Complex issues--spinal cord lesions and disc problems

[HereIam]

Hi all--I've been seeing a whole bunch of doctors regarding nerve problems caused by a "Perfect Storm" of a cord compression at C6-7 with multiple lesions in the same area.  It's painful and it's confusing, involving both central and peripheral nerves.  One doctor prescribed Epidural Steroid Injections and when I went to the appointment the anesthesiologist would not perform the procedure.  He stated there are studies suggesting these injections can be toxic to MS lesions, and since my C spine and T spine are covered, he wouldn't go near me.  

So, on to the physiatrist who has told me that with this lesion load, it would be difficult to find any surgeon to work on my spinal column if I "blew" a disk.  And, given that I have multiple herniations and bulging disks in the C and T spine, we need to arrange my life so that I never, ever blow something out and require surgery.  

So, back to the neurologist who has tried every pain management cocktail he could, all to no avail, and tomorrow I will be fitted with a TENS unit to control the pain and am banned FOR LIFE (I'm 53) from lifting anything over 10 pounds, pushing or pulling things of any heft and never lifting anything over my head.  

All this is in the hope that I never require back surgery.  

The questions I would like to ask at the doctor's forum (which isn't taking questions at the moment?) are:

Is it accurate that a surgeon would not want to perform surgery on my spine due to all the lesions located there?
Is it necessary to be so conservative with my body in the hopes I don't blow something out?  

[sllowe]

So glad too that that unit is providing relief.  The cause of spinal cord lesions can be due to demyelinating disease (as was suggested to you by your Dr.), MSm transverse myelitis, etc. but also infectious diseases (not sure of the stats here though).

The MRIs imaging and studies should provide the distinction between the two, along with blood work.

Did that Dr. give you any of that printout about the suggested toxicity? Many of us here like to keep current on various souces of information - if you have it, if not, that is fine too..

See you around!

[Fluffysmom]

Hi, I'm so glad that the TENS unit is working for you!  What a relief!

This is a very interesting topic.  I've had three lumbar epidural injections in the past, and only one was of any help at all; the other two increased my pain.

My latest MRI report states that I have "linear multisegment T2 hyperintense lesions" in my C and T spine. It says that "this appearance is atypical for demyelinating disease but it cannot be excluded".

I don't have a diagnosis.  I have bulging discs at many levels.  Lots of pain.  I do have an older TENS unit that I haven't used for a while; I think I'll find it and see if it helps.

I'll be interested to read what more you find out about this situation; I'm 46 and see some serious disc issues in my future; I herniated a lumbar one in December of last year (lifting my cat in his carrier).  

Take care,

Kathy

[HereIam]

Hi and thank you for responding to my post.  I also hope youngatheart pops up with some advice for me.  

As for the studies and findings about the epidural steroids. the anesthesiologist had a stack of papers he had printed off the web on that topic.  The studies SUGGEST that the injections MAY BE toxic to MS lesions on the spinal cord.  Based on that, he wouldn't do the procedure except for under fluoroscopy to guide the needle and if I signed a waiver 100 pages long.  And, since the epidural injections aren't a cure, just a treatment, it was not worth the risk.  

Yes, the lesions are demyelinating--meaning they are MS lesions, at least that's what I've been told.  Are there other types of lesions that may appear on the spinal cord?  

At any rate, I have the TENS unit on now, and for the first time in 3 months I do not have zinging, zapping, tingling, pain, etc., going down my radial nerve.  It's odd to have those sensations wiped out just like that, I'd become so used to living with them they'd become a part of me.  I feel like I can breathe again.  

[sllowe]

Hi Hereiam,

Welcome to the forum.  My gosh! I'm so sorry for all your pain.  I hope one of our members "youngatheart" is around, as I think she may be able to provide you with here thoughts on what you are experiencing with your spinen and pain managment.

I was completely unaware of studies and findings related to epidural steroids and to  lesions.  Are these demyelinating lesions? What did the Dr. (who ordered the injections) have to say about the anesthegiologist's recommendation and comment about the toxicity?

Sorry for all the questions - Thank you for joining us, and I hope we are able to help out.  HOpe your PT helps keep the bulging at bay.....

[HereIam]

H LuLu

And, thank you for your response.   Yes, it is very complex!  Today I'm getting an external TENS Unit.  I will wear that for up to a year before they talk about implanting one.  That's not something I would do very casually, I'm not real fond of foreign objects taking up residence in this body of mine.  Am hoping for relief from the pain and discomfort.  Fingers crossed.  

Hereiam

[Lulu54]

Hi Herelam,
I'm sorry you are unable to get answers from the expert forum here because you oculd use some it sounds like!  You say the TENS unit will be implanted tomorrow?  Hopefully your doctors have explained it thoroughly to you.

As for whether the neurosurgeon is right or being overly cautious with you, we can't second guess that.  

Here's hoping that the surgery goes well and improves your pain tremendously.

Hopefully you will check in and let us know how it turns out for you.

wishing you well,
Lulu