Years. I was telling the doctor how great he was for coming to the bar and celebrating with me and how could I go to surgery, plowed? Once I realized what was going on, I was so embarrassed...He must think I am a real lush and I don't even drink....Too funny.
Anyway I think my low back is lots better and feel better than after the first fusion. This one was a lot easier to deal with, maybe because I knew what to expect. I still have problems in my upper back but will leave well enough alone as I am not ready to deal with that one yet.
Anyway take care, wish things were better for you.
Elaine
I haven't been on here much either. I had my surgery on Dec.30th. When the lights came on or I woke up, whatever, I thought the party was over and it was New Years. I was telling the doctor how great he was for coming to the bar and celebrating with me and how could I go to surgery, plowed? Once I realized what was going on, I was so embarrassed...He must think I am a real lush and I don't even drink....Too funny.
Anyway I think my low back is lots better and feel better than after the first fusion. This one was a lot easier to deal with, maybe because I knew what to expect. I still have problems in my upper back but will leave well enough alone as I am not ready to deal with that one yet.
Anyway take care, wish things were better for you.
Elaine
nanna02
02-14-2003, 09:34 PM
Hey Elaine !
I had to laugh out loud at you thinking you were at a New Years Party ! that must've been SO funny!!
I said some funny things on waking up too , :D
( so my Daughter told me later .. she was embarassed LOL!) but it's good that you are feeling a difference and decided to leave well alone for a while.Take it slow if you can.
Want to add on here .. these last 3 days for some reason I have been feeling a bit better during the daytime walking around the house ( don't know about outside yet) .. my leg doesn't feel so badly "stiff and gammy" as it was , I don't know why , but I'm too scared to say it to anyone in case it goes back to being bad again! and I'll feel such a fraud !?..
I'll just wait and see .. a waiting game .. !!
Go for a new Brace for my leg on Monday .. so I hope to walk even better after that !! http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/dance.gif..
The pain is basically under control most times .. amazing how we have to tune in to our bodies and know exactly what to take and when ?..
Also..
Anyone who reads this message who remembers me ,
"HI" to You All !! :wave:
Hope you are All doing well !! or the best you can .. :) I know it's not easy !! ..
been there done that !!..but all our friends on here will support you !
Love to You Elaine and Mel.. and Oliver if you read this .. thinking of you too.!!
Plus, I'm gonna be a Grandma this week ! :angel: exciting !
Love Belle NZ :)
I had to laugh out loud at you thinking you were at a New Years Party ! that must've been SO funny!!
I said some funny things on waking up too , :D
( so my Daughter told me later .. she was embarassed LOL!) but it's good that you are feeling a difference and decided to leave well alone for a while.Take it slow if you can.
Want to add on here .. these last 3 days for some reason I have been feeling a bit better during the daytime walking around the house ( don't know about outside yet) .. my leg doesn't feel so badly "stiff and gammy" as it was , I don't know why , but I'm too scared to say it to anyone in case it goes back to being bad again! and I'll feel such a fraud !?..
I'll just wait and see .. a waiting game .. !!
Go for a new Brace for my leg on Monday .. so I hope to walk even better after that !! http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/dance.gif..
The pain is basically under control most times .. amazing how we have to tune in to our bodies and know exactly what to take and when ?..
Also..
Anyone who reads this message who remembers me ,
"HI" to You All !! :wave:
Hope you are All doing well !! or the best you can .. :) I know it's not easy !! ..
been there done that !!..but all our friends on here will support you !
Love to You Elaine and Mel.. and Oliver if you read this .. thinking of you too.!!
Plus, I'm gonna be a Grandma this week ! :angel: exciting !
Love Belle NZ :)
Debbie2
02-14-2003, 11:00 PM
Hello dear Belle,
Of course I remember you... read all your posts.
Glad you have been feeling better these past few days...and good luck to you for your brace on Monday. My very best wishes and sincerest thoughts and prayers are with you...
Debbie2
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Debbie2
ACDF fusion (c5c6) with titanium plate and screws using donor bone -
September 4, 2002.
Of course I remember you... read all your posts.
Glad you have been feeling better these past few days...and good luck to you for your brace on Monday. My very best wishes and sincerest thoughts and prayers are with you...
Debbie2
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Debbie2
ACDF fusion (c5c6) with titanium plate and screws using donor bone -
September 4, 2002.
fatcat
02-14-2003, 11:39 PM
Do any of you get a 'rubber band ' feeling around your ankle ?
I get this occ,, along with the ever present numbness in the leg and foot. Depends on what position I am in.
I get this occ,, along with the ever present numbness in the leg and foot. Depends on what position I am in.

