question regarding numbness

[The Manimal]

Hi All

A bit of history.... I had an MRI a few years back and found that there was a small bulge at L4\5, I was lucky enough to have private health cover and and had two epidural injections which resolved the pain issue. Since then i did have the occasional occurance of back pain which was eased with a couple of physio sessions. Then in december I had the worst back pain ever with severe sciatic pain. Couldn't drive, walk, sleep - the usual stuff. Doc prescribed mild pain killer and anti inflamitries. During this time I returned to the physio and after 8 weeks I am very lucky in that pain had pretty much disappeared - well as long as i behave myself. i paid to have a private MRI in march which found that the l5\s1 disc has now gone and has a large bulge. I am left with numbness down my right leg and foot with weakness, left side has numbness in thigh and occasionally in foot especially if i walk\stand for too long in a day. I also get bad cramping in hamstrings and calf on both legs. I do sometimes get very light sciatic pain when walking for longer distances or uphill. This usually comes on after the walk.

I still do the exercises that physio suggested a few times a day and have also been taking pilates instruction however this can sometimes cause lower back pain. i also go to the gym but restrict my self to the bike and occasionally the cross trainer - hate treadmill. I have tried swimming but found that it made numbness worse. I have also had an epidural which has not helped in finally resolving the issue. My physio has also suggested that i try MBT shoes. Has anyone had any experience with them?

Was wondering if any one has any further suggestions as even though i am no longer in pain i feel that i am extremely restricted in what activities i can complete and it does frustrate me loads!!! Was also wondering if this is as good as it gets and the numbness and weakness will always be there.

I am off to see the consultant on 10th Sept to see what they suggest for further treatment

Cheers
Stray

 

[blealofal]

hi strayduck....i had numbness after my back problems...and after over a year I still do in my toes and back of legs but the feeling very slowly comes back...well thats what my physio told me...she said it's due to the nerves going through so much etc.

as for the muscle weakness - i think that it takes time and exercise for that to feel better too.....
try and stay postive that you will get back to normal and don't let this become a part of you, best of luck x

 

[Happeh Gurl C:]

Strayduck How come it is affecting you in both legs ? did you get a reason for that??

 

[Pompal 09.]

Hi

I haven't had any explanation for the numbness in both sides and the second side has only became numb since an epidural. My MRI showed a large disc protusion to the right side that was impinging the nerves.

My physio hasn't really been able to explain however I am returning to the hospital so will ask the consultant when i do.

Cheers
Stray

 

[shadowweavers]

can you clarify

did you have back pain which is now better, and then you got numbness after the back pain got better ? As opposed to getting pain / numbness at the same time ?

tony

 

[Andreyx]

Hi

pain and numbness came together. With lots of help from the physio pain is now pretty much gone but am restricted in what i can do however numbness is still present.

 

[lgelvuntipyiqdezu]

Hi all

Have been to see the consultant today who explained that my heriation is large and central hence the reason why i am feeling some slight numbness to#
the left side.

She wants me to have a microdiscectomy. I am thinking it's the way to go as even the the pain is now minimal every day life activities are quite restrictive.

 

[Arion Tsuki]

if it's going to help then have the microdiscectomy life really is too short.
best of luck and keep us posted x

 

[bobcat11eob]

well this has been a surprising week. i got a call on moday asking if i would be available to have my op!! my employer was happy for me to do it so i was admitted on wednesday and had the op midday on thursday. i have been fine pain wise i bit achy but nothing major. will hopefully be able to go home today. havent been given much info post op physio wise which i think is a wasted opportunity for the hospital.will speak to my physio. i am happy its done and feel extremely positive.