chronic neuropathy

I have had 2 cervical fussion 1 at c3/4 in 1980 and 2nd in 1987 at c4/5 on going issues since, recent diagnosis of chronic neuropathy from fussions after nerve conduction studies. Is there anything I can do to reduce the symtoms (symptoms), pain numbness tingling in extremeties I'm 50 years old have a hard time focusing on what am doing with all these going on at once. any suggestions.

[LLWB]

I don't have the long term effects you have as my surgery was just past June, but I still have the pins & needles and tingling. Mu neuro said the nerves may not ever heal. Any improvement usually occurs within a year. If you find out anything different, please post it. Good luck, I know how distracting all that buzzing can be.

[jcverive]

Mike,

Most chronic neuropathies respond well to serotonergic meds (e.g., selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, as in many antidepressants: Cymbalta, Lexapro, Elavil, Pamelor, etc.), nerve desensitizers (like the antiseizure meds Klonopin, Neurontin, and Lyrica), and signal blockers (like antiseizure med Keppra), and other serotonergic/dopaminergic meds like Tegretol and Trileptal. Some people also get relief from muscle relaxants (baclofen, ). Most people also get relief from narcotics, but in the long time they can make the pain worse.

A reputable pain clinic or neurologist ought to be able to help. I find pain clinic doctors to be more resourceful, though in either case you will get the best results if you (or a loved one) are willing to be a firm advocate in your pain treatment. Force doctors to think "out of the box" if your pain is not being resolved!