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1 reply [Last post]
November 5, 2009 - 6:53pm
Anonymous
L5S1 Microdiscectomy Thoughts and Experiences - 1.5 Years Later

I had microdiscectomy 1.5 years ago on L5S1 by an orthopedic surgeon. The surgery followed an unsuccessful attempt at an epidural. Pain is gone but I'm still dealing with numbness on the back of my right thigh (moderate), right calf (severe) and the right side of my right foot (severe).

In addition to the numbness and more concerning to me is the severe cramping I get in my right leg or foot and persistent muscle spasms in my right leg. I can watch my calf muscles "quiver" when at rest. The cramps wake me up at night (probably 3X per week on average) and can happen without warning just walking or sitting. The cramping did not start until about a year ago.

Do those of you that have had this procedure done think that these are issues those that I'll have to deal with forever, or should I go back to the doctor to have it evaluated? I've been told by some to go to a neurosurgeon or neurologist for my "second round" of opinions.

Thoughts? Comments?

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November 5, 2009 - 6:57pm
#1
J.J.Grey
User offline. Last seen 34 weeks 1 day ago. Offline
Joined: 06/23/2008
Posts: 3026
Points: 6166
Second Opinion

I am almost 2 years out from my microD at L3/L4 and I have not had any of the muscle type issues that you have mentioned. I do have a square numb patch on my right shin and at times my ankles "go out on me". If I were in your position I would definitely go back for reevaluation. There are nerve tests that can be done to see if you might have some nerve damage. A neurologist would probably be a very good place to start. Good luck and please keep us posted.

_____________

I am in no way associated with the medical field. Anything that I post comes from personal experience only.
DDD, Facet Arthropathy, DJD,Collapsed Disc, Sleep Apnea
PT, Epidurals, Facet Blocks,Medial Branch Block, Rhizotomy,Discogram,Annular Tare L3/L4 Endoscopic MicroD and PLDD,
Methadone, Percocet, Baclofen, Welbutrin

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