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Subject: Arachnoiditis-HELP
Forum: The Neurology and Neurosurgery Forum
Topic Area:
Posted by Donna Sawatzky on May 14, 1997 at 01:02:33:
I have been disabled since 1989 (age 43). I've had two back surgeries, both for ruptured disk at L4-5. I have received diagnosis' from two separate doctors (one orthopedic surgeon, one neurosurgeon) of arachnoiditis. I have also been diagnosed with severe foraminal stenosis at L4-5/S1, collapsed disk spaces on several levels, foot drop and bulging disks at other levels. I have the electric shock type pains, numbness, tingling, muscle spasm, and terrible muscle cramping from lumbar region into toes. I wear a dorsaflexion brace.
I have been told to go home and "learn to live with the pain". If anyone was subjected to this type of pain, they would never give that advice. The pain is severe, chronic, intractable. I've had a dorsal column stimulator placed. However, it provides only minimal relief. I have been unable to locate a doctor locally who is even willing to take me as a patient because of this diagnosis'. Some doctors I talk to know what arachnoiditis is, others have never even heard of it. I need help. I cannot continue to live with this level of pain. I can't sit, stand, walk or move around without a terrible increase in pain.
I've been told, "no more surgery at all", it would only worsen my condition. I've tried tegretol, dilantin, desyrel, soma, fenprofen, lodine, and talwin nx. Nothing seems to make the pain bearable. I'm worn out from dealing with the pain. My normal pain level is 5 to 6 on a 10 scale. However, the last few months it has been at about an 8. Any suggestions? Why is it physicians are more than reluctant to treat a patient with a chronic condition? I don't understand. I need
help and all I find is another brick wall to beat my head against. I want my life to be more nearly normal. I know I will never be well, but surely there is some way to improve the quality of my life. I don't know where to turn any more. Please, can you help me. I have also made a friend here in the area who has arachnoiditis and is having the same difficulties finding treatment. So, I am not alone. And, I'm sure there are many, many more people in my situation. Any help you might be able to offer would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance for your time.
Donna Sawatzky
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