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Neurology (Expert Forum)
Piriformis released and continued Sciatic Pain. What now?
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Piriformis released and continued Sciatic Pain. What now?
by Huckleberry, Aug 14, 2003 12:00AM
In 11/01 I had my left piriformis muscle "released". It was in continual spasm after having had my SIJ fused earlier that year. The SIJ was hypermobile as a result of deterioriation and was fused and pinned. But the pain continues!!!
I have a strong hunch that my sciatic nerve is entrapped by the piriformis, which is still just lying there, all in a knot. I've been through injections, massage, exercise, etc., you name it and I've had it.
Sitting, riding in a car, lying down on that side are all horribly painful. Walking and standing aren't too much of a problem, in comparison to the pain caused by sitting or even by inactivity. The pain is at it's highest levels upon awakening and then after sitting all day at my desk and commuting. I won't disclose the levels of narcotics I have to take just to function, just believe me when I tell you they are huge amounts.
I have a 6 or 8" tall stack of films from x-rays, MRI', CT's, and the like. Radiology reports, and diagnostics out the gazoo. It wouldn't be a stretch to say the insurance co. has spent $250K on this physical problem, and I'm no closer to relief than I was when the pain began 5 years ago.
The only thing I can think of is to have the entire piriformis removed and/or the sciatic nerve "rerouted" (probably wrong terminology) in order to alleviate this mess and regain some semblance of a life. I want off the narcotics!!!
Help? Suggestions? Please!!!!
I have a strong hunch that my sciatic nerve is entrapped by the piriformis, which is still just lying there, all in a knot. I've been through injections, massage, exercise, etc., you name it and I've had it.
Sitting, riding in a car, lying down on that side are all horribly painful. Walking and standing aren't too much of a problem, in comparison to the pain caused by sitting or even by inactivity. The pain is at it's highest levels upon awakening and then after sitting all day at my desk and commuting. I won't disclose the levels of narcotics I have to take just to function, just believe me when I tell you they are huge amounts.
I have a 6 or 8" tall stack of films from x-rays, MRI', CT's, and the like. Radiology reports, and diagnostics out the gazoo. It wouldn't be a stretch to say the insurance co. has spent $250K on this physical problem, and I'm no closer to relief than I was when the pain began 5 years ago.
The only thing I can think of is to have the entire piriformis removed and/or the sciatic nerve "rerouted" (probably wrong terminology) in order to alleviate this mess and regain some semblance of a life. I want off the narcotics!!!
Help? Suggestions? Please!!!!
Doctor's Answer
by CCF-Neuro-M.D.-CS, Aug 18, 2003 12:00AM
It sounds like you have been dealing with this problem for a long time. It may be best to be evaluated at an academic center Spine center. Spine centers, such as the one at the Cleveland Clinic, see very complex cases and approach a problem from a multi-disciplinary point of view. You did not mention whether you have had an EMG test. This is a test of the muscle and nerve function, and may be of some benefit.
A second opinion with a neurosurgeon or neurologist who is used to taking care of complex cases such as your would be the best advise I can give.
Good luck
A second opinion with a neurosurgeon or neurologist who is used to taking care of complex cases such as your would be the best advise I can give.
Good luck
I did. It didn't. Actually made the pain worse.