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Neurology (Expert Forum)
Back problems as related to disabled legs.
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Back problems as related to disabled legs.
by Tery__0, Nov 05, 1998 12:00AM
: I am a 51 year old male. I weigh 165. I need to now if my disabled legs could cause problems with my lower back. Here is a very brief run down of events.
: : 7/02/1967: Machinegun wounds to both legs. Bi-lateral fractured femurs with Ankylosis Fibrous. Left knee: 0-60 degrees flexion. Right knee: 0-80 degrees flexion. Left knee: approx. 15 degrees posterior angulation.
: : 8/1982: Left knee Hyperextention to 20 degrees.
: : 4/1990: Valgus closing wedge osteotomy right femur with plate. Removed 1"
: : " of the femur. Left knee: 45 degrees flexion.
: : 12/92: Total knee replacement - right.
: : 10/96: Total knee replacement - left.
: : 1998: Marked degenerative disc disease at L5-S1, possible producing slight acquired spinal stenosis.
: : My back problems started in the late 70's.
: : If the back is related to the legs...how can I prove it to the VA.
Dear Terry,
Thank you for your question. Leg problems can have an impact on back problems. If, as a result of a leg injury, your gait is impaired, this can cause additional mechanical stress to your spine. However, I cannot tell you if this is true in your case, because this necessitates to assess how your leg problem impacts upon your standing position and your gait. Further, it is very difficult to prove that a leg injury is the cause of back pain, because back problems, such as degenerative disc disease, can develop on their own. It is also difficult to prove that your back problem occured earlier, or is worse because of your leg injury. This will depend upon the opinion of the experts who would review your case.
