Thank you for your insight and expert opinion. I am having surgery on 9/4/24. Lamenectomy with spinal fusion L5-S1, nerve decompression. Highly recommended neurosurgeon. Im 50 and have been through 5 MRI'S and 16 years of back pain, bulged disks, nerve damage in lft leg, spinal fractures, spondylolisthesis, arthritis. I hope the pain isn't too bad after the surgery. I feel like a 70 year old man trapped in a 50 year old body. You gave me the courage to continue to move forward. Thank you
I’m 68. I have really bad arthritis all through my spine. I did have a lumbar fusion in 2011. It was L3 to S1 and they consider a failed surgery now. They chose to go in through the stomach so doctors tend to be very leery of doing that since I have moved. I saw a surgeon in Ann Arbor Michigan and he told me the most he could do was a spinal fusion from L2 to the pelvic bone. He didn’t think there was much hope even to that. After he said that I chose to get the Spinal Cord Stimulator and that has helped at night with pain, but I can’t use it during the day without it buckling my legs. I’ve been getting cervical epidurals and today I just got a lumbar epidural in several different places. I guess now I have developed scoliosis and my knees need knee replacement. One knee is bowing, and the other knee is pushing in so the whole leg is pushing in. It’s causing horrible groin pain. I have no idea what when you explained living completely around Pain I’ve been doing that for years now. Now I can walk straight on my left leg but the way my leg is blowing in on the other side. It’s making it feel like it’s 7:29 longer so I can’t use that leg, that has just happened within the last few months and it’s scary. Thank you so much. I’m not sure if anyone can offer advice but I just appreciate you listening. God bless you and thank you.
@ it’s hard to explain past that. When I’m trying to walk, it’s like the nerves don’t agree. It’s almost like when a kid comes up behind you and hits your knee, it just wants to go down. That’s sort of how it feels. I can’t trust it holding me up. I know it sounds strange and I really honestly do not know how to change it Monday I’m going in for a nerve burn on my lower spine. It helped a little bit and just one part of my lower spine, but the two tests didn’t help for the hips or the legs. I’m praying that it will. We will see. Thank you for reaching out.
I had my L5-S1 spinal fusion surgery about 4 weeks ago. I am documenting my recovery journey on my channel week by week. I am very transparent on my recovery of the ups and downs and what you should be aware of and also how to prepare. So far I am feeling good 👍
I agree and concur - I have been left for over 30 yrs with chronic and acute back pain Now I have Courda Equina and NOW I am an emergency -allegedly ! Appointment tomorrow 23/10/24 with spinal team For the last 5 years bladder and bowel incontinance Even been accused over this period of “Swinging the lead” Hmmmmm I think not -You gotta love ARROGANT NHS registrars and consultants !!!!!
I’m 63 and just saw the spine surgeon at Mercy Hospital in Baltimore Dr. Charles Edwards. He has recommended surgery for severe stenosis caused by arthritis. I have failed conventional treatment, that is three spinal injections plus physical therapy, but that was over two years ago, my insurance is insisting I have physical therapy within the last year… Very frustrating as I’m at the gym six days a week implementing all Routines taught to me by physical therapy. In fact, I’m in the best physical shape of my life. I have to argue with insurance that, number one no amount of physical therapy is going to take care of our arthritic growths and number two I’ve already been taught the routines necessary to optimize function and well-being of the spine. Very frustrating.
I hear you. The insurance companies will make you jump through hoops, hoping that you will simply give up. Very frustrating as a patient (and also as a doctor). Good luck.
Thank you so much! I have scoliosis along with other spine problems. I had a spinal fusion of L3 and L4, decompression and laminectomy I 4/2024. I am still having severe pain and I am in your group #3. I see my surgeon again on 1/21/2025. I really don't want another back surgery but I want to have as normal a life as possible. I don't feel that I was medicated properly throug h the initial recovery period. Wish me luck!
Thank you for these great videos. I'm almost 59. Been dealing with herniated discs since 2003. At first it was 3. About 8 years ago I had another mri which showed 5 discs, plus stenosis, arthritis and so forth. My surgeon who did my cervical fusion (which was very successful) said all those years ago not to get surgery. Now, I'm going to see him again because I have SOME pain everyday and weakness of the legs. That could be from arthritic knees too. But when it goes out now its more debilitating and takes way longer to recover from. I'm not sure there is anything he can do. But when it goes out I can barely stand to walk even with a cane. This last event took over 3 weeks to return to relative normal.
I have been in chronic pain since high school and have had fusion surgery four times I’m fused from c2 to c7 my surgeon wants to reopen the back of my neck and re enforce the fused levels and fuse c7 to t1 I am and have been suffering for years my life has been ruined but I keep trying I’m sixty years old now and somehow kept working until I was forty seven I pray 🙏 to see life again soon
do not get that fusion. i would be having the surgeon remove the metals out of your neck the fusion plates are not to be left in a patient after fusions. your doctor may be benefiting financially from the manufacturer or may even have ownership in stock/royalty.. do your research.
11 years and the past 3 years I have gotten worse, I can’t work or go to school. Can’t play with my kids or walk a long distance. I haven’t been able to find a surgeon to help me. I cry everyday from pain and I leave a dr’s office crying cause they turn me down. I have no quality of life. My kids are what keep me alive.
@@ashleybennett6622 i’m so sorry, sweetie. I understand what you’re going through. I’ve been on Norco and gabapentin for years now and they’re not working the same so I don’t have any answers. I have autoimmune disease diseases so surgery is a scary risk. I am going to have the nerve burn in my lower back. This happens on Monday, so I’m hoping to have a little bit of good news. The two trial that I had to go through didn’t really help with the pain in my hips or my legs. There’s a lot of nerve pain now and a lot of nerve damage. The sciatica has been horrible. I’m praying that they can find the nerves and burn them and then hopefully I’ll have six months to a year before they grow back. Praying you get some answers sweetie. See if you can go to a neurologist. They can do the testing and it might help with what the doctors Want. They all want the MRIs and everything else before they make any decisions. Please be proactive on this.
I have had Cauda Equina symptoms a several years had to push doctor and finally got MRI l4-l5 pinched nerve,l3-l4 grade 1 spondylolisthesis with disc protrusion osteophytes ll2-l3 nild broad-based disc bulge, l1-l2 narrowing disc, mild retrolisthesis, small disc bulge, t12-l1 mild disc bulge degenerative fact change L5-S1 mild disc protrusion mild degenerative fact change ligamentum flavum hypertrophy (Severe right neural foraminal narrowing I am 71 female.
I have very same diagnoses total of 4 mris showing same but total of 3 surgeons saying they can’t se nothing the third surgeon wanted me to get an injection in the only vertebra shows no stenosis
@@SpineSurgeonSpeaksI have similar symptoms to Leona but even more severe with (Nov.18, 2022), at one point loosing all feeling in my legs, feet and toes (bedridden for 4 months), have saddle paralysis affecting my bladder and bowel, had Laminectomy, fusion with hardware in 2007. I saw a Neurosurgeon in March, 2023. We went over my MRI, my Scan and X-rays. Besides severe stenosis S1L5, L4L5, L3L4, L2, also 1 Pedicule Screw had penetrated the spinal wall, severe facet joint degeneration, Scoliosis, and more. He was going to have to take out hardware, fusion, etc. from 2007 surgery and then do a complete revision: spinal fusion, etc. from S1 to L2 maybe include L1. He said my surgery would be within 6 months, bringing the surgery date to End of Sept. to Oct., 2023. It is now August 22, 2024 and I am still waiting for a new surgery date. I phone his office every 2 months to check in and see if my surgery has a date. I know he is very busy and our Canadian Health system is very maxed out and in trouble but I’m coming up a year waiting from my original surgery date. It’s been very rough and I’m worried that I may have permanent nerve damage that won’t recover with surgery now. This started when I was 70 yrs old and I am now 72 yrs old.😳🥺
Hello Bonnie: Sorry to hear about your difficulties, I cannot even imagine what you must have gone through for the past several years. Many viewers from Canada have related similar experiences, unfortunately. It has to be very frustrating to be in such a position as a patient, without any options. I wish you all the best and the best of health. Thank you for sharing your story with us ❤️🙏❤️
I have this. When I had my spinal surgery, the neurosurgeon was shocked he found numerous spurs. One was 3 1/2 inches long midline into my spinal cord. There were others, but he could not believe that I was still walking.
@@SpineSurgeonSpeaks ok sounds good 👍🏻 I hope you show more videos though and things that can help patient to know what I ask when they’re going in for surgery. And also think what to ask with anesthesiologist.
Thanks for the advice, and I want to know, apart from surgery is there's any other options to do, like the exercises to build the muscles that are supported the lower backpain?
Thank you For excellent video. I have had Leminectomy 50 years ago had been playing football, had need smashed up car motor bike. Neck c5,6,7 bone spurs. Both arms affected. 1 year ago had bad Fall on Esclators due to movement. Since that had several falls right leg dropped gate .Lower spine very severe groin pain both thighs butt both sides now going numb at times waiting L4/5 S1 fussion 72 VERY Worried about having this operation very worried but groin is out of this word NOT good I want to fix but now close to operation I good Nuro I hope I hope that I can get over operation at my age
Thank you for your generous compliment, much appreciated. Sports do take a toll on the body, that much is true. Wishing you good luck in your surgery. I made a video which may be of interest to you: ruclips.net/video/m-t3L7nDAgM/видео.html
So informative and helpful for those of us in the back pain universe. I was wondering how you feel about unstable significant spondylolisthesis on the scale of urgency?
Most cases of spondylolisthesis can be surgically treated on an elective (i.e. non-urgent) basis, depending on how severe the symptoms are. In some cases the symptoms due to spondylolisthesis can be severe, even disabling, so surgery can be a reasonable option. You may want to consult with a spine-surgeon to have this matter evaluated. Wishing you good luck and the best of health 👍
The last one about pain totally describes me to the point where I now barely feel human. I'm scrambling around trying to get my lower neck problem diagnosed after years of hand waving, shots and frankly, flat out misdiagnosis which caused me to seek other treatments that were probably just a waste of time and money while suffering. Even if I went back to the clinics that misdiagnosed me, they probably would have changed their diagnosis at that point but that didn't happen because the original misdiagnosis put me on the wrong path seeking cures and destroyed my confidence in them.
Question / Statement if anyone can answer: T5-T8 Left Paracentral - been in constant pain for years I started PT but, it’s not helping. Next is injections. I can still lift, run, & wrestle(what caused the injury) I am 24 but worried about my later years. I am not sure what my best choice is.
Hi, my dad has massive pain, he has some sort of apparatus that joined two vertebrae together, i don’t know the details of it, but the thing is, he got the surgery done to alleviate pain, not increase it, on top of that, he almost died 3 times in 10 days after puking a liter of blood cause of a big ruptured ulcer.. it’s heartbreaking to witness, ive slept on the hospital floor for 2 weeks till 10 of may 2024, now im taking care of my dad at home, he is 66 years young, but his massive spine pain doesn’t let him live, the strong pain killers are what supposedly caused the ulcer… so its a vicious cycle and i dont know how to help him to remove that terrible back pain. I wish i could help 😭
Sorry to hear about the very difficult situation that you and your dad are dealing with. In such cases (when spine surgery is not recommended) it may be reasonable to ask a Pain-Management physician if your dad may be a good candidate for a spinal-cord stimulator or a pain-pump. Wishing you and your dad all the best, good luck 👍
I have no cartilage in my L3 & L4 recently I had a sciatica but something happened and I lost like half my strength in my thigh and my inside leg below my knee went numb it's been 3 months and the pain hurts bad and my leg isn't right it seems like it's gonna stay this way I hate waiting for referrals everything takes so long
All my doctors seem to think its compeltely ok to go 5 or 10 years being miserable being unable to do any of my hobbies and will not even entertain the idea of surgery. Just the same pt course over and over. In fact they seem to think of me as a psych case for not being being able to just move on and live my life with my herniated discs. Sure doc Ill go right out on the sports field so I can paralyze myself.
Hello doc would appreciate your help ive been told i have a L5 s1 disc bulge . Result of Rta on nov 22 . My work (arborist) suddenly came to a stop and there's been nothing but pain since . Took 21 mths for the nhs to get me an MRI. i had t hought the pain originally was coming from the left hip joint as putting weight on that side was agony/ walking/bending down etc.Was convinced that i needed hip replacement. Nhs had injected left hip and had hoped the pain would subside but it didn't make any difference. There's no let up with the pain and it hampers doing many things. Got a long awaited mri scan and discovered disc bulge ,,Been using a stick for while but this last few months been needing crutches. Cant continue like this. WhT surgery would you recommend and is there any risks assoc.
That is a good question. Different surgeons will disagree about whether to operate because a patient has motor-weakness. It also depends on whether the weakness is caused by spinal-cord compression vs. nerve compression. This is a complex issue.
@@SpineSurgeonSpeaks what would be the way for a doctor to confirm which one is causing it? I ask because supposedly a lot of people have herniated discs with no symptoms at all, and im afraid of a misdiagnosis based on MRI.
How is the recovery pain?? I have cauda equina also and am afraid to have surgery. I'm 71. Everyone says the recovery is brutal n some are still in pain or worse pain. I understand why people go to the streets for pain drugs.
@@barbaraozor2208 my recovery went really well I had to do physiotherapy and work hard to get back on my feet. I was on my feet less than 24 hrs after my op. I didn't have any choice I had to have emergency surgery. I'm still in pain but not as bad as before my surgery
these are issues i am facing where i cant get drs to believe me, I wanted to share a few things I am dealing with. First, I have been seen by 7 different drs that i feel refuse to believe my symptoms that i noticed around 3/2024 which other issues, mentally and physically that exist and have for many years but : 1; I have a huge knot on my neck (that drs have not seen nor felt after i asked them to) and if I turn my neck i feel an electric shock and my right shoulder blade has a stabbing pain that has become more often than just occasional. 2; tingling burning like body is asleep down whole backside and in certain places into front. 3; my gait is off and falling has become natural. 4; I used to type 80-90 wm now back to pecking and my beautiful handwriting is now like my kids when they were learning how to write scripts. 5; no more of picking up lose change quickly or trying to get dressed in a hurry, buttoning, tying anything takes about 5 minutes each, so it’s pull over or make sure someone is there to help. 6; bladder and bowel issues. won't go into detail. 7; My feeling sensation has diminished quite a bit in my feet up to almost my knees, fingers now reaching up into my arms to elbows.8; A few other small things. But it is almost 1 year later, and I just had MRI that shows my cord is only at 7mm and is over half compressed but I still had to plead for it, so I finally get to see a neurosurgeon that has put me off due to lack of 1800 dollars. I am single 52 and have been out of work since 2/2023 for symptoms that are possibly related and have no resources, but I do have insurance that would pay them all but that. I am at a loss for what to do. So, guess they are going to let me be paralyzed or dead by the time I can come up with that much. The others are medically diagnosed are severe depression/anxiety, PTSD, severe, debilitating, arthritis in knees, back, thumbs and shoulders which limit many things I do or try to do. any suggestions.
Hello Doctor. I’m 37 and I had microdiscectomy a month ago because I had severe buttock/leg pain and my pelvis was numb. Symptoms improved but now I’m noticing numbness in my pelvis again, even pain, also buttock and leg pain came back, less than before the surgery but they’re there. Is it normal to have pelvic numbness still? I’ll see my doctor next week and probably he’s going to request an MRI.Thank you for your videos, they’re very clear and informative 🙏🏻
Thank you for your compliment, appreciate it. Since I am not familiar with your case, I cannot make and diagnostic/ therapeutic recommendations. However, if you are scheduled to see your surgeon it may be quite reasonable to get another MRI (as you suggested) to see if there is any residual/recurrent disc-herniation. Good luck 👍
Mine isn't early stage. Multi cervical spinal degeneration, disc degeneration, severe arthritic , severe foraminal narrowing in more than one place and thecal sac flattening in 2 places.
Hi doc.. I have l4/l5 disc bulge.. And there is slight bowel incontinence and oab symptom.. After pt my pain in left leg has improved significantly and ther is no numbness in grion or thigh.. Like to know your advice on how to go about..
Thank you for reaching out. Obviously I cannot diagnose your condition, but I hope you have had this matter evaluated by a spine-surgeon. That is the best course of action. Good luck to you.
Is there a name for the 3rd condition you discussed. I’m suffering exactly this just now , I’ve found I can’t walk as much also less stable on my feet.
Hello Doctor, I have a c6 pinched nerve. I have never had any of spine related issues before. It feels excruciating pain when I wake up after 2-4 hrs of sleep at night on right arm near muscle around upper elbow. I wet the area with cold water for temporary relief. But my life feels like living hell. I am dealing with this for 2 weeks now. I can't sleep lying down horizontally. acupuncture with muscle relaxant and pain killer, helps a lot with pain. Almost go pain free and get 6 hours of sleep lying down and pain slowly gets back next day etc. Is there any posture that I can use to sleep? Also, would this need surgery? Sometimes the nerve unpinches momentarily when I am standing, when standing it's least painful. I feel pressure near index finger tip if nerve gets removed from pinch I feel instant relief and also I feel like something pass my heart sharp pain that instantly goes away in 0.1 seconds. Kind of feels like my heart swallowed something. For 5 days I am only getting 3-4 hours of sleep due to pain.
Thank you for reaching out. Unfortunately I am unable to give you advice about your specific condition since I haven't examined you or reviewed your records. I would recommend an in-person consultation with a spine-specialist. Wishing you all the best in the future.
I greatly appreciate the professionalism of your videos. I wonder if you would be so kind as to comment on my current situation. I completely understand you cannot diagnose without more information but I have both cervical and lumbar issues. Just had a c6-c7 ACDF. C4-5 has severe foraminal stenosis, with arm/hand issues. Lumbar: L5-S1 bilateral severe foraminal stenosis and L4-5 spinal canal stenosis with a midline spinal canal AP diameter of 7mm, with foraminal stenosis. Much pelvic discomfort, left leg and foot greatly affected/painful. Surgeon has offered a left sided decompression at L5-S1. Is the canal stenosis with AP of 7mm something I should be addressing? I thank you
Thank you for reaching out. As you stated, I am unable to diagnose your condition or make treatment recommendations. But, as a general principle, the type of stenosis you described is quite significant, and may need to be addressed. I would suggest getting a second-opinion evaluation from another surgeon for this matter. I have two videos which may be helpful to you as you weigh your options: Don't have spine surgery if... ruclips.net/video/ovSTtD08Olw/видео.html Why spine surgery fails ruclips.net/video/ZN_RLDOEBmA/видео.html Good luck to you 👍
Thank you for reaching out. As you stated, I am unable to diagnose your condition or make treatment recommendations. But, as a general principle, the type of stenosis you described is quite significant, and may need to be addressed. I would suggest getting a second-opinion evaluation from another surgeon for this matter. I have two videos which may be helpful to you as you weigh your options: Don't have spine surgery if... ruclips.net/video/ovSTtD08Olw/видео.html Why spine surgery fails ruclips.net/video/ZN_RLDOEBmA/видео.html Good luck to you 👍
@@SpineSurgeonSpeaks I thank you for your comments. My current surgeon is very quiet and I find it difficult to get him to discuss in depth. He has commented that he may consider further cervical surgery from the posterior side on C4-5 if ACDF on c6-c7 (April 11/24)doesn't give enough relief. On lumbar specifically is the 7mm spinal stenosis a concern? Also struggling to understand how a left decompression alone is sufficient? My problem getting a second opinion in Canada, is that I'm told a 2-3yr wait time will be involved to see another surgeon. I'm currently on current surgeon's surgery list for the left sided decompression but haven't a date yet. I have become desperate as life for me has changed significantly but really do want to have the right surgery the first time and not undertake a surgery that may not address everything out of being so desperate. I appreciate any further commitments you can offer. Thank-you so much. Ps. I'm 64yr old
There is mild diffuse disc bulge at L4-L5 level indenting the anterior thecal sac with mild encroachme of the neural foramina. No significant spinal canal stenosis is seen. No other significant lumbar da herniation is noted. The lower end of the spinal cord and conus medullaris are normal. CSF demonstrates normal signa intensity. No intraspinal mass is seen. Opinion: MRI findings are suggestive of spondylotic changes of the cervical spine with broad-based posterocentral and right paracentral disc protrusion with posterior marginal osteophyte (disc osteophyte complex) and ligamentum flavum thickening at C6-C7 level causing narrowing of the right lateral recess, focal secondary spinal canal stenosis and significant bilateral (right > left) traversing. nerve root compression. The compressed cervical cord at C6-C7 level also demonstrates focal Intramedullary T2 hyperintensity representing myelomalacic cord changes / focal cord edema. Mild posterior disc osteophyte complex with ligamentum flavum thickening at C5-C6 level is also seen causing indentation over the ventral cervical cord surface with no significant intramedullary signal Intensity change.
Looking for a doctor who will properly diagnose me after being rear ended as a pedestrian. Insurance company has delayed and denied. Still fighting. My neck, pelvis, hips and coccyx are
Thank you for reaching out. Usually a laminectomy is performed to relieve the pressure/ compression of the cauda equina. I should, at some point, make a video about this condition. Stay tuned.
So i had groin numbness from my L5-S1 herniation. Lumbar ESI made it even worse. Had a microdisctecomy and had issues still until the inflammation got a little better and took some oral steroids. 7 months no groin numbness so thats a win. Still some nerve issues though. Not one doctor would even speak on the groin numbness. Like they didn't believe me lol. Still baffles me.
What about scoliosis that had been dormant for decades? I recently found out I have scoliosis in my lower back (Aug 26, 2024). I have been seeing a Chiropractor for the last 4mos which has helped me tremendously but still the pain had shortened my vacations, exercising, obviously not able to lift items that I used to be able too, and house chores such as vacuuming. Should I see an Orthopedic? Do you recommend back surgery? Btw- I turn 48 soon. Thank you in advance.
I'm a 73 YO, male, retired, and a sufferer of numerous Spinal ailments for decades! At 15 yo, in 1966, I fractured my right femur playing HS football. When the full body cast was cutoff in 3 months (after 6 weeks in traction in the hospital), my right kleg was 1" short ! The Ortho dr at the time, was Surprised at the amount of Leg length Discrepancy. After measuring both my parents legs, hee surmised that my mother's right leg was 1/4" short and he opined that I must have started the same way. The LLD was left Unaddressed. He shouldave prrescribed adjusted shoes, but did not. After 20 years or so, the lower back started to ache and was stiff when bending forward. The Chirpractor at that time told me..."Man, You have problems.....and you will have many more down the road". Boy was He RIGHT!. My right side had (hips) dropped, and my body adjusted to this LLD - It was then that I started to semi-accomodate the LLD by insering a 1/4 " lift in my dress shoes, and had the shoemaker add a 1/4" extra rubber heel. But the damage was already done. I now have Sponyliosis Throughout, various sites of mild to moderate stenosis, SI Joint Inflammation for years (according to my Rheumatologist - the SI Joints (Sacrolilitis) inflammation is "Ground Zero" for most, if not all Spinal issues. The Spondy traversed to the top of my Cervical Spine, lost the curvature of the Neck [Military Neck), OA on the Vertebrae and Facet Joints , L2, L3, fore and aft Disc Bulges, various disc herniations, L5-S1 Spondylioethesis , severe DDD throughout and 22 Degrees Dextroscoliosis (various doctor opinions vary of the cause of the Scoliosis but I remain Convinced it is from the LLD). I hve No Reflexes, there is Pheripheral and Central Nervous system damages. I have Radiculapathy in the neck - left side getting worse and worse. In 2018 -2019 , I sought Neuro and Spinal Surgical opinions . 6 of them including Columbia Pres, Mt. Sinai, White Plains and Greenwich Hopsital doctors. All said No One will touch your Lumbar spine - way too much arthritis; maybe I am a candidate for ACDF in the neck "if it gets really bad". That's language for the success rate is not good. As a Ortho nurse told me, unlkess the Dr and the Hospital feel there is a 80% success rate - they won't do the surgeries. The one doctor at Mt. Sinai (who would be my guy if I were to proceed - he had excellent Bedside manners) Dr. Saad Chaudry, indicateed that many doctors count Scoliosis short! It can (and in my case DOES) affect the Central Nervous system, pinching various nerves to vital organs. The Cervical Instabilities [CI], causes Tinnitus, Sinus problems, ear & eye pains, Temporal/Occiptal headaches, Lightheadedness, Vertigo, Costochondritis, even IBS and as this dr profresses....Bladder / Bowel issues and Incontinence. All of which I now Experience. FYI, I have been to at least 6 different Chiros, Acupuncture sessions (40) with very little help, various PT sessions over the years. The human Body is Fascinating! Physiatry is based on symmetry in the Body alignment / Posture. From the LLD , I have OA (bone on bone) in the right Knee [The shorter leg !!l, close in the left knee, OA in the left Hip! Chronic pains and the terrible stiffness is worse part affecting my well being everyday parrticulalry in the past 10 years. Furthermore, I have converted myself into a Lab Rat... I take very supplement known to mankind that "could" offer some help with the Body wide Inflammation (Public Enemy No. 1!) in my efforts to find Relief!. The moral to tthis story....I waited Far too Long to do anytjhing about this decades ago. Oh, I didn't drink water regularly ---Your back discs are 80% Water ! Once they deteriorate - they don't regenerate.
Hi, I've had several back operations. Im fused in my l4 to s1 and also have my SI joint(right) fused. I started of with a limp in my right leg but now can barely walk. Is there anything else you could suggest. Ps not looking for miracles as i know this is only a brief synopsis. Regards, Gerry
Thank you for reaching out. Obviously I can't diagnose your condition, but have you had your hips checked by an orthopedic surgeon? Sometimes hip-arthritis can cause significant disability which can easily be confused with spine problems.
@@SpineSurgeonSpeaks Thank you for getting back to me. That's one thing that's never been mentioned, so I'll look into that. I really appreciate your time. Thank you
Probably too late to comment, but, I've been wondering for a long time if the leg problems / weakness I have are from a combination of issues. Imbalances in electrolytes due to having my gallbladder out, bone weakness. Just to name a few??
I am 37 now, I had C5 - C6 disc replacement done in 2019 due to neck pain but since then the pain has increased alot I am not able to sleep properly and wake up with lot of pain on daily basis. There is lot of muscle spams in the neck region which has restructed my neck movement what should I do? Because doctor doing xray everytime and saying artificial disc is properly placed and there should not be a pain. I am literally down with the pain 365 days 24*7 please suggest other treatment option to get out of the pain for me..
Thank you very for your professional way to guide patients.. Sir, only 2 points there i have problem ... if i walk more then 150 meters or stand more then 8 to 10 mnts my both leges become numb and pain ...bothe legs so due to that numbness iv to stope walk and sit for 1 mnt then again i can walk and stand .....only these 2 conditions other wise im ok i can sit stand band i can drive continuously without pain ... doctor advice me after saw my MRI ( SURGERY)....please you advice me what to do .... Or if you forwerd me share me ....i can send my MRI
My mother has chronic spinal stenosis and she is on number 3 .she is 67 years old she gets numbness on her arms to finger tips and from gluts to toes im just worried at her age will the surgery help or with time will she need more surgeries after she gets her first ??
Hi, Doctor! If someone has had sciatica for 5 years, but it isn’t disabling and they can still do all the things they love, would you recommend they get surgery just due to the length of time that they’ve had it? (No red flag symptoms, no concerning MRI findings, no neurological symptoms, etc.)
Thank you for reaching out. I think the best option for any patient facing your situation is to get a consultation with a spine-surgeon, where you can candidly discuss the surgical & non-surgical options. Since each patient's condition is unique, therefore the decision to have surgery vs. not have surgery is also unique to each patient. I suggest that you watch the following video, which may help you: ruclips.net/video/ovSTtD08Olw/видео.html Good luck! 👍
Lateral-mass screws are used for posterior cervical fusion, which is less commonly performed than ACDF. My video about ACDF is here: ruclips.net/video/5HPlzxWN2dk/видео.html and ruclips.net/video/rboB5n4aIVo/видео.html
Where do you Practice ? Good getting talk to a surgeon up here in the northeast zz after falling off a deck and landed on my L4 -S1 fusion. I had to go through a physiatrist to get a referral to my former surgeon because I had not been seen in the practice in 3 years … I had to wait 7 weeks with new bilateral leg weakness and greatly increased neuropathy .. the guy never laid a hand on me and tried to give me the bums rush … as a clinician , I not only know how to examine an individual, I do it … off to Boston ..
I’m a cancer patient from breast to brain but they don’t see any tumor in my spine they want to have chemotherapy and radiation I’m confused because they didn’t see any tumor my cancer from 2009 can you please help me
Sir, this explanation was v. helpful, thank you. Could you shed some light on the following topic: what should be the relation between symptoms and MRI/RTG, should always be confirmation in the image of the reported symptoms and clear answer why the symptoms happen and what exactly should be remove/decompresed? What is image is more or less the same over a period of time but symptoms changed: from pain in the left leg to pain in the right leg or central pain? How such symptoms could be explained with similar image?
Thank you for reaching out. There is a high correlation between the findings of the MRI and symptoms, but not 100%. Usually, most patients with moderate-severe stenosis by MRI will have moderate-severe symptoms. I have a video which may be of help to you: Don't have spine surgery if... ruclips.net/video/ovSTtD08Olw/видео.html
Hello doctor, I had been having back ache issues for a long period, but since January the pain was unbearable and I consulted an orthopedic doctor and he suggested some pain killer and nerve relaxation medication. It used to work sometimes and sometimes not. In march i took a cordalblock injection, it gave me relif,but on may 19th the pain suddenly reappeared and it was totaly bad. I got pain killer through IV but not much help. I unbearable went a spinal fusion surgery on L3,L4,L5 and S1. There is no pain sincethen but the strength on the affected leg is very less and I am using a walker for my needs. Started physiotherapy since discharge and now zi am able to walk without the help of a waker but my hip falls when walking and I am not 100% as I cant walk like normal people. Can you suggest what has gone bad in my condition. Sujit
Hello Sujit, Thank you for reaching out. Obviously I cannot comment on your specific condition (since the particulars/ details are not available to me), but I can tell you that it is not unusual to have some transient weakness after surgery (if the nerves are severely compressed before surgery). For most patients the weakness gets better over time (may take over a year) with physical therapy. Hang in there, be patient, stay positive. Recovery after spine surgery takes a long time. Good luck to you 👍
Do you believe in the “Double Crush Syndrome” theory? That stenosis in the cervical spine can amplify neurological problems lower in the body, such as arms and legs? Thank you Sir.
Yes, DCS is a real phenomenon. The most common example is when a nerve is pinched in the neck (i.e. cervical radiculopathy) and the same nerve is pinched at a second location in the arm (such as carpal tunnel syndrome).
@@SpineSurgeonSpeaks that explains exactly what I’m dealing with. I am a sheet metal worker by trade and had carpal tunnel surgery 21 years ago. Worked great. Advancements in hand tools in the last 20 years has really helped with less manual hand cutting. I have chronic neck pain with both spinal and foraminal stenosis. On occasion it’s feels like my carpal tunnel has come completely back, especially at night. In a week or two later it just seems to disappear. The Surel nerve in my left leg has no response. I notice with the more painful cervical flareups my left foot gets painfully numb and is starting on my right foot as well. But not sure if related. Thank you so much for your rely!
I have an L5 herniated disc. I suspect I've had this for anout a year, but just recently (for the last month) been having severe pain which started in my left hip and leg and has now moved to the right leg as well. I have quite a bit of numbness and tingling as well. I live in the UK and use the NHS. Im worried that with the waiting list times, I could be in this severe pain for a long time. Any advice?
Thank you for reaching out. I have quite a few viewers of this channel who have described similar difficulties with the NHS. Unfortunately I am not familiar with the healthcare system of the UK, but would a private hospital be an option for you? Wishing you good luck, sorry to hear about the bind you are in 🙏
I found out i had hernia disc or a bulging disc narrowing of the spine I got pain from my lower back down to my ankles ,i cant hold my bathroom, or if im in the bed room with my husband pea comes out, ,nume in my thighs and when i wile my doctor had to get me a ct scan, and my pain is unbearable, i have trouble walking and feel heavyness or i trip over sticks, or cant do nothing i wish it would go away, any ideas
The three surgeons I consulted are no sensitive regardless I had 4 mris 2 rounds of physical therapy since May having and failing physical therapy taking 5 different pills not working 2 injections to the lumbar not effective EMG done etc etc still no help
Thank you for watching. Your comment is very insightful: I agree, sometimes patients are made to go around in circles by their doctors, without clear answers. I need to make a video about it.
That depends on what type of specific problem the patient is dealing with. For example spinal cord compression is a more dangerous problem compared to spinal nerve problem. The former (usually) needs to be treated more urgently than the latter.
My endoscopic spine surgery done 2 month ago.but my incision area is stiff now and pain feel while sitting on a chair or bed. Please told me when I can bend front and properly fine
Thank you for reaching out. Obviously I am not familiar with your particular case, so I cannot recommend any treatment(s). The best course of action would be for you to ask your surgeon if physical therapy may be helpful. Depending on the type of surgery you had, your surgeon may order a specific physical therapy program for you. Good luck to you, wishing you an excellent recovery 🙏
Thank you, Dr. Kahn, I believe that I have the signal #3 number three (from your presentation of “3 signs” ) whereby I have disabling pain due to severe spinal stenosis or in my case severe forminal stenosis. Your discussion about having spinal surgery sooner rather than later will help me in determining a course of action. I have really been vacillating with this decision to go with a total disk replacement via the Pro Disk-C Prosthetic implant. I have been told that I need this implant in two segments, C4/C5 and C6/C7. I really don’t want to have the surgery but I also don’t wanna wait since the pain is really getting in the way of my life and my hobbies. Do you think I could just do one implant on one segment versus two or is this something I should ask my spine surgeon?
Thank you for your question. The timing of your query is fortuitous, since I just released this video about disc-replacement surgery: ruclips.net/video/3vt-qLOWdaE/видео.html For obvious reasons (since I cannot diagnose your condition or make treatment recommendations) it is not possible for me to comment on the specific situation that you described. If you are not sure about your surgeon's recommendation, it would be reasonable to get a second opinion from another surgeon. Good luck 👍
Thank you for reaching out. Urinary leakage is very common after childbirth, you are correct. But if you are in doubt, please consult a spine surgeon for further evaluation.
Ugh I've been having neck C4 to C8 pain, numbness, tingling down my arms and hands and facial numbness and tingling. Also L5 -S1 herniated disc/ arthritis issues. Inside of my thighs hips belly Private areas all numb and burning sensations. I have yet to get a doctor to help me. It's annoying and I'm in severe pain. This past year has been the worst but still I'm fighting doctors just to get a MRI on my back. 😢
Here in Canada we handle this differently. I was injured at work and hospitalized. After 5 days I was sent home with prescriptions for 2 different opioids. That was May 2004. That's it. That's all. It has now been 20 years and I still do nothing all day, every day and take the doctor prescribed opioids and doctor prescribed cannabis oil. They have abandoned me and left me to die by opioids. That is the Canadian way. So I just move and feel a pop in my spine and then I get the awful pain. Canadian doctors are not able to figure this out. Americans seem to know how to fix this but I have no money. It was all stolen by an unscrupulous doctor in Florida who lied to me. I look forward to death !
This surgeon deserves a lot more reimbursement than an overseas holiday. If you are a person in need of spinal surgery, you are very lucky to live in an age where it is available to you.
I’m 67 and was scheduled for a 4 level spinal fusion this coming March after a year of constant sciatica pain in both legs . I having been dealing with spinal stenosis for about 10 years.with 15 epurdials ,mild procedure,pt and just about everything for help. After constant pain for over a year I finally agreed to surgery. Only now I have been feeling very little pain since Christmas and decided to postpone it . I have a lot of arthritis but have been super active my whole life and still am. The thought of doing nothing for 3-6 months is overwhelming to me. Do you think I’m doing the right thing postponing it? I have had 3 opinions and all said the same surgery.
I forgot to add I have one disc pushed forward and one back. Level 4&5 but the surgeon included 2&3 bc he said he would have to do another surgery down the road bc of what he saw.
If I lived close to you, I would come see you. I have DDD for an extended time, had double Laminectomy L4 and L5 in 2003 without Fusion. Now I have Spondlyolisthesis in that location. Had MRI Nov 11, significant changes since Nov 2023 MRI. I got ADdicted to Morphine and doing 11,000 Mg/month. I quit Morphine for 15 months now. Took 5 tries to get clean and I never want to ever get Addicted again. I am in level 4-9 pain every day but I live with it rather than take Opiates. Now I am in great pain, the bulge is now greater at L5-S1 with pain adjacent to that area abd down my right leg. I think it’s time to surrender to Fusion at these 2 locations.
Thank you for reaching out. I am sorry to hear about your difficulties. It's never easy to live with the pain that you have described. Wishing you good luck and good health in the future.
I'm in same boat. I got hooked on the opiates after a failed fusion. I've been off then 12 years now and have always dealt with the pain my own way. If I don't work on my back and core strength and mobility every single day I have issues. I re injured this year and finally was tired of my way. Met with surgeon and having an ALIF here in a couple weeks. Never hurts to follow up and get 2nd option. Just lean Into your support group
Looking for a doctor who will properly diagnose me after being rear ended as a pedestrian. Insurance company has delayed and denied. Still fighting. My neck, pelvis, hips and coccyx are
![Felix "Unfair" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Oswujxm2Ag0/mqdefault.jpg)
Thank you for your insight and expert opinion. I am having surgery on 9/4/24. Lamenectomy with spinal fusion L5-S1, nerve decompression. Highly recommended neurosurgeon. Im 50 and have been through 5 MRI'S and 16 years of back pain, bulged disks, nerve damage in lft leg, spinal fractures, spondylolisthesis, arthritis. I hope the pain isn't too bad after the surgery. I feel like a 70 year old man trapped in a 50 year old body. You gave me the courage to continue to move forward. Thank you
Thank you for your kind words, wishing you good luck and the best of health ❤️🙏
I pray all went well, my surgery is tomorrow ( 4th spinal surgery)
How was your surgery? Hope you’re recovering well ❤
Hi. I'm needing the same procedure! How are you doing recovery wise?
Same here..I'm scheduling mines ASAP...I will walk into 2025...frfr..
I’m 68. I have really bad arthritis all through my spine. I did have a lumbar fusion in 2011. It was L3 to S1 and they consider a failed surgery now. They chose to go in through the stomach so doctors tend to be very leery of doing that since I have moved. I saw a surgeon in Ann Arbor Michigan and he told me the most he could do was a spinal fusion from L2 to the pelvic bone. He didn’t think there was much hope even to that. After he said that I chose to get the Spinal Cord Stimulator and that has helped at night with pain, but I can’t use it during the day without it buckling my legs. I’ve been getting cervical epidurals and today I just got a lumbar epidural in several different places. I guess now I have developed scoliosis and my knees need knee replacement. One knee is bowing, and the other knee is pushing in so the whole leg is pushing in. It’s causing horrible groin pain. I have no idea what when you explained living completely around Pain I’ve been doing that for years now. Now I can walk straight on my left leg but the way my leg is blowing in on the other side. It’s making it feel like it’s 7:29 longer so I can’t use that leg, that has just happened within the last few months and it’s scary. Thank you so much. I’m not sure if anyone can offer advice but I just appreciate you listening. God bless you and thank you.
I don’t understand how your scs is buckling your legs. Can you be less general and more specific?
@ it’s hard to explain past that. When I’m trying to walk, it’s like the nerves don’t agree. It’s almost like when a kid comes up behind you and hits your knee, it just wants to go down. That’s sort of how it feels. I can’t trust it holding me up. I know it sounds strange and I really honestly do not know how to change it Monday I’m going in for a nerve burn on my lower spine. It helped a little bit and just one part of my lower spine, but the two tests didn’t help for the hips or the legs. I’m praying that it will. We will see. Thank you for reaching out.
I had my L5-S1 spinal fusion surgery about 4 weeks ago. I am documenting my recovery journey on my channel week by week. I am very transparent on my recovery of the ups and downs and what you should be aware of and also how to prepare. So far I am feeling good 👍
Good luck i had my bottom two discs fused over 25 years ago, im now 62 and live in agony
I was forced to wait 9 years in constant pain. Surgery has been good just wish NHS would listen to this
That sounds terrible. Nine years is... way too long. Hope you are doing much better.
I agree and concur - I have been left for over 30 yrs with chronic and acute back pain
Now I have Courda Equina and NOW I am an emergency -allegedly !
Appointment tomorrow 23/10/24 with spinal team
For the last 5 years bladder and bowel incontinance
Even been accused over this period of “Swinging the lead”
Hmmmmm I think not -You gotta love ARROGANT NHS registrars and consultants !!!!!
You poor thing. Hope all is well from now on. I'm waiting for decompression surgery just hope to God I don't wait as long as you 🫰
I have severe spinal stenosis, and your videos have been extremely helpful to me. Thank you!
Great to hear that! Wishing you all the best 👍
I’m 63 and just saw the spine surgeon at Mercy Hospital in Baltimore Dr. Charles Edwards. He has recommended surgery for severe stenosis caused by arthritis. I have failed conventional treatment, that is three spinal injections plus physical therapy, but that was over two years ago, my insurance is insisting I have physical therapy within the last year… Very frustrating as I’m at the gym six days a week implementing all
Routines taught to me by physical therapy. In fact, I’m in the best physical shape of my life. I have to argue with insurance that, number one no amount of physical therapy is going to take care of our arthritic growths and number two I’ve already been taught the routines necessary to optimize function and well-being of the spine. Very frustrating.
I hear you. The insurance companies will make you jump through hoops, hoping that you will simply give up. Very frustrating as a patient (and also as a doctor). Good luck.
Thank you for explaining . Now I’m not nervous to get my surgery done it’s like you are the answer to my prayers 🙏
Thank you for the detailed understanding; I agree with your suggestions to 'not wait' to get surgery...God Bless you!
Thank you for your kind words, appreciate it. Happy to hear that you found the video helpful 👍
Thank you so much! I have scoliosis along with other spine problems. I had a spinal fusion of L3 and L4, decompression and laminectomy I 4/2024. I am still having severe pain and I am in your group #3. I see my surgeon again on 1/21/2025. I really don't want another back surgery but I want to have as normal a life as possible. I don't feel that I was medicated properly throug
h the initial recovery period. Wish me luck!
Thank you for these great videos. I'm almost 59. Been dealing with herniated discs since 2003. At first it was 3. About 8 years ago I had another mri which showed 5 discs, plus stenosis, arthritis and so forth. My surgeon who did my cervical fusion (which was very successful) said all those years ago not to get surgery. Now, I'm going to see him again because I have SOME pain everyday and weakness of the legs. That could be from arthritic knees too. But when it goes out now its more debilitating and takes way longer to recover from. I'm not sure there is anything he can do. But when it goes out I can barely stand to walk even with a cane. This last event took over 3 weeks to return to relative normal.
Always so professional, thank you!
Thanks for watching!
I have been in chronic pain since high school and have had fusion surgery four times I’m fused from c2 to c7 my surgeon wants to reopen the back of my neck and re enforce the fused levels and fuse c7 to t1 I am and have been suffering for years my life has been ruined but I keep trying I’m sixty years old now and somehow kept working until I was forty seven I pray 🙏 to see life again soon
do not get that fusion. i would be having the surgeon remove the metals out of your neck the fusion plates are not to be left in a patient after fusions. your doctor may be benefiting financially from the manufacturer or may even have ownership in stock/royalty.. do your research.
Thank you for sharing your knowldge in such a simple way to understand it.
Very informative video! Thank you, Dr., for enlightening those of us who have back pain and spinal issues. 🎉❤
Thank you for the compliment, appreciate it 🙏
Great Advice Appreciate the Information
Thank you for watching. Glad to help.
11 years and the past 3 years I have gotten worse, I can’t work or go to school. Can’t play with my kids or walk a long distance. I haven’t been able to find a surgeon to help me. I cry everyday from pain and I leave a dr’s office crying cause they turn me down. I have no quality of life. My kids are what keep me alive.
I’m so sorry to hear this. Praying that you can find some help🙏
Sorry to hear about your difficulties. Wishing you the best of luck and the best of health in the future.
I,m sry for u 😢 don't give up!
🙏🙏🙏❤️🌹Keep your faith. Sending prayers….
@@ashleybennett6622 i’m so sorry, sweetie. I understand what you’re going through. I’ve been on Norco and gabapentin for years now and they’re not working the same so I don’t have any answers. I have autoimmune disease diseases so surgery is a scary risk. I am going to have the nerve burn in my lower back. This happens on Monday, so I’m hoping to have a little bit of good news. The two trial that I had to go through didn’t really help with the pain in my hips or my legs. There’s a lot of nerve pain now and a lot of nerve damage. The sciatica has been horrible. I’m praying that they can find the nerves and burn them and then hopefully I’ll have six months to a year before they grow back. Praying you get some answers sweetie. See if you can go to a neurologist. They can do the testing and it might help with what the doctors Want. They all want the MRIs and everything else before they make any decisions. Please be proactive on this.
I have had Cauda Equina symptoms a several years had to push doctor and finally got MRI l4-l5 pinched nerve,l3-l4 grade 1 spondylolisthesis with disc protrusion osteophytes ll2-l3 nild broad-based disc bulge, l1-l2 narrowing disc, mild retrolisthesis, small disc bulge, t12-l1 mild disc bulge degenerative fact change L5-S1 mild disc protrusion mild degenerative fact change ligamentum flavum hypertrophy (Severe right neural foraminal narrowing I am 71 female.
Noted. I hope you have consulted a spine-surgeon/ neurosurgeon for this matter.
I have very same diagnoses total of 4 mris showing same but total of 3 surgeons saying they can’t se nothing the third surgeon wanted me to get an injection in the only vertebra shows no stenosis
@@SpineSurgeonSpeaksI have similar symptoms to Leona but even more severe with (Nov.18, 2022), at one point loosing all feeling in my legs, feet and toes (bedridden for 4 months), have saddle paralysis affecting my bladder and bowel, had Laminectomy, fusion with hardware in 2007. I saw a Neurosurgeon in March, 2023. We went over my MRI, my Scan and X-rays. Besides severe stenosis S1L5, L4L5, L3L4, L2, also 1 Pedicule Screw had penetrated the spinal wall, severe facet joint degeneration, Scoliosis, and more. He was going to have to take out hardware, fusion, etc. from 2007 surgery and then do a complete revision: spinal fusion, etc. from S1 to L2 maybe include L1. He said my surgery would be within 6 months, bringing the surgery date to End of Sept. to Oct., 2023. It is now August 22, 2024 and I am still waiting for a new surgery date. I phone his office every 2 months to check in and see if my surgery has a date. I know he is very busy and our Canadian Health system is very maxed out and in trouble but I’m coming up a year waiting from my original surgery date. It’s been very rough and I’m worried that I may have permanent nerve damage that won’t recover with surgery now. This started when I was 70 yrs old and I am now 72 yrs old.😳🥺
Hello Bonnie: Sorry to hear about your difficulties, I cannot even imagine what you must have gone through for the past several years.
Many viewers from Canada have related similar experiences, unfortunately. It has to be very frustrating to be in such a position as a patient, without any options. I wish you all the best and the best of health.
Thank you for sharing your story with us ❤️🙏❤️
Thank you for the info. Appreciated.
Glad it was helpful!
Excellent information. thank you.
Glad it was helpful!
I have this.
When I had my spinal surgery, the neurosurgeon was shocked he found numerous spurs. One was 3 1/2 inches long midline into my spinal cord. There were others, but he could not believe that I was still walking.
Thanks for the great information. I love listening to what you have to say about different kinds of surgery. Will you ever show a surgery that you do?
Thank you for your kind words.
I have thought about showing a surgery... still thinking about it... stay tuned 👍
@@SpineSurgeonSpeaks I can’t wait until you are able to show a surgery
@@SpineSurgeonSpeaks ok sounds good 👍🏻 I hope you show more videos though and things that can help patient to know what I ask when they’re going in for surgery. And also think what to ask with anesthesiologist.
Excellent video; thank you.
Very kind of you, thank you for watching.
Thanks for the advice, and I want to know, apart from surgery is there's any other options to do, like the exercises to build the muscles that are supported the lower backpain?
Thankyou for sharing this information 🙏 very informative and helpful
Grade 1 retrolisthesis, facet joint arthropathy, l3 l4 l5 stenosis, with stiffness and pain worsen during work . Every surgeon has different opinion .
Thank you For excellent video. I have had Leminectomy 50 years ago had been playing football, had need smashed up car motor bike. Neck c5,6,7 bone spurs. Both arms affected. 1 year ago had bad Fall on Esclators due to movement. Since that had several falls right leg dropped gate .Lower spine very severe groin pain both thighs butt both sides now going numb at times waiting L4/5 S1 fussion 72 VERY Worried about having this operation very worried but groin is out of this word NOT good I want to fix but now close to operation I good Nuro I hope I hope that I can get over operation at my age
Thank you for your generous compliment, much appreciated.
Sports do take a toll on the body, that much is true.
Wishing you good luck in your surgery.
I made a video which may be of interest to you:
ruclips.net/video/m-t3L7nDAgM/видео.html
So informative and helpful for those of us in the back pain universe. I was wondering how you feel about unstable significant spondylolisthesis on the scale of urgency?
Most cases of spondylolisthesis can be surgically treated on an elective (i.e. non-urgent) basis, depending on how severe the symptoms are. In some cases the symptoms due to spondylolisthesis can be severe, even disabling, so surgery can be a reasonable option. You may want to consult with a spine-surgeon to have this matter evaluated.
Wishing you good luck and the best of health 👍
The last one about pain totally describes me to the point where I now barely feel human. I'm scrambling around trying to get my lower neck problem diagnosed after years of hand waving, shots and frankly, flat out misdiagnosis which caused me to seek other treatments that were probably just a waste of time and money while suffering. Even if I went back to the clinics that misdiagnosed me, they probably would have changed their diagnosis at that point but that didn't happen because the original misdiagnosis put me on the wrong path seeking cures and destroyed my confidence in them.
Sorry to hear about your difficulties. Hope you can find a good physician/surgeon to help you. Good luck.
@@SpineSurgeonSpeaks Thanks I think post-covid much easier to do the online consults and research.
Question / Statement if anyone can answer: T5-T8 Left Paracentral - been in constant pain for years I started PT but, it’s not helping. Next is injections. I can still lift, run, & wrestle(what caused the injury) I am 24 but worried about my later years. I am not sure what my best choice is.
Thank you.
My pleasure, glad you found the video helpful.
Hi, my dad has massive pain, he has some sort of apparatus that joined two vertebrae together, i don’t know the details of it, but the thing is, he got the surgery done to alleviate pain, not increase it, on top of that, he almost died 3 times in 10 days after puking a liter of blood cause of a big ruptured ulcer.. it’s heartbreaking to witness, ive slept on the hospital floor for 2 weeks till 10 of may 2024, now im taking care of my dad at home, he is 66 years young, but his massive spine pain doesn’t let him live, the strong pain killers are what supposedly caused the ulcer… so its a vicious cycle and i dont know how to help him to remove that terrible back pain. I wish i could help 😭
Im doing everything in my power so he can be well, but i wish i knew how to remove his pain
Sorry to hear about the very difficult situation that you and your dad are dealing with. In such cases (when spine surgery is not recommended) it may be reasonable to ask a Pain-Management physician if your dad may be a good candidate for a spinal-cord stimulator or a pain-pump.
Wishing you and your dad all the best, good luck 👍
Peace be with you.
In detail to the point discussion ❤
I have no cartilage in my L3 & L4 recently I had a sciatica but something happened and I lost like half my strength in my thigh and my inside leg below my knee went numb it's been 3 months and the pain hurts bad and my leg isn't right it seems like it's gonna stay this way I hate waiting for referrals everything takes so long
Is cervical myelopathy the same as cervical stenosis?
All my doctors seem to think its compeltely ok to go 5 or 10 years being miserable being unable to do any of my hobbies and will not even entertain the idea of surgery. Just the same pt course over and over. In fact they seem to think of me as a psych case for not being being able to just move on and live my life with my herniated discs. Sure doc Ill go right out on the sports field so I can paralyze myself.
I want to
Know in Texas a Doctor sensitive to this situation in the last 5 months only can make few steps.
Hello doc would appreciate your help ive been told i have a L5 s1 disc bulge . Result of Rta on nov 22 . My work (arborist) suddenly came to a stop and there's been nothing but pain since . Took 21 mths for the nhs to get me an MRI. i had t hought the pain originally was coming from the left hip joint as putting weight on that side was agony/ walking/bending down etc.Was convinced that i needed hip replacement. Nhs had injected left hip and had hoped the pain would subside but it didn't make any difference. There's no let up with the pain and it hampers doing many things. Got a long awaited mri scan and discovered disc bulge ,,Been using a stick for while but this last few months been needing crutches. Cant continue like this. WhT surgery would you recommend and is there any risks assoc.
What about motor function weakness? Is prompt surgery necessary, or does it depend on level of weakness?
That is a good question.
Different surgeons will disagree about whether to operate because a patient has motor-weakness. It also depends on whether the weakness is caused by spinal-cord compression vs. nerve compression. This is a complex issue.
@@SpineSurgeonSpeaks what would be the way for a doctor to confirm which one is causing it? I ask because supposedly a lot of people have herniated discs with no symptoms at all, and im afraid of a misdiagnosis based on MRI.
I had cauda equina and was blue lighted to hospital for emergency surgery
That must have been terrifying. Hope you did well 👍
@@SpineSurgeonSpeaks yes it was but I was in good hands. Our NHS is amazing. 🇬🇧🇬🇧
How is the recovery pain?? I have cauda equina also and am afraid to have surgery. I'm 71. Everyone says the recovery is brutal n some are still in pain or worse pain. I understand why people go to the streets for pain drugs.
@@barbaraozor2208 my recovery went really well I had to do physiotherapy and work hard to get back on my feet. I was on my feet less than 24 hrs after my op. I didn't have any choice I had to have emergency surgery. I'm still in pain but not as bad as before my surgery
I have been asking my GP for help and advice but he’s only just pushing more pain killers on me ok
Please get a second opinion from a different dr
these are issues i am facing where i cant get drs to believe me, I wanted to share a few things I am dealing with. First, I have been seen by 7 different drs that i feel refuse to believe my symptoms that i noticed around 3/2024 which other issues, mentally and physically that exist and have for many years but : 1; I have a huge knot on my neck (that drs have not seen nor felt after i asked them to) and if I turn my neck i feel an electric shock and my right shoulder blade has a stabbing pain that has become more often than just occasional. 2; tingling burning like body is asleep down whole backside and in certain places into front. 3; my gait is off and falling has become natural. 4; I used to type 80-90 wm now back to pecking and my beautiful handwriting is now like my kids when they were learning how to write scripts. 5; no more of picking up lose change quickly or trying to get dressed in a hurry, buttoning, tying anything takes about 5 minutes each, so it’s pull over or make sure someone is there to help. 6; bladder and bowel issues. won't go into detail. 7; My feeling sensation has diminished quite a bit in my feet up to almost my knees, fingers now reaching up into my arms to elbows.8; A few other small things. But it is almost 1 year later, and I just had MRI that shows my cord is only at 7mm and is over half compressed but I still had to plead for it, so I finally get to see a neurosurgeon that has put me off due to lack of 1800 dollars. I am single 52 and have been out of work since 2/2023 for symptoms that are possibly related and have no resources, but I do have insurance that would pay them all but that. I am at a loss for what to do. So, guess they are going to let me be paralyzed or dead by the time I can come up with that much. The others are medically diagnosed are severe depression/anxiety, PTSD, severe, debilitating, arthritis in knees, back, thumbs and shoulders which limit many things I do or try to do. any suggestions.
Hello Doctor.
I’m 37 and I had microdiscectomy a month ago because I had severe buttock/leg pain and my pelvis was numb. Symptoms improved but now I’m noticing numbness in my pelvis again, even pain, also buttock and leg pain came back, less than before the surgery but they’re there. Is it normal to have pelvic numbness still? I’ll see my doctor next week and probably he’s going to request an MRI.Thank you for your videos, they’re very clear and informative 🙏🏻
Thank you for your compliment, appreciate it.
Since I am not familiar with your case, I cannot make and diagnostic/ therapeutic recommendations. However, if you are scheduled to see your surgeon it may be quite reasonable to get another MRI (as you suggested) to see if there is any residual/recurrent disc-herniation. Good luck 👍
This might explain my bowel issue. I questioned the pain clinic doc with no response other than see your gastroenterologist.
I hope you will get an evaluation by a spine-surgeon. Good luck.
@SpineSurgeonSpeaks I will look for one. I had neck fusion years ago but my doc retired. Thank you for the information.
Mine isn't early stage. Multi cervical spinal degeneration, disc degeneration, severe arthritic , severe foraminal narrowing in more than one place and thecal sac flattening in 2 places.
Hi doc.. I have l4/l5 disc bulge.. And there is slight bowel incontinence and oab symptom.. After pt my pain in left leg has improved significantly and ther is no numbness in grion or thigh.. Like to know your advice on how to go about..
Thank you for reaching out.
Obviously I cannot diagnose your condition, but I hope you have had this matter evaluated by a spine-surgeon. That is the best course of action.
Good luck to you.
I've been dealing with lower back problems for 16 years and fibro for at least 10 years. It's the worst.
Terrible indeed. Sorry to hear about your difficulties.
Is there a name for the 3rd condition you discussed. I’m suffering exactly this just now , I’ve found I can’t walk as much also less stable on my feet.
Hello Doctor, I have a c6 pinched nerve. I have never had any of spine related issues before. It feels excruciating pain when I wake up after 2-4 hrs of sleep at night on right arm near muscle around upper elbow. I wet the area with cold water for temporary relief. But my life feels like living hell. I am dealing with this for 2 weeks now. I can't sleep lying down horizontally. acupuncture with muscle relaxant and pain killer, helps a lot with pain. Almost go pain free and get 6 hours of sleep lying down and pain slowly gets back next day etc. Is there any posture that I can use to sleep? Also, would this need surgery? Sometimes the nerve unpinches momentarily when I am standing, when standing it's least painful. I feel pressure near index finger tip if nerve gets removed from pinch I feel instant relief and also I feel like something pass my heart sharp pain that instantly goes away in 0.1 seconds. Kind of feels like my heart swallowed something. For 5 days I am only getting 3-4 hours of sleep due to pain.
Thank you for reaching out.
Unfortunately I am unable to give you advice about your specific condition since I haven't examined you or reviewed your records. I would recommend an in-person consultation with a spine-specialist.
Wishing you all the best in the future.
I greatly appreciate the professionalism of your videos. I wonder if you would be so kind as to comment on my current situation. I completely understand you cannot diagnose without more information but I have both cervical and lumbar issues. Just had a c6-c7 ACDF. C4-5 has severe foraminal stenosis, with arm/hand issues. Lumbar: L5-S1 bilateral severe foraminal stenosis and L4-5 spinal canal stenosis with a midline spinal canal AP diameter of 7mm, with foraminal stenosis. Much pelvic discomfort, left leg and foot greatly affected/painful. Surgeon has offered a left sided decompression at L5-S1. Is the canal stenosis with AP of 7mm something I should be addressing? I thank you
Thank you for reaching out.
As you stated, I am unable to diagnose your condition or make treatment recommendations. But, as a general principle, the type of stenosis you described is quite significant, and may need to be addressed. I would suggest getting a second-opinion evaluation from another surgeon for this matter.
I have two videos which may be helpful to you as you weigh your options:
Don't have spine surgery if...
ruclips.net/video/ovSTtD08Olw/видео.html
Why spine surgery fails
ruclips.net/video/ZN_RLDOEBmA/видео.html
Good luck to you 👍
Thank you for reaching out.
As you stated, I am unable to diagnose your condition or make treatment recommendations. But, as a general principle, the type of stenosis you described is quite significant, and may need to be addressed. I would suggest getting a second-opinion evaluation from another surgeon for this matter.
I have two videos which may be helpful to you as you weigh your options:
Don't have spine surgery if...
ruclips.net/video/ovSTtD08Olw/видео.html
Why spine surgery fails
ruclips.net/video/ZN_RLDOEBmA/видео.html
Good luck to you 👍
@@SpineSurgeonSpeaks I thank you for your comments. My current surgeon is very quiet and I find it difficult to get him to discuss in depth. He has commented that he may consider further cervical surgery from the posterior side on C4-5 if ACDF on c6-c7 (April 11/24)doesn't give enough relief.
On lumbar specifically is the 7mm spinal stenosis a concern? Also struggling to understand how a left decompression alone is sufficient? My problem getting a second opinion in Canada, is that I'm told a 2-3yr wait time will be involved to see another surgeon. I'm currently on current surgeon's surgery list for the left sided decompression but haven't a date yet. I have become desperate as life for me has changed significantly but really do want to have the right surgery the first time and not undertake a surgery that may not address everything out of being so desperate. I appreciate any further commitments you can offer. Thank-you so much. Ps. I'm 64yr old
There is mild diffuse disc bulge at L4-L5 level indenting the anterior thecal sac with mild encroachme of the neural foramina. No significant spinal canal stenosis is seen. No other significant lumbar da herniation is noted.
The lower end of the spinal cord and conus medullaris are normal. CSF demonstrates normal signa intensity.
No intraspinal mass is seen.
Opinion:
MRI findings are suggestive of spondylotic changes of the cervical spine with broad-based posterocentral and right paracentral disc protrusion with posterior marginal osteophyte (disc osteophyte complex) and ligamentum flavum thickening at C6-C7 level causing narrowing of the right lateral recess, focal secondary spinal canal stenosis and significant bilateral (right > left) traversing. nerve root compression. The compressed cervical cord at C6-C7 level also demonstrates focal Intramedullary T2 hyperintensity representing myelomalacic cord changes / focal cord edema. Mild posterior disc osteophyte complex with ligamentum flavum thickening at C5-C6 level is also seen causing indentation over the ventral cervical cord surface with no significant intramedullary signal Intensity change.
I have sciatica its very hard to do my activities
Me too 😢
Looking for a doctor who will properly diagnose me after being rear ended as a pedestrian. Insurance company has delayed and denied. Still fighting.
My neck, pelvis, hips and coccyx are
What type of surgery is done for Cauda Equina and how does recovery go?
Thank you for reaching out. Usually a laminectomy is performed to relieve the pressure/ compression of the cauda equina. I should, at some point, make a video about this condition. Stay tuned.
Do you take new patients and what town do you practice.
Have you made the video?
Good job bhi👍
So i had groin numbness from my L5-S1 herniation. Lumbar ESI made it even worse. Had a microdisctecomy and had issues still until the inflammation got a little better and took some oral steroids. 7 months no groin numbness so thats a win. Still some nerve issues though. Not one doctor would even speak on the groin numbness. Like they didn't believe me lol. Still baffles me.
What about scoliosis that had been dormant for decades? I recently found out I have scoliosis in my lower back (Aug 26, 2024). I have been seeing a Chiropractor for the last 4mos which has helped me tremendously but still the pain had shortened my vacations, exercising, obviously not able to lift items that I used to be able too, and house chores such as vacuuming. Should I see an Orthopedic? Do you recommend back surgery? Btw- I turn 48 soon. Thank you in advance.
I'm a 73 YO, male, retired, and a sufferer of numerous Spinal ailments for decades! At 15 yo, in 1966, I fractured my right femur playing HS football. When the full body cast was cutoff in 3 months (after 6 weeks in traction in the hospital), my right kleg was 1" short ! The Ortho dr at the time, was Surprised at the amount of Leg length Discrepancy. After measuring both my parents legs, hee surmised that my mother's right leg was 1/4" short and he opined that I must have started the same way. The LLD was left Unaddressed. He shouldave prrescribed adjusted shoes, but did not. After 20 years or so, the lower back started to ache and was stiff when bending forward. The Chirpractor at that time told me..."Man, You have problems.....and you will have many more down the road". Boy was He RIGHT!. My right side had (hips) dropped, and my body adjusted to this LLD - It was then that I started to semi-accomodate the LLD by insering a 1/4 " lift in my dress shoes, and had the shoemaker add a 1/4" extra rubber heel. But the damage was already done. I now have Sponyliosis Throughout, various sites of mild to moderate stenosis, SI Joint Inflammation for years (according to my Rheumatologist - the SI Joints (Sacrolilitis) inflammation is "Ground Zero" for most, if not all Spinal issues. The Spondy traversed to the top of my Cervical Spine, lost the curvature of the Neck [Military Neck), OA on the Vertebrae and Facet Joints , L2, L3, fore and aft Disc Bulges, various disc herniations, L5-S1 Spondylioethesis , severe DDD throughout and 22 Degrees Dextroscoliosis (various doctor opinions vary of the cause of the Scoliosis but I remain Convinced it is from the LLD). I hve No Reflexes, there is Pheripheral and Central Nervous system damages. I have Radiculapathy in the neck - left side getting worse and worse. In 2018 -2019 , I sought Neuro and Spinal Surgical opinions . 6 of them including Columbia Pres, Mt. Sinai, White Plains and Greenwich Hopsital doctors. All said No One will touch your Lumbar spine - way too much arthritis; maybe I am a candidate for ACDF in the neck "if it gets really bad". That's language for the success rate is not good. As a Ortho nurse told me, unlkess the Dr and the Hospital feel there is a 80% success rate - they won't do the surgeries. The one doctor at Mt. Sinai (who would be my guy if I were to proceed - he had excellent Bedside manners) Dr. Saad Chaudry, indicateed that many doctors count Scoliosis short! It can (and in my case DOES) affect the Central Nervous system, pinching various nerves to vital organs. The Cervical Instabilities [CI], causes Tinnitus, Sinus problems, ear & eye pains, Temporal/Occiptal headaches, Lightheadedness, Vertigo, Costochondritis, even IBS and as this dr profresses....Bladder / Bowel issues and Incontinence. All of which I now Experience. FYI, I have been to at least 6 different Chiros, Acupuncture sessions (40) with very little help, various PT sessions over the years. The human Body is Fascinating! Physiatry is based on symmetry in the Body alignment / Posture. From the LLD , I have OA (bone on bone) in the right Knee [The shorter leg !!l, close in the left knee, OA in the left Hip! Chronic pains and the terrible stiffness is worse part affecting my well being everyday parrticulalry in the past 10 years. Furthermore, I have converted myself into a Lab Rat... I take very supplement known to mankind that "could" offer some help with the Body wide Inflammation (Public Enemy No. 1!) in my efforts to find Relief!. The moral to tthis story....I waited Far too Long to do anytjhing about this decades ago. Oh, I didn't drink water regularly ---Your back discs are 80% Water ! Once they deteriorate - they don't regenerate.
Hi, I've had several back operations. Im fused in my l4 to s1 and also have my SI joint(right) fused. I started of with a limp in my right leg but now can barely walk. Is there anything else you could suggest. Ps not looking for miracles as i know this is only a brief synopsis. Regards, Gerry
Thank you for reaching out. Obviously I can't diagnose your condition, but have you had your hips checked by an orthopedic surgeon? Sometimes hip-arthritis can cause significant disability which can easily be confused with spine problems.
@@SpineSurgeonSpeaks Thank you for getting back to me. That's one thing that's never been mentioned, so I'll look into that. I really appreciate your time. Thank you
Probably too late to comment, but, I've been wondering for a long time if the leg problems / weakness I have are from a combination of issues. Imbalances in electrolytes due to having my gallbladder out, bone weakness. Just to name a few??
I am 37 now, I had C5 - C6 disc replacement done in 2019 due to neck pain but since then the pain has increased alot I am not able to sleep properly and wake up with lot of pain on daily basis. There is lot of muscle spams in the neck region which has restructed my neck movement what should I do? Because doctor doing xray everytime and saying artificial disc is properly placed and there should not be a pain. I am literally down with the pain 365 days 24*7 please suggest other treatment option to get out of the pain for me..
Very interesting 🤔
Thank you very for your professional way to guide patients..
Sir, only 2 points there i have problem ...
if i walk more then 150 meters or stand more then 8 to 10 mnts my both leges become numb and pain ...bothe legs so due to that numbness iv to stope walk and sit for 1 mnt then again i can walk and stand .....only these 2 conditions other wise im ok i can sit stand band i can drive continuously without pain ... doctor advice me after saw my MRI ( SURGERY)....please you advice me what to do ....
Or if you forwerd me share me ....i can send my MRI
My mother has chronic spinal stenosis and she is on number 3 .she is 67 years old she gets numbness on her arms to finger tips and from gluts to toes im just worried at her age will the surgery help or with time will she need more surgeries after she gets her first ??
All they do is send me to a chiropractor and with degenerative disc and arthritis don't know if it's helping or hurting me
Consultation with a spine surgeon may be a reasonable option for you.
@@SpineSurgeonSpeaks yeah I'll try i get my Healthcare through the VA so don't know if they will consider that.
Spinal surgery wrecked my life
Can you please explain more ?
Why are you un-happy ?
Hi, Doctor! If someone has had sciatica for 5 years, but it isn’t disabling and they can still do all the things they love, would you recommend they get surgery just due to the length of time that they’ve had it? (No red flag symptoms, no concerning MRI findings, no neurological symptoms, etc.)
Thank you for reaching out.
I think the best option for any patient facing your situation is to get a consultation with a spine-surgeon, where you can candidly discuss the surgical & non-surgical options. Since each patient's condition is unique, therefore the decision to have surgery vs. not have surgery is also unique to each patient.
I suggest that you watch the following video, which may help you:
ruclips.net/video/ovSTtD08Olw/видео.html
Good luck! 👍
I have spinal stenosis moderate what would be the down time of this surgery?
I am 64
Dr sb better option for this surgery lateral mass screw fixation cerviacl surgery ??
Lateral-mass screws are used for posterior cervical fusion, which is less commonly performed than ACDF.
My video about ACDF is here:
ruclips.net/video/5HPlzxWN2dk/видео.html
and
ruclips.net/video/rboB5n4aIVo/видео.html
Where do you
Practice ? Good getting talk to a surgeon up here in the northeast zz after falling off a deck and landed on my L4 -S1 fusion. I had to go through a physiatrist to get a referral to my former surgeon because I had not been seen in the practice in 3 years … I had to wait 7 weeks with new bilateral leg weakness and greatly increased neuropathy .. the guy never laid a hand on me and tried to give me the bums rush … as a clinician , I not only know how to examine an individual, I do it … off to Boston ..
Sorry to hear about your difficulties, hope you find a good surgeon to help you.
My practice is located in Milwaukee, WI
www.MustafaKhanMD.com
I’m a cancer patient from breast to brain but they don’t see any tumor in my spine they want to have chemotherapy and radiation I’m confused because they didn’t see any tumor my cancer from 2009 can you please help me
Sir, this explanation was v. helpful, thank you. Could you shed some light on the following topic: what should be the relation between symptoms and MRI/RTG, should always be confirmation in the image of the reported symptoms and clear answer why the symptoms happen and what exactly should be remove/decompresed? What is image is more or less the same over a period of time but symptoms changed: from pain in the left leg to pain in the right leg or central pain? How such symptoms could be explained with similar image?
Thank you for reaching out.
There is a high correlation between the findings of the MRI and symptoms, but not 100%.
Usually, most patients with moderate-severe stenosis by MRI will have moderate-severe symptoms.
I have a video which may be of help to you:
Don't have spine surgery if...
ruclips.net/video/ovSTtD08Olw/видео.html
Hello doctor,
I had been having back ache issues for a long period, but since January the pain was unbearable and I consulted an orthopedic doctor and he suggested some pain killer and nerve relaxation medication. It used to work sometimes and sometimes not. In march i took a cordalblock injection, it gave me relif,but on may 19th the pain suddenly reappeared and it was totaly bad. I got pain killer through IV but not much help. I unbearable went a spinal fusion surgery on L3,L4,L5 and S1. There is no pain sincethen but the strength on the affected leg is very less and I am using a walker for my needs. Started physiotherapy since discharge and now zi am able to walk without the help of a waker but my hip falls when walking and I am not 100% as I cant walk like normal people. Can you suggest what has gone bad in my condition.
Sujit
Hello Sujit,
Thank you for reaching out.
Obviously I cannot comment on your specific condition (since the particulars/ details are not available to me), but I can tell you that it is not unusual to have some transient weakness after surgery (if the nerves are severely compressed before surgery). For most patients the weakness gets better over time (may take over a year) with physical therapy. Hang in there, be patient, stay positive. Recovery after spine surgery takes a long time.
Good luck to you 👍
Sure doctor, thanks for valuable advice 👍
Do you believe in the “Double Crush Syndrome” theory? That stenosis in the cervical spine can amplify neurological problems lower in the body, such as arms and legs?
Thank you Sir.
Yes, DCS is a real phenomenon. The most common example is when a nerve is pinched in the neck (i.e. cervical radiculopathy) and the same nerve is pinched at a second location in the arm (such as carpal tunnel syndrome).
@@SpineSurgeonSpeaks that explains exactly what I’m dealing with. I am a sheet metal worker by trade and had carpal tunnel surgery 21 years ago. Worked great. Advancements in hand tools in the last 20 years has really helped with less manual hand cutting. I have chronic neck pain with both spinal and foraminal stenosis. On occasion it’s feels like my carpal tunnel has come completely back, especially at night. In a week or two later it just seems to disappear.
The Surel nerve in my left leg has no response. I notice with the more painful cervical flareups my left foot gets painfully numb and is starting on my right foot as well. But not sure if related.
Thank you so much for your rely!
The best doc
Thank you, appreciate your kind words 🙏
I have an L5 herniated disc. I suspect I've had this for anout a year, but just recently (for the last month) been having severe pain which started in my left hip and leg and has now moved to the right leg as well. I have quite a bit of numbness and tingling as well.
I live in the UK and use the NHS. Im worried that with the waiting list times, I could be in this severe pain for a long time. Any advice?
Thank you for reaching out.
I have quite a few viewers of this channel who have described similar difficulties with the NHS. Unfortunately I am not familiar with the healthcare system of the UK, but would a private hospital be an option for you?
Wishing you good luck, sorry to hear about the bind you are in 🙏
I found out i had hernia disc or a bulging disc narrowing of the spine I got pain from my lower back down to my ankles ,i cant hold my bathroom, or if im in the bed room with my husband pea comes out, ,nume in my thighs and when i wile my doctor had to get me a ct scan, and my pain is unbearable, i have trouble walking and feel heavyness or i trip over sticks, or cant do nothing i wish it would go away, any ideas
I recommend an immediate evaluation by a spine-surgeon.
Wishing you good luck.
or spinal cord stimulation advice me for cervical plzz rply
Since spinal cord stimulators are usually implanted by Pain-Management specialists, I would recommend a consultation with PM to answer this question.
The three surgeons I consulted are no sensitive regardless I had 4 mris 2 rounds of physical therapy since May having and failing physical therapy taking 5 different pills not working 2 injections to the lumbar not effective EMG done etc etc still no help
Drs never offered to help sent me for years in circles. Have the majority of what you have spoken about all I do is to see another day
Thank you for watching. Your comment is very insightful: I agree, sometimes patients are made to go around in circles by their doctors, without clear answers. I need to make a video about it.
@queeny1176 sorry to hear that. I've seen a lot of people, and nothing has worked either. It's very frustrating
Surgery doesn't mean the issue will get better, its a risk in itself and could be worse after surgery
Mostly number 3 for me, a little number 2
When you say “if you wait too long for surgery” how much time exactly do you mean?
That depends on what type of specific problem the patient is dealing with. For example spinal cord compression is a more dangerous problem compared to spinal nerve problem. The former (usually) needs to be treated more urgently than the latter.
My endoscopic spine surgery done 2 month ago.but my incision area is stiff now and pain feel while sitting on a chair or bed. Please told me when I can bend front and properly fine
Thank you for reaching out.
Obviously I am not familiar with your particular case, so I cannot recommend any treatment(s). The best course of action would be for you to ask your surgeon if physical therapy may be helpful. Depending on the type of surgery you had, your surgeon may order a specific physical therapy program for you.
Good luck to you, wishing you an excellent recovery 🙏
going in for my 4th spinal surgery tomorrow ( third cervical) I always get so afraid, filled with anxiety....yikes
Wishing you good luck!
I’m going for my 4th also still no relief
Thank you, Dr. Kahn, I believe that I have the signal #3 number three (from your presentation of “3 signs” ) whereby I have disabling pain due to severe spinal stenosis or in my case severe forminal stenosis. Your discussion about having spinal surgery sooner rather than later will help me in determining a course of action. I have really been vacillating with this decision to go with a total disk replacement via the Pro Disk-C Prosthetic implant. I have been told that I need this implant in two segments, C4/C5 and C6/C7. I really don’t want to have the surgery but I also don’t wanna wait since the pain is really getting in the way of my life and my hobbies. Do you think I could just do one implant on one segment versus two or is this something I should ask my spine surgeon?
Thank you for your question.
The timing of your query is fortuitous, since I just released this video about disc-replacement surgery:
ruclips.net/video/3vt-qLOWdaE/видео.html
For obvious reasons (since I cannot diagnose your condition or make treatment recommendations) it is not possible for me to comment on the specific situation that you described. If you are not sure about your surgeon's recommendation, it would be reasonable to get a second opinion from another surgeon. Good luck 👍
😮i thought my bladder issue was because of having children.😢
Thank you for reaching out. Urinary leakage is very common after childbirth, you are correct. But if you are in doubt, please consult a spine surgeon for further evaluation.
Ugh I've been having neck C4 to C8 pain, numbness, tingling down my arms and hands and facial numbness and tingling. Also L5 -S1 herniated disc/ arthritis issues. Inside of my thighs hips belly Private areas all numb and burning sensations. I have yet to get a doctor to help me. It's annoying and I'm in severe pain. This past year has been the worst but still I'm fighting doctors just to get a MRI on my back. 😢
Here in Canada we handle this differently. I was injured at work and hospitalized. After 5 days I was sent home with prescriptions for 2 different opioids. That was May 2004.
That's it. That's all.
It has now been 20 years and I still do nothing all day, every day and take the doctor prescribed opioids and doctor prescribed cannabis oil. They have abandoned me and left me to die by opioids. That is the Canadian way. So I just move and feel a pop in my spine and then I get the awful pain. Canadian doctors are not able to figure this out. Americans seem to know how to fix this but I have no money. It was all stolen by an unscrupulous doctor in Florida who lied to me.
I look forward to death !
I am very sorry to hear about your experience. Don't know what to say, but I wish you good luck and good health 🙏
The following video may be of interest to you:
ruclips.net/video/1KRRttIkpGE/видео.html
Furst sign is that your surgeon is planning an overseas holiday.
This surgeon deserves a lot more reimbursement than an overseas holiday. If you are a person in need of spinal surgery, you are very lucky to live in an age where it is available to you.
Wow if only ,you just get fobbed off in uk doc told me too many people not enough money ☹️
That's what I keep hearing from my UK viewers, unfortunately. Some people seem to love the NHS but it looks like a lot don't.
Should you see a doctor first
I’m 67 and was scheduled for a 4 level spinal fusion this coming March after a year of constant sciatica pain in both legs . I having been dealing with spinal stenosis for about 10 years.with 15 epurdials ,mild procedure,pt and just about everything for help. After constant pain for over a year I finally agreed to surgery. Only now I have been feeling very little pain since Christmas and decided to postpone it . I have a lot of arthritis but have been super active my whole life and still am. The thought of doing nothing for 3-6 months is overwhelming to me. Do you think I’m doing the right thing postponing it? I have had 3 opinions and all said the same surgery.
I forgot to add I have one disc pushed forward and one back. Level 4&5 but the surgeon included 2&3 bc he said he would have to do another surgery down the road bc of what he saw.
I just want to know if I made the right decision bc the pain has lifted
If I lived close to you, I would come see you. I have DDD for an extended time, had double Laminectomy L4 and L5 in 2003 without Fusion.
Now I have Spondlyolisthesis in that location. Had MRI Nov 11, significant changes since Nov 2023 MRI.
I got ADdicted to Morphine and doing 11,000 Mg/month. I quit Morphine for 15 months now. Took 5 tries to get clean and I never want to ever get Addicted again. I am in level 4-9 pain every day but I live with it rather than take Opiates.
Now I am in great pain, the bulge is now greater at L5-S1 with pain adjacent to that area abd down my right leg.
I think it’s time to surrender to Fusion at these 2 locations.
Thank you for reaching out.
I am sorry to hear about your difficulties. It's never easy to live with the pain that you have described. Wishing you good luck and good health in the future.
I'm in same boat. I got hooked on the opiates after a failed fusion. I've been off then 12 years now and have always dealt with the pain my own way. If I don't work on my back and core strength and mobility every single day I have issues. I re injured this year and finally was tired of my way. Met with surgeon and having an ALIF here in a couple weeks. Never hurts to follow up and get 2nd option. Just lean Into your support group
Looking for a doctor who will properly diagnose me after being rear ended as a pedestrian. Insurance company has delayed and denied. Still fighting.
My neck, pelvis, hips and coccyx are
☹️