Questions posted in the Neurology and Neurosurgery Forum have been answered by doctors from The Cleveland Clinic Foundation.

Question Title: Still numb after back surgery

Forum: Neurology Forum
Topic: Movement


Dear Dr., I had back surgery about a year ago. I had a rupture between T 8 and 9. I am still numb in my hip and down my thigh and on the bottom of my foot. Should I be concerned? This really has affected my ability to walk.
Thanks,
Kay
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Dear Kay,

After disc surgery, things usually get better in a certain order. Pain is
often the first thing to improve, usually immediately after surgery. Weakness of the extremities can take weeks to months to get better and sometimes not at all. Numbness is the last to improve, again, if it improves at all. This can take months to a year or two. Generally by that time you have seen the majority of the improvement after your surgery.
At times a patient may have residual disc material pressing on the spinal cord requiring further surgery. Notify your surgeon the next time you see
him to be sure. You may need some physical therapy if the numbness persists. They can give you some additional tips on walking and getting around.

Good luck.

Good luck.
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