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Neurology (Expert Forum)
15 year old fusion ( T8 thru L1) , What to expect in future
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15 year old fusion ( T8 thru L1) , What to expect in future
by Anthony-J, Jun 10, 1999 12:00AM
Posted by Anthony J. on June 10, 1999 at 10:35:28
In 1984 I sustained fractures to my T10 & T11 vertebrae from a car accident. I suffered temporary paralysis from the trauma and swelling to the area and spent a total of four months in the hospital plus another eight months in outpatient PT. A fusion was performed on me from T8 thru L1 with Harrington rods and are still in me.I have partial Drop Foot (right side) and slight atrophe around my right hip. I am now 34 years old and considering the above, I have been able to get around quite well and can do most common day to day activities with little or no pain. Lately, I've been in more pain and for longer periods of time than usual. I think that this may be attributed to the fact that I have not been exercising lately and also put on some extra weight. My question to you is that assuming I address the exercise and weight issue, will that be enough to continue as I was or are there long term problems associated with my situation that I may soon face. Also what preventative measures can I take if any ? .... Can Glucosamine Sulphate help in any way?
Posted by CCF Neuro MD msf on June 10, 1999 at 13:25:42
Dear Anthony,
Thank you for your question. Certainly, temporary inactivity and weight gain could explain your increased difficulties, and these issues need to be addressed. However, if the symptoms persist, and especially if you have more difficulty walking, I would encourage you to see a neurologist. Usually, vertebral fusions do well over time, but additional problems can occur. One of them is called a syrinx, and consists of a cavity developing in the middle of the spinal cord. This happens sometimes a long time after a spinal cord injury, and could account for increased pain and weakness. A syrinx can be treated surgically in some cases. I cannot determine whether you have a syrinx or not based on your message. Again, inactivity and weight gain could be enough to explain the increase in pain level. But after examining you, a neurologist could tell you more precisely if other tests should be performed (knowing that an MRI is not likely to be feasible with the Harrington rods). The main preventative measure is to maintain a reasonable level of exercise.
I hope this helps.
