Numbness

[Hilary1966]

Hi there, my symptoms are saddle anaesthesia and numbness in lower extremities for over 12 weeks now .I seen a neurosurgeon 4 days back and he doesn't see why I have this problem considering my MRI results.
Mild degenerative changes noted at L4-L5 and L5-S1 levels with mild OA changes seen in the facet joints at these two levels.

A slight left lateral disc bulge seen at L3-L4 level caused slight encroachment  on the left exit with no significant stenosis.

A slight posterior disc bulge at L4-L5 and L5-S1 levels which caused minor encroachment on the exit foramina bilaterally at these two levels and with no significant stenosis.

No bony vertebral fracture or destruction seen.Normal appearance of the conus of the cord


He has ordered  brain thoracic and neck scans.My biggest concern is cauda equine would your agree that these results would not suggest this should happen,and that I am worrying myself unnecessary .The numbness has started to move upwards into my stomach,with pins and needles sensations in my hands at night.When I pin ***** all areas that I have spoken of I can feel the pinprick but yet it feels numb tight and thick an altered sensation.Your opinion is much appreciated thanking you Hilary 1966

[Hilary1966]

Hi there have been told I have mild ms scarring found on thoracic scan with contrast finally an answer after nearly five years of been told I had somotoform disorder.Doctors and neurologists need to listen a little harder when patients discuss their symptoms after all Thats what we are paying for when we have a consolation .Thank God I finally have an answer and a neurologist I can relate to,now I can finally move on with my life and live it as best I can with this condition.

[Christopher R Newey, DO]

Thanks for using the forum. I am happy to address your questions, and my answer will be based on the information you provided here. Please make sure you recognize that this forum is for educational purposes only, and it does not substitute for a formal office visit with a doctor.

Without the ability to examine and obtain a history, I can not tell you what the exact cause of the symptoms is. However I will try to provide you with some useful information.

Some of the typical symptoms of cauda equine syndrome are lower motor neuron findings (compared to upper motor neuron findings that may occur with brain or spinal cord injury), asymmetric motor involvement, absent ankle reflexes, and/or bladder involvement. Given that you have sensory findings on the stomach and hands, it would go against cauda equina syndrome unless you have two diseases. I agree that you should have complete imaging of your brain and spinal cord, especially with your current symptoms. You may need a lumbar puncture to evaluate for possible inflammatory markers that may be causing your symptoms.

Thank you for this opportunity to answer your questions, I hope you find the information I have provided useful, good luck.