Quadricep Weakness from Femoral Nerve Damage

[n4eow]

EMG/NCV tests showed Femoral nerve damage following an Jan 5, 2009 epidural in the L3 to L5 verterbrae.  In 2 months I lost 2" in thigh from atrophy.  Neurosurgeon performed Lumbar Laminectomy March 10 to decompress pressure on nerves.  In addition to continuing numbness, tingling and pain in thigh and leg,  I have lost significant strength in the quadricep muscles, right leg giving away, loss of balance, limited walking ability, etc.  Prior to epidural I could easily lift 60 pounds on each leg on quadricep machine at Gym.  I can still do fine on left leg but less than 5# on right.  Despite prescribed leg exercises, walking, etc,  I have seen little if any progress in strength and none from atrophy losses.  I seem to have improved quadricep response when flexing my thigh muscles but no gain in functional strength.  

Are such symptons normal during nerve regeneration?  Can I expect improvement as nerve regeneration progresses?  it has been 5 months since the epidural;  do you have any estimates of what time elements I can expect for full recovery?  Although 81,  I am in very good health and physically active.  Prior to Jan 5, easily did 20 min on treadmill at 4 mph in addition to other gym exercises two to three times a week.