Facing Back Surgery

Question

.I was diagnosed with lumbar spinal stenosis in 2006.I didn't relish the idea of back surgery then,and just kept putting it off. 

But my legs have been feeling heavy,and tingling and burning at times,so just recently had another spinal MRI.My spinal cord is now only 6 milimeters 
thick;they usually don't want it to be below 7! 

I haven't met with the neurosurgeon yet. The next step is an EMG on June 1st,so he will have as much information available as possible. 

My questions are,What do I need to ask the neurosurgeon when I see him?! 
How can I prepare for this? .

kwarendorf · Accepted Answer

I had stenosis at L4-L5.  It got to the point where a few time my legs just gave way under me. I had a laminectomy in April 2009. The relief was instant. I was sore from the surgery, but I knew the stenosis related problems were gone!

I spent one night in the hospital. I went home with instructions for PT exercises and a prescription for PT. the first few days were a little slow, but I was back at work after two weeks.

I would ask your doc about rehab/PT. it's really important to have a plan and stick to it. 

Kyle

cramp_n_mystyle · Answer

Thanks so much for all your replies! I had my EMG today;fortunately the only damage seen was a mild neuropathy in my feet.I knew something was up with my feet (no,I'm not diabetic)!

 I'm going to start writing questions down to ask the neurosurgeon.The nurse said today that I would be hearing from him early this next week.I do indeed plan on doing whatever I'm instructed in rehab/PT.I would love to be able to come home right afterwards,but since I live alone,I wouldn't be surprised if I'm sent to a nearby rehab center.Thanks so much for the personal experience Kyle,it's encouraging!

acker · Answer

ask in the back pain forum?

maxthecat43 · Answer

I have no idea really.  Maybe ask what are the realistic expectations for recovery?  Also perhaps how many times he's done this?  Things like that maybe? 

I sure hope it goes smoothly for you!
Tammy

cramp_n_mystyle · Answer

I posted this in the Neurology Forum and haven't gotten any answers yet.As they're moving this thing faster than I even realized at first,I'm anxious to know how I can prepare for the neurosurgeon's appt!

 The pain is getting worse.I'm practically immobile now.Today I was started on MethylPrednisolone 4 MG DosPak (5 days).Hydrocodone was prescribed for the pain.

Facing Back Surgery

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