Pseudogout in the lower spine (L5)

[Agiegus]

I have chronic pain in the lowerback and was diagnosed with CPPD related to chondrocalcinosis by a spcialist who is a surgeon.  Is this a common condition?  (I have symptoms of a pinched nerve in the lower back and am in constant pain).  Should I get another opinion?  My specialist is pushing me to have surgery and I am only 60 years of age.

I don't like the odds of success with these options.

[Rena705]

Hi there...sorry to hear of the problems you are having but I believe that you may have more success in the forum that is dedicated to back pain since Pseudogout is caused by the collection of calcium pyrophosphate crystals in joints. It can be initially be misdiagnosed as gouty arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or osteoarthritis because the symptoms are similar to those of these conditions and is related to the back.  I have to agree with Momzilla that you will get more response from that forum.

Hope you get some relief soon and sorry we couldn't be more help here.

Lots of Hugs

Rena

[Momzilla]

Hi! Welcome!

I'm not even sure what CPPD is, nor chondrocalcinosis, but if a surgeon is recommending surgery, I'd ALWAYS go for a second opinion.  ALWAYS.  If you are in constant pain, I would hope there is SOME treatment for you.  Sometimes surgery is a good option.  But I would definitely go for another opinion.

Personally, I had very successful fusion surgery in my cervical spine.  It improved my life immensely.  But, you do need to find the right surgeon, for sure.  And make sure it is your only option.  Surgery is serious business.

I think you may find better help on some of the other forums, too, like Chronic Pain, or Arthritis forums.   We talk mostly about Multiple Sclerosis here.

Good luck to you.  Feel better!

Momzilla*