Your opinion, Please??? - Spinal Cord Disorders Message Board

Elaine · 09-10-2002, 12:00 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

scottieK · 09-10-2002, 03:12 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.

scottieK · 09-10-2002, 03:12 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.

DavyD · 09-10-2002, 05:34 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.

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, 09:53 AM

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