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Neurology (Expert Forum)
Long-term lumbar and cervical nerve root compression
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Long-term lumbar and cervical nerve root compression
by Barbarazme, Oct 29, 2002 12:00AM
Please refer to my post of 5 September 2002 re: lumbar nerve root compression. I have since followed up with my neurosurgeon. Although he agrees that I have significant cervical and lumbar pathology, he recommends continuing with conservative management UNTIL (and if) I develop further neurological deficits, such as muscle weakness.
My concerns are primarily related to long-term nerve compression. Do you believe the neurosurgeon’s recommendation is prudent (understanding that you have not examined either me or the MRI?) As stated in my earlier post I already have numbness of my right hip and lateral right lower leg. Is “waiting” for further deficits detrimental? Will the compressed nerves (there are 4) eventually die?
I have prepared myself for long-term management of this disease, whether conservative or surgical. I just want to be able to make the most informed decisions possible.
By the way, do you have any comment on “Vax-D” (veterbral axial decompression?)
Thank you for your excellent service. I appreciate it very much.
My concerns are primarily related to long-term nerve compression. Do you believe the neurosurgeon’s recommendation is prudent (understanding that you have not examined either me or the MRI?) As stated in my earlier post I already have numbness of my right hip and lateral right lower leg. Is “waiting” for further deficits detrimental? Will the compressed nerves (there are 4) eventually die?
I have prepared myself for long-term management of this disease, whether conservative or surgical. I just want to be able to make the most informed decisions possible.
By the way, do you have any comment on “Vax-D” (veterbral axial decompression?)
Thank you for your excellent service. I appreciate it very much.
Doctor's Answer
by CCF-Neuro-M.D.-JT, Nov 02, 2002 12:00AM
Usually we recommend conservative therapy for 6-8 weeks and if there's no improvement or worsening of symptoms, then surgery becomes the next step. However, many variables are taken into consideration as to when or if the surgery should be performed such as the patient's age, current medical problems that may make the surgery or recovery period more complicated such as severe lung disease or diabetes, and severity of the back/neck problem. If the symptoms are significantly affecting your daily life and things just aren't getting any better with conservative therapy, then consider getting a second opinion from a spine specialist. With long term compression, there can be permanent damage to the nerves.
As for Vax-D, it has shown to be of some benefit in 2 relatively recent studies with 60-70% patients undergoing multiple treatments (about 10 or more) reporting an improvement in symptoms. However, if there is significant nerve damage or signs of serious nerve compression, neurological deterioration or deficits, then more aggressive therapy may be warranted. This needs to be discussed with your neurosurgeon. Again, consider going for a second opinion at a major academic hospital with spine specialists, especially if you have a complicated case.
Good luck.
As for Vax-D, it has shown to be of some benefit in 2 relatively recent studies with 60-70% patients undergoing multiple treatments (about 10 or more) reporting an improvement in symptoms. However, if there is significant nerve damage or signs of serious nerve compression, neurological deterioration or deficits, then more aggressive therapy may be warranted. This needs to be discussed with your neurosurgeon. Again, consider going for a second opinion at a major academic hospital with spine specialists, especially if you have a complicated case.
Good luck.
Member Comments (3)
by JerryNWaycross, Jan 21, 2003 12:00AM
I had cervical fusion on C4-5, C5-6 in 1999. I took a fall on May of 2001 and reinjuried my neck, shoulder torn rotator cup and lumbar where I had lumbar fusion in 2001 due to the fall. I have been told that in falling I injured my neck again and have permenant nerve damage. What can be done. The pain is 24 yours a day almost.
by JerryNWaycross, Jan 21, 2003 12:00AM
If anyone can give me some advice I would appreciate it. You can email me at ***@****
by pitzells, Mar 25, 2008 12:45AM
A related discussion, fibro was started.
