Re: Chronic pain

Posted By CCF Neuro MD *!* on December 21, 1997 at 22:25:00:

In Reply to: Chronic pain  posted by Joanne Bills on December 20, 1997 at 12:58:07:







: I have been having chonic pain down my left leg for 4 years now.  I have been through a MRI, Myogram(?), and Spinal Tap..   The only thing which showed up was a degeneration in the C-5-6 cervical disks in my spine.  Here latelly, I have been having the pain down my left leg which brings tears to your eyes.   About 2-3 times after sitting, I have got up to move and my foot on my left leg won't hold me up.   It seems to be asleep or weak like it won't hold me up.  My tests were done 2 years ago.   The pain goes down my left buttock and down the left leg.  Thank you in advance for any information or suggestions.  



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The new developments which you describe suggest that it may be time to
have some of your tests repeated, the symptoms suggest that there is
involvement of the sciatic nerve which origionates in the lumbar spine and
runs down the back of the leg. The nerve can be compromised at any level ,
but the most common level is at the roots as the exit from the spine.
If the problem is not close to where the roots arise it would be difficult
to see anything on a scan.
It is possible that the MRI could be normal again, in which case an EMG
would be the next step, this electrical test can frequently reveal
the exact site of nerve irritation.
While you may have had normal tests in the past it is possible that things
have now progressed to the point where something will
show up on a scan, the fact that your symptoms have worsened
this more likely.I would strongly urge you to have this investigated.
This information is provided for general medical education purposes only.
Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options of your specific medical condition.