Thank you, doctor, and thank you to the gentleman who allowed this interview to be broadcast. It answered some questions that I have had and now I know how to better talk with my neurosurgeon. I had L4-5 spinal fusion and a laminectomy in Dec. 2017, which restored my ability to walk without total neuropathy from the waist down! I worked at a school and was going to wait six months until summer, but he said my back would not have lasted until then!
Thank you for the comment! I could not agree more about the patient. I really admire the courage people have in putting themselves out there in the hope it will help others. I'm so glad it did!
I'm a 63 years old female now suffering with a failed laminectomy fusion along with degenerative disc disease, facet arthritis, and spinal stenosis above my L4-L5-S1 fusion. I have radiating pain down both my legs with numbness on the tops of my feet and toes. 18:58 My mobility isn't good and walking around makes the pain much worse. I have no quality of life wishing it would end because of bad medical treatment.
My heart goes out to you im at that cross road but have deceided fusion is not the route for me..why do it? I have not seen one person with a fusion that has benefited. Rods and screws not for me.
Ask your doctor about prolotherapy (basically sugar water) shots that are injected into the joints to irritate the ligaments so they become stronger. Unlike steroid injections, they don't disintegrate the bone. They have worked wonders for me (in controlling my sciatica, lumbar, and shoulder pain) for over 4 years. They are still considered experimental (so I have to pay out of pocket), but my Dr says there is plenty of evidence for them.
@@carolmartin3028 I'm in the same boat, I have weakness in my lower extremities and no one even believes me. Family members think I am faking it. I have weakness in my legs and in both of my feet. I can flex my feet but walking for a long distance is another story. I have difficulty doing chores around the house and spend most of the time online reading and watching television. Not a great life. I don't want to have surgery bc I know people who have had failed back surgeries.
I have the same exact problem to the T. Except mine is messing with my bowels and badder. From the same fusion. They want to put a stimulator which requires them running wires hooked up to my spine. I to just want to give up. My life isn't fun or exciting but pain, discomfort and making my mental state even worse. 😮💨
I hope my insurance company sees this video. I was scheduled for surgery last November, however two days before the surgery, they denied it. They said I didn't need it and to do physical therapy. I've tried that in the past and didn't work. Since then I just told myself I'd have to deal with it. It's gotten a lot worse with numbing in my foot and more pain in my legs. I can't do anything like I used to therefore without the life I used to have.
Live your life ,surgery will make it so much worse it destroyed me i was having extreme pain when bending over and my feet were getting numb but after a weekend of rest i was fine ,but at work it fired up again the doctor said it would be better after the surgery ,well its gotten worse and coming back and dont ask for medicine, the doctors own it i guess and its all theirs and no one else's
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@@mikeduncan2353 I had to have two micro discectomies at the same time on a moderate and severe herniated discs. My surgeon said therapy wouldn't help. Woke up feeling 100%! Was walking down the hospital corridor that evening. Next day I went home. Wore a back brace for 6 weeks. That was 22 years ago when I was 40. I had no choice because I couldn't even work. Not sure what procedure you had or why it didn't work. Maybe you need a revision.
Not take away from this man's experience. Bit after the FM Ablations steroid shots and countless adjustments. After 4 years of this crap I googled suicide and spinal stenosis and ended up here. It's not even the constant groin pain or thigh pain ,the throbbing in my knees and feet.... constantly feeling like I have shin splints. It's everything else. I've developed sever tendinitis is my right elbow from falling over trying to get dressed I'm now missing half my teeth from my hips giving out while using stairs. My family hates me because I feel like it takes every breath I have to deal with pain. And I just keep getting blown off by doctors (God bless covid) I have no clue what to do at this point.
I'm 62 years old and in good health outside of arthritis and spinal stenosis diagnosed in 2019 and was told I would need a fusion. This was through the VA and they didn't really do a thorough explanation and we decided to go the conservative route with physical therapy and chiropractic. My x-rays at the time mentioned that there was crowding at the cauda equina. I had never heard of that and look that up and was alarmed to see that that's a serious situation. When I questioned my doctor he said that I didn't have the syndrome because I wasn't having any bowel issues even though I was telling him about having more urgency in my system. Since that time I got two other opinions. We're confirming the same thing of spinal stenosis throughout the spine. I have spondylolisthesis at levels 4, 5 and S1. And a scoliosis at level 2 & 3. One doctor said that I needed surgery in those areas but he also saw some things in the cervical and gave me a brace to wear while driving. They instructed me to get the lumbar issues taking care of first. I then went and saw a third doctor a renowned sports Doctor surgeon that looked at the same things and recommended a laminotomy and wasn't so sure on the fusion because he wanted to see x-rays to see the movement which they do show movement. I took this information back to the VA and they did more x-rays etc and then determine that I needed to be referred out to a specialist because my situation is more complex. Since 2019 I have been complaining about not being able to walk and although overall leg syndromes that everyone else experiences with this situation. So now I'm over at the Scripps program and the doctor I'm assigned to looked over everything and determined that yes I need multi-level surgery well where they will go through the front and the back and maybe decide to do the surgery. noticing Auto daddy also noticed that I have severe arthritis in the left hip as well as arthritis in the right so he referred me to a orthopedic surgeon first to address my hip before he's considering doing surgery. So apparently I'm going to be getting a hip replacement before I have the back surgery. I look like I'm in fairly decent shape and athletic but I could barely walk a mile every day and all of the other symptoms so I was looking for relief and actually ready to do the surgery and then the guy recommended that I think the Doctor is recommending the right thing but I just don't really know that because I'm not the expert. I know I've had some issues that I get concerned with as far as the bowels but right now they are not concerned about that and I know that I've only gotten worse over the last 3 years and listening to all these videos I'm only going to get worse so I'm following the protocol but I don't know if I'm doing the right thing but again I don't want to shorten my life cuz I do have severe stenosis and degenerative this disease and the scoliosis. The sports doctor had the most conservative recommendation with the laminectomy but the most recent surgeon is suggesting the 3 level surgery. The second doctor I saw again was more concerned with cervical issues that he sees
With worsening bladder function your severe spinal stenosis is the most pressing issue. That needs to be dealt with before the hip. The VA can be clumsy but they have excellent people if you can get to the right ones. What you need is a spine surgeon who specializes in deformity.
@@BestPracticeHealth The doctor I saw at Scripps was Dr. Uhciyama the division head of neurosurgery. He's the one that recommended the hip which I finally got done August 28th. The hip was now at avascular necrosis stage 🤷🏿♂️. Again the VA dragged out this process
I'm under 40 with spinal stenosis in the L4-L5 area. I usually have a high threshold for pain, but this pain is almost unbearable. The pain often goes down my legs. Sometimes I will get what I can only describe as a catch in my lower back that will take me off my feet if I don't have something to hold on to. I have been put on Cymbalta for the nerve pain. I've had an epidural that didn't last a week. I've not had the bathroom issues yet. There are days I feel like my testicles are put in a vice grip. Some days I have pain that shoots from my groin to my knee, first on one leg then the other. That makes it very difficult to get up and walk it off like I do with calf muscle cramps. I saw a neurosurgeon earlier this year who diagnosed me with Stenosis and told me that it was moderate. There is not a day that goes by that I'm not in pain.
I have degenerative disk disease, spinal stenosis, osteoarthritis. Had sciatica down my left leg. Doctors tried discetomy, laminectomy and finally did a spinal fusion L4 L5, L5 S1 in Nov. 2011. All came back in 2019. I was put through physical therapy, had nerve tests done. They tried different meds on me for pain. My Orthopedic surgeon told me there was nothing more he could do. My spine is too unstable for more surgery. Not to look for another doctor. They would do surgery just for the money. Not to ask for medical records to be forwarded to a new doctor. He scared me and made me believe there's nothing left to be done. I asked for my medical records a month ago and this same surgeon basically lied about what he told me. Said my MRI showed spinal stenosis of L3 L4. I just had a lumbar epidural steroid injection on Nov. 15th. On the questionnaire it asks if you've had changes in bowl or urinary habits. I said no because I keep thinking my urgent need sometimes to urinate is due to age. I'm 65. After watching this video now I don't know. The pain doctor just took my word on an MRI that was made in 2019 and hasn't seen a new one of me yet. I see him Dec.1st to be checked up after the injection and see how it's working. I'm going to tell him about my urgent need to urinate sometimes. It's very sudden and sometimes I can't hold it until I reach the bathroom. I just started feeling this issue come on with bowel movements. Now I'm worried. I'm going to update the pain doctor and let him know what's going on. Before the injection I had about 15 to 30 minutes to be up walking until spasms in my back force me to stop. Great video.
My Doctor told me surgery wouldn't help. He referd me to pain management and physical therapy that said they couldn't help me, then I went to a back specialist who wants me to get a shot around my spinal canal, all out of pocket because my insurance left when my job did. Now there is pain all through my spine, numbness, a shooting pain from back to toes, bathroom issues. Nobody wants to help me. Thank you Dr for the video. I now know that I'm in the home stretch being at UTI issues. God bless you
Thanks for the comment! Unfortunately, I can't see you or anybody else, as I Developed essential tremor which has taken me out of the practice of medicine. I figured the best way I can help people at this point is by helping them find their way to the best doctor for them. What's going on with you? Have you seen a doctor? Surgeon? Let me know.
@@BestPracticeHealth Thanks, and yes, I have seen multiple doctors, had EMG, CT, MRI's but no solutions yet for loss of movement in left foot/toes. I'm hoping for a spinal surgical solution soon.
@@BestPracticeHealthI’m so sorry. That had to have been - and likely still is - such a difficult loss for you. Your empathy and compassion for others is unique and so appreciated. Thank you for choosing to continue to help others by sharing your expertise!
I have severe spinal stenosis. I have a narrower than normal spinal canal. I had a Laminectomy 3 1/2 years ago for L4 & L5. It helped for maybe 2 years or less and I was able to walk and get my life back. Now at 73 I have severe spinal stenosis in L1-L5. My Sports Medicine & Pain Clinic doctors have told me they wouldn’t even know where to start. So they said no surgery; it will get worse with age. I take 1800mg of Gabapentin a day plus 2 anti-depressants. I’m told not to walk unless I have to and same with standing. I’ve been having bladder & bowel problems for about a year now. It’s getting worse. I have accidents from both but not always. I mostly stay home now; I had to move in with my son and family. In your opinion do you feel I might have any options?
I have spinal stenosis have rods screws fusion lumbar L4 L5. Surgery done Jan 22 amazing team in Wyoming. Going for Mylar next month. Have alot of pain below lumbar tailbone, bathroom issues. They want to do injections in my cervical . I'm 68, first surgery was 10 hrs. Made a difference in lumbar, but the rest of me is going cervical and daily. Thanks for video. Prayers for anyone having issues. Now for pain Meloxicam helps some, muscle relaxer some but white pain is so severe I use pot, one hit 10 mins later no pain, pressure still there. Drs won't give pain meds anymore. So you self medicate.
Hi, Sharon. Thank you so much for your comment period and for sharing your story. It sounds like you've been through a great deal with your spine. While I cannot comment on the spinal condition given the information presented, I do want to recommend you think about substituting CBD for THC. Some people get the same pain relief, as well as help with anxiety, from CBD. But without all of the psychoactive side effects and potential for addiction.
In Ca. Orthos do a lot of spine. Last one left me in intense pain and could barely walk. Neurosurgeon bailed me out. Still limp but short hikes are ok. No pain but pins & needles and one numb foot. L5/S1 and a lot of narrowing 6 years later. Time for another Neuro.
@@tmreed I am so happy it worked for u. I liked my surgeon. He was honest and told me it woukd probably not help with pain.. I have arthritis. The thing is my fusion made my above and below worse.
You are such an amazing Specialist. I need surgery but l'm so scared and l am under 50 years old and l was super fit my whole life and now l can't work or anything. You have responded to me and l am so thankful to you so much. I live with severe chronic pain 24/7. l'm scared as it's in my whole spine. :(
@@BestPracticeHealth Every time l go for follow up appointment - It's a different Training Neurosurgeon Specialist which l find ridiculous as they are not getting to know me or what is happening to my body. Without pain medication l can hardly walk and sleeping is hell pain in my whole spine. I have been informed by them that l need surgery (they didn't say what type of surgery I will ask in my next appointment) on my spine in neck area as it's Severe Left C6/7 foraminal Spinal Stenosis irritating the left C7 nerve root and also moderate foraminal stenosis at the left c4/5 and bilateral C5/6 levels. Also, something is happening in the middle of my spine now and in lower spine. So, they are sending me to have another MRI on my whole spine to see what is happening. I am an ongoing outpatient with my hospital pain clinic. I was first diagnosed in 2019 and l am deteriorating. I'm scared as l can seriously feel my body is going paralyzed on me. :(
Hi I am so sorry that you are so young and have all of this..mine started at fifty seven..hiked , walked a lot , ate well..and after my spinal fusion it still hurt now I have lots of bad back diagnoses…severe stenosis, bulging disc, tear in disc, degenerative disease, facet joint arthritis, blah , blah m blah,.wish you the best. Find something you like to distract you..try meditation. I tried pottery last night with the bag stuff..not great but a hour of distraction. I take Tramadol to take the edge off. My l3 to S1 affected…could be upper but mri did lower. I pray you get better.
What state are you in? And most states injured workers have the right to choose their own doctors. Here in Arizona, that’s true unless your company is self insured.
@@BestPracticeHealth I am in Georgia. Already had to use my one "change of doctor" I think I am finally seeing the right doctor but we will see. Just had to get updated MRI and Xrays. Fingers crossed
I have had two lumbar fusions on L4-L5. That have both failed. I can barely walk. I can’t participate in familial activities. I go to Dr appts with a Walker, sometimes a wheelchair. I have neuropathy so bad that it’s ridiculous. I am going to see a neurologist in September ( earliest I could get an appointment ). I am seeing the orthopedic surgeon on Thursday 6/22/23 for a check up. He will not see me again after this because I don’t get any relief from seeing him. I wish I never had the two fusions. I had the second one because he said the screws came loose from the first time. Why I’m still in this kind of pain…could the screws have come loose again? Wth??!! Well, at least I got that off my chest. Thank you for reading this.
I was diagnosed lumbar spinal stenosis (had MRI for accident) 10 years ago and still have no pain or suffering ? I do work out 5 days a week and do squats and dead lifts, although I don't do any personal best lifts. Working out and core exercises must be the the key to fighting it off ? I'm 55.
This is the key and 100% the best way but unfortunately after 3 years I keep slipping at L5 and the pain and complications are horrific. Phisio 100% helped but unfortunately that area is bloody complicated.
The effective dose of CBD really depends on the individual. And truthfully, sadly, it may never work for you. You just have to try it. I really recommend you find a knowledgeable person to help you choose the preparation, route, and hopefully reliable supply. Good luck. Please let me know how it turns out.
Mine became life threatening in my neck…posterior laminectomy and fusion in my neck. It was during the pandemic and the exposed me to Covid. I didn’t get Covid…I also did not receive proper after care as they isolated me without having Covid for a month. I’m a person that loves natural healing. I’m a Reiki Teacher and an interfaith minister. I’m not one to get down. I’m very depressed lately and the chronic pain and pain medications I wish I wasn’t needing to use them. I need more surgery and my neck…some days it’s sad to say I wished I just let myself transition. That causes more sadness. I am unable to care for my home and family as I use to. I’m very old fashioned and kept my home very clean. I haven’t been able to do much and when I do it’s not enough. I miss my kids. They have grown so much in the last three years. Two of those years I lived in a reclining chair for two years and had a lot of difficulty walking. I just pour my coffee on myself without warning at times. I can cut my own food now…I could for over 2 years. I walked 16km a day and now I’m stuck at home all of the time unless it’s to the doctor. Most of my appts are by phone. I cannot use the a walker around the home. I can relate to the urination and #2 just as this gentleman as well. I cannot handle it. I keep holding on for my family. I hope I can come and put something positive here soon.
It’s not uncommon to have severe neck pain due to progressive instability, following cervical laminectomy. Only a flexion and extension x-ray with demonstrate the problem. It’s unbelievably painful, and could be causing the symptoms your describing. I would advise that you have your doctor do flexion and extension x-rays if not already done. Also, are you under the care of a good surgeon? You really need to be. It’s not normal to be having this much pain this far after surgery.
Yes. There’s never a Harmon getting a second opinion when things like permanent nerve damage are in play. You might consider seeing a neurosurgeon this time, as you’ve already seen a Orthopedic Surgeon. In my opinion, the individual is more relevant than the kind of training, but as a general rule, neurosurgeons are more sensitive to neurological issues.
I have just seen a manager She recommends Lumbar radiofrecance Hot needles in lumbar region To kill the.nerves Next week I ho for it Private hospital In Almeria Spain Any answers .please. Bit worried Mc
Hello doctor . I'm 27y . I have central disc protrusion at l4-l5 causing sever spinal stenosis with lateral reccess and formanial stenosis plus ligamentum hypertrophy . the disc is degenerative but the height is not very reduced . I will see a neuro doctor this week . I love to know your opinion on that . If he would order discetomy only, will that be enough ! or I will need discetomy plus laminectomy plus ligamentum flavum resection !
Microdiscectomy has a really bad track record for central disc herniations causing stenosis, in particular in young people. Laminectomy may be a better approach, depending on your symptoms. If you can I would always get a second opinion in this type of situation.
@@BestPracticeHealth I went to neurosurgeon/spine today . He told me don't rush to surgery because u still young and the disc may resorb after a period of time and prescribed me 3 drugs ( gabapentin + muscle relaxer + NSAID ) ... I need ur opinion on that !
The only thing about fusions are that they sometimes fail. I had my wrist fused in a Sauve-Kapandji procedure and it never really fully fused. Now the screw that was put in to stabilize it is moving all over the place. I think the older we get, the less likely fusion will properly set. I agree that he doesn't have time to waste. I hope by this time he has already had the fusion and life is better for him now.
That’s an excellent point. In the spine, the risk of bony Union, not occurring is low, but it certainly a true risk. The risk factors for nonunion are poor nutrition, smoking, inadequate fixation, and generally poor health.
I take supplements, so I know it's not poor nutrition. I also take bisphosphonates because I have osteopenia and the hand surgeon felt I had osteoporosis in my wrist and forearm. I have never smoked. The fixation was good and remained good for even the 3-month follow up. Unfortunately the fusion was only 65% complete on that visit. The only other risk factor would be my age but that's kind of on par with the osteoporosis. Lol Just had an MRI of my low back and problems a plenty!! Annular tear and disc dessication are the two that worry me. I have an appointment with a neurologist, so I'm hoping I can arrest further problems. My fear is that incontinence will strike long before death from stenosis. Life would get seriously restricted if that happens. @@BestPracticeHealth
I am in Spain and waiting 2 1/2 years for a cortisone injection and now such excruciating pain I cannot walk more than 50 feet. Health system broken and can’t get any answer from my doctor just a shoulder shrug. They are waiting for people to die so they don’t have to do anything. I have worked ALL my life and now wait for God to put my out if misery
I am now 62 years old were told I needed surgery after a accident after 7 yrs. of chronic pain nothing has gotten better for me in need of a doctor will consider my diagnosis to tell me the only way to getting better that the surgery would be best need help with a doctor future on line GOD HELP ME
I’d like to hear more about your tremors. I’m an RN (disabled/retired) with numerous back surgeries, and had to finally stop working because of essential tremor. Please tell me there’s something that will help!
@@ritastutler1470 I’m sorry to say, no. I now have a spinal cord stimulator which helps with some of the pain. You might look into that. I wish you the best, Rita.
Oh, we are in the same boat! The first line treatment for essential tremor is propranolol. Are you one that? Once medical management fails then deep brain stimulation is highly effective but does require surgery.
@@BestPracticeHealth I was started on metoprolol, then switched to propranolol. I couldn’t tolerate it, so I’m back on metoprolol. It helps a little, but the tremors, unfortunately, are winning.
I am the same way my spinal cord in c spine is being flattened. My lower back nerve is severely pinched. I also have a sprinx on my throax spine that needs a new MRI on. My dr never told me I even had a sprinx on my spinal cord until now because I found out there was suppose to be a repeat MRI 1 year later that was in 2021 dr is just doing it now just hope the sprinx hasn't grown and is pushing on my spinal cord.
I’m so glad you’re getting the follow up MRI. A searings is a fluid filled cavity in the spinal cord. It may be a dilation of the central canal when the flow of CSF is altered, either by your anatomy, or after an accident, or due to stenosis. There’s also a disease called Sereno, my Aliyah. It’s very rare, but in that condition, the searing progresses on its own. It must be followed carefully as sometimes the searings needs to be shunted to protect your spinal cord. Good luck and hang in there. it’s critical that you follow up diligently with these conditions.
I'm with you brother. I can't walk for more than 20 steps, and that's with steroids. I freaked out the first time it felt like it was right up at the surface. I put an ice pack ,on it and it burned! And I'm up all night peeing. I was just at the ER for the pain and urination they told her that the peeing of from something else (uti or prostate) l had told them several times that I saw a urologists and ruled that out. Ugh! Frustrating!
Look up the 10 symptoms of Cauda Equina Syndrome. You have several of the red flags. It’s critical to get help fast. It happened to me and the ER kept sending me home. I was unable to move. I had L-5 disc ruptured into my spinal cord and paralyzed me. See a neurosurgeon
I feel you,,I am worn out from severe stenosis, degeneration, facet problems, bulging discs, a tear in my disc…I had spinal fusion in l four and five…Now my three is horrible and so is five. I don’t want surgery anymore. It did not help my pain at all..
@@BestPracticeHealth thank you I will see my doctor and see if that is an option for me. I was walking three miles a day, push mowing, help take care of five acres and in the last few months I have been in horrible pain with spasms. Thank you…so nice to get an answer.
Are we talking about severe stenosis as in the central ones being the dangerous ones? I ask because this is what I had on my MRI “grade 1 anterior spondylolisthesis of L4 on L5 leading to moderate to severe stenosis of bilateral neural foramina. There is evidence of bilateral spondylolysis of the pars interarticulares of L4. No significant central canal stenosis noted.” I get flare ups a bit of tingling on left foot when I do weightlifting and low back is never feeling “normal” and often hurts locally on the joint area (almost always). Sometimes I can’t bend forward during flare ups.
Central and foraminal stenosis are both types of spinal stenosis, but they affect different parts of the spinal column and can lead to different symptoms. Understanding the distinctions between them is important for diagnosis and treatment. Central stenosis refers to the narrowing of the central spinal canal, which is the main pathway that runs vertically down the spine and houses the spinal cord and cauda equina (a bundle of nerve roots that extend from the spinal cord). Spondylolisthesis is often associated with central stenosis. Symptoms of central stenosis often include pain, weakness, or numbness in the legs or torso, and in severe cases, it can affect bowel and bladder function or lead to significant neurological deficits due to compression of the spinal cord. Foraminal stenosis, also known as lateral stenosis, involves the narrowing of the foramina, which are the openings on either side of the vertebrae through which nerve roots exit the spinal column and extend to other parts of the body. The symptoms of foraminal stenosis are usually more localized than those of central stenosis, affecting the area that the pinched nerve serves. This can result in radicular pain (sharp, shooting pain along the nerve pathway), numbness, or weakness in the limbs. The specific symptoms depend on which nerve is affected and at what level of the spine. Understanding these differences is crucial for targeting treatment effectively. Treatments may include physical therapy, medications, injections for pain relief, or surgical interventions aimed at decompressing the affected area of the spine. Each type of stenosis may require different strategies depending on the severity and location of the narrowing.
@@BestPracticeHealth thank you for replying. So it seems to me that it’s not the dangerous kind in terms of life threatening that you mention in your videos.
Doctor, I would love your help if you can get back to me. I'm going through what this gentleman is talking about right now. I would be glad to even send you a disk of my MRI..
I am going through what this gentleman on the video is going through. I got my problems from the Australian Army and I haven’t yet heard anyone else mirror my pain and circumstances of its most acute chronic incidence. I have also tried about everything other than surgery, even though it has become obvious to me that there is really no other options. I have been marked as TPI (Totally and Permanently Incapacitated) by our veterans’ department. My neurosurgeon has my confidence and I want an end to the 7 years of chronic severe pain. 38 years in the military hasn’t made me any smarter when deciding on treatment. Just wanted to extend a shout out to my fellow sufferer from across the sea. Cheers mate.
Dr. Chester Donnelly in Dallas. TX. He's your man. Check him out! That's who I will go to if I go forward. 48 yr F - Severe stenosis in L4 L5, L5S1 here and spondylolisthesis. I have incontinence. I have a tight deep core and I cannot stop urine flow. Crazy. Well, interesting video. I have figured out some things that are helping my pain. Like dramatically. I don't know how long my fortunate situation will continue, but it makes me all the more grateful after seeking the agony this gentleman is in. I am praying for you, brother 🙏 💙
No one knows how bad it can get until it happens to them. Went from walking 50/60 minutes a day to pain all down my leg then one week latter early morning. Lighting. Hot lava feeling shoot down my leg into foot. It went numb immediately went to ER. MRI shows sciatic nerve cut off by L4-5 I can only walk with walker. A few steps with cane. I have to wait 2 more months for surgery. This started 3 months ago. My prayers are everyone dealing with this will be healed by God and a good surgeon. Prayers
Not gonna lie, this now has me scared to death!! I guess it's time to take a hard look at how this is going to end and when. My body and all its weird quirks combined with PTSD makes surgery nit an option for me. Why do our doctors not tell us how serious these conditions are? You have this....deal with it, take this, have this procedure??!!
me personally? No. I don’t have mechanical back pain to any significant degree coming from the Fissette joints, so I’m not a candidate. This video is about spinal stenosis. That means narrowing of the spinal canal. That can be caused by overgrown, facet joints, but it’s really a different problem. Does that make sense?
I'm getting ready to get the spinal stimulator and praying this works. I can't stand for 2 minutes or walk for a minute before the pain and numbness shoot from the middle of my spine down both legs. Then I can't feel my legs anymore and have to sit down or else fall down.
I’ve had a multilevel spinal fusion at L4-L5, L5-S1. I also suffer chronic tailbone pain and PNE. Fusion was about 2 years ago. I’ve have numerous Injections and RFAs. I also have DDD, thoracic subluxations and arthritis in my spine. I’m losing ground. Mainly the fusion is failed. It resolved the sciatica but that’s about all. I feel like a line is being cut through me from hip to hip at the fusion level. This plus the rapid fatiguing, cramping and spasms are the worse. Combined with the PNE I can’t sit and I can’t stand. I’m in bed on my shoulders so much I can’t use them any longer. Where do I go next? Surgeons don’t seem to face their failures very well. You are seemingly cast aside for new work. How do I manage this? Would could have gone wrong at the fusion? Thank you!
It sounds like you have shoulder, low back and knee issues. You need a doctor who can quarterback your care. Often that is best done by a Physiatrist who specializes in pain management.
Dr., At the 5:50 mark you asked him if he was having problems with sexual functions and he said " it's not the same" ( I'm assuming he meant it's not the same as before) and you said "that's good"( which I assume you thought he said "it's about the same"). ? Did I hear him wrong. I have noticed this myself, which is why I ask.
I am 57years old man. I have back pain but now I cannot walk always lying on bed. I can't poo now and I urinate frequently. I went through test it was shown my PSA is above 100. Please I need help so that I can use my legs again, pee and poo normal again.
PSA stands for prostate specific antigen. The PSA level and the blood is our best current screening test for the presence of prostate cancer. A PSA level above 2.5 is generally considered abnormal, and a PSA level of 100 is well above the potentially normal level. As the prostate enlarges in the presence of cancer it often kinks off the ureter, resulting in urinary retention. That's why men with prostate cancer often have urinary frequency. It's hard to get all of the urine out. While back problems certainly can cause urinary retentions as well, with a PSA level of 100, it's important to make sure your prostate is evaluated. This typically starts with a primary care medical doctor. Your doctor will perform a rectal examination. Imaging is usually next. Your primary care doctor will likely refer you to a Urologist who specializes in prostate disease for additional evaluation and treatment. If prostate cancer is identified by imaging then prostatectomy surgery or radiation therapy is the next step.
The V A is a learning center use your Medicare care get to NYC hospital special surgery 🙏 my dad had heart attacks he was 69 years old took him to NYC hospital he was veteran ww2 bronze star purple heart oak leaf Custer
Yes, I will be 64 this month. When I was eligible for part B, I didn't sign up because I had the VA. There is a 10% penalty for each year I could have been on part B. At 65, I can sign up for part B without a penalty, a one time waving of penalty. I will definitely sign up for part B then. Had I known the issues not signing up, I would definitely sign up immediately when I was eligible. Live and learn!
@Truth always Think about it only 1 percent Of the population serves the military. Where do you think you would have better doctors? The doctors are medicare. Do. more people. A lot of good doctors in New York. City but call the doctor some of them do not take Medicare anymore they don't get paid enough
I'm sorry to hear about your Dad's heart attack, please thank him for his service for me. The NY Hospital for Special Surgery is well know in orthopedic circles and seems to have a treasure trove of great doctors.
This infuriates me. These doctors that cannot, or just won’t, recognize when it’s no longer about physical therapy or epidural treatment. This man was put through unnecessary pain for way too long. They know none of those treatments change the anatomy causing the symptoms, yet they will beat a dead horse repeatedly. Absolute madness and shameful. At least this doctor recognizes this patient is, and has been, a surgical candidate ! !
This is good and bad about internet. It gives you info to educate and yourself, and meantime it scares the weak hearts. HUMAN BODY HEALS by itself unless it's trauma when your body has no time or not enough time to respond. You must try naturally to help your body instead of succumbing to surgery.
I hear what you are saying, but I don't really agree. Would you apply that logic to other diseases? "I'll wait and see if the pneumonia kills me before taking antibiotics?" Spinal stenosis is progressive. It only gets worse. We know from studies that failure to treat leads to an increased risk of death. Deferring needed treatment is dangerous, not natural.
Cauda equina syndrome typically comes on suddenly with a giant disc herniation or injury in the lumbar spine. Stenosis is tricky because it happens so slowly. Glacially.
@@BestPracticeHealth Not in all cases. I posted about Cauda Equina Syndrome because it happened to me and I didn’t know the symptoms. I had excruciating pain in my lower back, and my right leg kept collapsing when I was walking making me fall. I finally got an MRI that showed a large herniated disc at L-5. I was in so much pain I couldn’t move. This went on for months. I did have numbness in my saddle area and told the doctor but I still didn’t get help I needed. I finally fell and was paralyzed from the waist down. The impact from the last fall caused the disc pulp to rupture into my spinal column completely cutting off all signal. I had red flags that were ignored. I also didn’t know what the flags were. If the compression isn’t relieved within 24 hours it can be permanent. FYI
You got the former neurosurgeon part right. What led you to believe I'm pushing multi-level fusions? I spent my whole neurosurgical career trying to avoid fusion when absolutely needed.
Interesting reaction. Thanks for sharing it. I'm actually very committed to disseminating information that leads to best practices. I believe that evidence based care is our strongest tool to relieve pain and suffering. And most of all, I would certainly never want to engage in scare tactics. So, help me understand. If something is dangerous, and people are being harmed by inaction, and there is a lot of misinformation, what do you feel would be right way to inform the public?
You are such a great teacher!!! You really care about people and their lives!
Thanks! I have very similar symptoms and in fact had s1/L5 fusion 17 years ago…
Thank you, doctor, and thank you to the gentleman who allowed this interview to be broadcast. It answered some questions that I have had and now I know how to better talk with my neurosurgeon. I had L4-5 spinal fusion and a laminectomy in Dec. 2017, which restored my ability to walk without total neuropathy from the waist down! I worked at a school and was going to wait six months until summer, but he said my back would not have lasted until then!
Thank you for the comment! I could not agree more about the patient. I really admire the courage people have in putting themselves out there in the hope it will help others. I'm so glad it did!
Thank you for your service, I hope the best to you, God is in charge of your situation..Blessings🕊️🙏🏻
I appreciate that
I'm a 63 years old female now suffering with a failed laminectomy fusion along with degenerative disc disease, facet arthritis, and spinal stenosis above my L4-L5-S1 fusion. I have radiating pain down both my legs with numbness on the tops of my feet and toes. 18:58 My mobility isn't good and walking around makes the pain much worse. I have no quality of life wishing it would end because of bad medical treatment.
Sorry to hear that. Is there anything we can do?
My heart goes out to you im at that cross road but have deceided fusion is not the route for me..why do it? I have not seen one person with a fusion that has benefited. Rods and screws not for me.
Ask your doctor about prolotherapy (basically sugar water) shots that are injected into the joints to irritate the ligaments so they become stronger. Unlike steroid injections, they don't disintegrate the bone. They have worked wonders for me (in controlling my sciatica, lumbar, and shoulder pain) for over 4 years. They are still considered experimental (so I have to pay out of pocket), but my Dr says there is plenty of evidence for them.
@@carolmartin3028 I'm in the same boat, I have weakness in my lower extremities and no one even believes me. Family members think I am faking it. I have weakness in my legs and in both of my feet. I can flex my feet but walking for a long distance is another story. I have difficulty doing chores around the house and spend most of the time online reading and watching television. Not a great life. I don't want to have surgery bc I know people who have had failed back surgeries.
I have the same exact problem to the T. Except mine is messing with my bowels and badder. From the same fusion. They want to put a stimulator which requires them running wires hooked up to my spine. I to just want to give up. My life isn't fun or exciting but pain, discomfort and making my mental state even worse. 😮💨
I hope my insurance company sees this video. I was scheduled for surgery last November, however two days before the surgery, they denied it. They said I didn't need it and to do physical therapy. I've tried that in the past and didn't work. Since then I just told myself I'd have to deal with it. It's gotten a lot worse with numbing in my foot and more pain in my legs. I can't do anything like I used to therefore without the life I used to have.
Live your life ,surgery will make it so much worse it destroyed me i was having extreme pain when bending over and my feet were getting numb but after a weekend of rest i was fine ,but at work it fired up again the doctor said it would be better after the surgery ,well its gotten worse and coming back and dont ask for medicine, the doctors own it i guess and its all theirs and no one else's
No, you both need to be seen. Remember what this doctor is telling everyone. It will only get worse. I hope the best for both of you.
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@@mikeduncan2353 I had to have two micro discectomies at the same time on a moderate and severe herniated discs. My surgeon said therapy wouldn't help. Woke up feeling 100%! Was walking down the hospital corridor that evening. Next day I went home. Wore a back brace for 6 weeks. That was 22 years ago when I was 40. I had no choice because I couldn't even work. Not sure what procedure you had or why it didn't work. Maybe you need a revision.
Not take away from this man's experience. Bit after the FM Ablations steroid shots and countless adjustments. After 4 years of this crap I googled suicide and spinal stenosis and ended up here. It's not even the constant groin pain or thigh pain ,the throbbing in my knees and feet.... constantly feeling like I have shin splints. It's everything else. I've developed sever tendinitis is my right elbow from falling over trying to get dressed I'm now missing half my teeth from my hips giving out while using stairs. My family hates me because I feel like it takes every breath I have to deal with pain. And I just keep getting blown off by doctors (God bless covid) I have no clue what to do at this point.
I'm 62 years old and in good health outside of arthritis and spinal stenosis diagnosed in 2019 and was told I would need a fusion. This was through the VA and they didn't really do a thorough explanation and we decided to go the conservative route with physical therapy and chiropractic. My x-rays at the time mentioned that there was crowding at the cauda equina. I had never heard of that and look that up and was alarmed to see that that's a serious situation. When I questioned my doctor he said that I didn't have the syndrome because I wasn't having any bowel issues even though I was telling him about having more urgency in my system. Since that time I got two other opinions. We're confirming the same thing of spinal stenosis throughout the spine. I have spondylolisthesis at levels 4, 5 and S1. And a scoliosis at level 2 & 3. One doctor said that I needed surgery in those areas but he also saw some things in the cervical and gave me a brace to wear while driving. They instructed me to get the lumbar issues taking care of first. I then went and saw a third doctor a renowned sports Doctor surgeon that looked at the same things and recommended a laminotomy and wasn't so sure on the fusion because he wanted to see x-rays to see the movement which they do show movement. I took this information back to the VA and they did more x-rays etc and then determine that I needed to be referred out to a specialist because my situation is more complex. Since 2019 I have been complaining about not being able to walk and although overall leg syndromes that everyone else experiences with this situation. So now I'm over at the Scripps program and the doctor I'm assigned to looked over everything and determined that yes I need multi-level surgery well where they will go through the front and the back and maybe decide to do the surgery. noticing Auto daddy also noticed that I have severe arthritis in the left hip as well as arthritis in the right so he referred me to a orthopedic surgeon first to address my hip before he's considering doing surgery. So apparently I'm going to be getting a hip replacement before I have the back surgery. I look like I'm in fairly decent shape and athletic but I could barely walk a mile every day and all of the other symptoms so I was looking for relief and actually ready to do the surgery and then the guy recommended that I think the Doctor is recommending the right thing but I just don't really know that because I'm not the expert. I know I've had some issues that I get concerned with as far as the bowels but right now they are not concerned about that and I know that I've only gotten worse over the last 3 years and listening to all these videos I'm only going to get worse so I'm following the protocol but I don't know if I'm doing the right thing but again I don't want to shorten my life cuz I do have severe stenosis and degenerative this disease and the scoliosis. The sports doctor had the most conservative recommendation with the laminectomy but the most recent surgeon is suggesting the 3 level surgery. The second doctor I saw again was more concerned with cervical issues that he sees
With worsening bladder function your severe spinal stenosis is the most pressing issue. That needs to be dealt with before the hip. The VA can be clumsy but they have excellent people if you can get to the right ones. What you need is a spine surgeon who specializes in deformity.
The VA is screwing Thousands of us totally ! Pray for you Brother ! 🙏🏼♥️🇺🇸👍🏼✌🏼🥺
Try Dr.Duek out in florida for and opinion, he also has a lot of videos on youtube
@@BestPracticeHealth The doctor I saw at Scripps was Dr. Uhciyama the division head of neurosurgery. He's the one that recommended the hip which I finally got done August 28th. The hip was now at avascular necrosis stage 🤷🏿♂️. Again the VA dragged out this process
I'm under 40 with spinal stenosis in the L4-L5 area. I usually have a high threshold for pain, but this pain is almost unbearable. The pain often goes down my legs. Sometimes I will get what I can only describe as a catch in my lower back that will take me off my feet if I don't have something to hold on to. I have been put on Cymbalta for the nerve pain. I've had an epidural that didn't last a week. I've not had the bathroom issues yet. There are days I feel like my testicles are put in a vice grip. Some days I have pain that shoots from my groin to my knee, first on one leg then the other. That makes it very difficult to get up and walk it off like I do with calf muscle cramps.
I saw a neurosurgeon earlier this year who diagnosed me with Stenosis and told me that it was moderate. There is not a day that goes by that I'm not in pain.
Same
I love how you are with people!!!
Awh! Thanks so much. I really appreciate your comment.
Blessings for all the help you give!@@BestPracticeHealth
I have degenerative disk disease, spinal stenosis, osteoarthritis. Had sciatica down my left leg. Doctors tried discetomy, laminectomy and finally did a spinal fusion L4 L5, L5 S1 in Nov. 2011. All came back in 2019. I was put through physical therapy, had nerve tests done. They tried different meds on me for pain. My Orthopedic surgeon told me there was nothing more he could do. My spine is too unstable for more surgery. Not to look for another doctor. They would do surgery just for the money. Not to ask for medical records to be forwarded to a new doctor. He scared me and made me believe there's nothing left to be done. I asked for my medical records a month ago and this same surgeon basically lied about what he told me. Said my MRI showed spinal stenosis of L3 L4. I just had a lumbar epidural steroid injection on Nov. 15th. On the questionnaire it asks if you've had changes in bowl or urinary habits. I said no because I keep thinking my urgent need sometimes to urinate is due to age. I'm 65. After watching this video now I don't know. The pain doctor just took my word on an MRI that was made in 2019 and hasn't seen a new one of me yet. I see him Dec.1st to be checked up after the injection and see how it's working. I'm going to tell him about my urgent need to urinate sometimes. It's very sudden and sometimes I can't hold it until I reach the bathroom. I just started feeling this issue come on with bowel movements. Now I'm worried. I'm going to update the pain doctor and let him know what's going on. Before the injection I had about 15 to 30 minutes to be up walking until spasms in my back force me to stop. Great video.
My Doctor told me surgery wouldn't help. He referd me to pain management and physical therapy that said they couldn't help me, then I went to a back specialist who wants me to get a shot around my spinal canal, all out of pocket because my insurance left when my job did. Now there is pain all through my spine, numbness, a shooting pain from back to toes, bathroom issues. Nobody wants to help me. Thank you Dr for the video. I now know that I'm in the home stretch being at UTI issues. God bless you
I'm so sorry to hear that you are suffering. Hang in there. One more back injection for chronic back pain sounds like the wrong approach.
Great information, I wish I could get a consultation with you!
Thanks for the comment! Unfortunately, I can't see you or anybody else, as I Developed essential tremor which has taken me out of the practice of medicine. I figured the best way I can help people at this point is by helping them find their way to the best doctor for them. What's going on with you? Have you seen a doctor? Surgeon? Let me know.
@@BestPracticeHealth Thanks, and yes, I have seen multiple doctors, had EMG, CT, MRI's but no solutions yet for loss of movement in left foot/toes. I'm hoping for a spinal surgical solution soon.
@@BestPracticeHealthI’m so sorry. That had to have been - and likely still is - such a difficult loss for you. Your empathy and compassion for others is unique and so appreciated. Thank you for choosing to continue to help others by sharing your expertise!
Why are you saying its fatal in description?? Omg you've frightened the life out of me!!
I have severe spinal stenosis. I have a narrower than normal spinal canal. I had a Laminectomy 3 1/2 years ago for L4 & L5. It helped for maybe 2 years or less and I was able to walk and get my life back. Now at 73 I have severe spinal stenosis in L1-L5. My Sports Medicine & Pain Clinic doctors have told me they wouldn’t even know where to start. So they said no surgery; it will get worse with age. I take 1800mg of Gabapentin a day plus 2 anti-depressants. I’m told not to walk unless I have to and same with standing. I’ve been having bladder & bowel problems for about a year now. It’s getting worse. I have accidents from both but not always. I mostly stay home now; I had to move in with my son and family. In your opinion do you feel I might have any options?
Get a second opinion from another surgeon.
Another great video. I really learned a lot. Dr Lieberman is the bomb. Please continue with the interviews. I have to request a copy of mine.
Will do! Thanks for commenting, Cindy.
I have spinal stenosis have rods screws fusion lumbar L4 L5. Surgery done Jan 22 amazing team in Wyoming. Going for Mylar next month. Have alot of pain below lumbar tailbone, bathroom issues. They want to do injections in my cervical . I'm 68, first surgery was 10 hrs. Made a difference in lumbar, but the rest of me is going cervical and daily. Thanks for video. Prayers for anyone having issues. Now for pain Meloxicam helps some, muscle relaxer some but white pain is so severe I use pot, one hit 10 mins later no pain, pressure still there. Drs won't give pain meds anymore. So you self medicate.
Hi, Sharon. Thank you so much for your comment period and for sharing your story. It sounds like you've been through a great deal with your spine.
While I cannot comment on the spinal condition given the information presented, I do want to recommend you think about substituting CBD for THC. Some people get the same pain relief, as well as help with anxiety, from CBD. But without all of the psychoactive side effects and potential for addiction.
I guess I’m not a surgical candidate bc of multi level thoracic and lumbar stenosis and FBSS. I have a pump and SCS
Is there an age limit for stenosis surgery?
In Ca. Orthos do a lot of spine. Last one left me in intense pain and could barely walk. Neurosurgeon bailed me out. Still limp but short hikes are ok. No pain but pins & needles and one numb foot. L5/S1 and a lot of narrowing 6 years later. Time for another Neuro.
Uh oh! Hang in there! You've got this!
Yup. After having an MRI and seeing that L5 and S1 were bone on bone from end stage stenosis, I was told I needed surgery. I was glad that I had it.
What kind of surgery did u have ?
@@ritastutler1470 Anterior and Posterior Lumbar Fusion.
@@tmreed I am so happy it worked for u. I liked my surgeon. He was honest and told me it woukd probably not help with pain.. I have arthritis. The thing is my fusion made my above and below worse.
Thanks for the comment!
You are such an amazing Specialist. I need surgery but l'm so scared and l am under 50 years old and l was super fit my whole life and now l can't work or anything. You have responded to me and l am so thankful to you so much. I live with severe chronic pain 24/7. l'm scared as it's in my whole spine. :(
Ah, thanks! Tell me more about the surgery... what was recommended and why?
I am scared myself
@@BestPracticeHealth Every time l go for follow up appointment - It's a different Training Neurosurgeon Specialist which l find ridiculous as they are not getting to know me or what is happening to my body. Without pain medication l can hardly walk and sleeping is hell pain in my whole spine. I have been informed by them that l need surgery (they didn't say what type of surgery I will ask in my next appointment) on my spine in neck area as it's Severe Left C6/7 foraminal Spinal Stenosis irritating the left C7 nerve root and also moderate foraminal stenosis at the left c4/5 and bilateral C5/6 levels. Also, something is happening in the middle of my spine now and in lower spine. So, they are sending me to have another MRI on my whole spine to see what is happening. I am an ongoing outpatient with my hospital pain clinic. I was first diagnosed in 2019 and l am deteriorating. I'm scared as l can seriously feel my body is going paralyzed on me. :(
@@jcaleca60 Keep strong beautiful. Yes, it is scary. Hope you are having a nice day and not in too much pain.
Hi I am so sorry that you are so young and have all of this..mine started at fifty seven..hiked , walked a lot , ate well..and after my spinal fusion it still hurt now I have lots of bad back diagnoses…severe stenosis, bulging disc, tear in disc, degenerative disease, facet joint arthritis, blah , blah m blah,.wish you the best. Find something you like to distract you..try meditation. I tried pottery last night with the bag stuff..not great but a hour of distraction. I take Tramadol to take the edge off. My l3 to S1 affected…could be upper but mri did lower. I pray you get better.
Thank you both for sharing. Such great info on choosing a surgeon. Wish that I could pick my own surgeon but Workers Comp picks the DR's.
What state are you in? And most states injured workers have the right to choose their own doctors. Here in Arizona, that’s true unless your company is self insured.
@@BestPracticeHealth I am in Georgia. Already had to use my one "change of doctor" I think I am finally seeing the right doctor but we will see. Just had to get updated MRI and Xrays. Fingers crossed
What about Disk replacements ??
I have had two lumbar fusions on L4-L5. That have both failed. I can barely walk. I can’t participate in familial activities. I go to Dr appts with a Walker, sometimes a wheelchair. I have neuropathy so bad that it’s ridiculous. I am going to see a neurologist in September ( earliest I could get an appointment ). I am seeing the orthopedic surgeon on Thursday 6/22/23 for a check up. He will not see me again after this because I don’t get any relief from seeing him. I wish I never had the two fusions. I had the second one because he said the screws came loose from the first time. Why I’m still in this kind of pain…could the screws have come loose again? Wth??!! Well, at least I got that off my chest. Thank you for reading this.
My heart is really heavy for you, Alan. I'm so sorry you are suffering, and going through this. Hang in there. I wish you the best.
@@BestPracticeHealth Thank you.
I live in Greenville S.C. who would you recommend me to see ? Please help.....
.😢
How I get a transcript of what he said?
I was diagnosed lumbar spinal stenosis (had MRI for accident) 10 years ago and still have no pain or suffering ? I do work out 5 days a week and do squats and dead lifts, although I don't do any personal best lifts. Working out and core exercises must be the the key to fighting it off ? I'm 55.
This is the key and 100% the best way but unfortunately after 3 years I keep slipping at L5 and the pain and complications are horrific. Phisio 100% helped but unfortunately that area is bloody complicated.
Yes it definitely is dangerous caused me to have blood clots in my legs after major back fusion long fusion on my third stint in my growing.😢
Hang in there. Scary.
How many mcg or mg of CBD takes away SI joint pain? I can barely walk after my twice per week PT for L4 THRU SI Grade 1 anterolitheis
The effective dose of CBD really depends on the individual. And truthfully, sadly, it may never work for you. You just have to try it. I really recommend you find a knowledgeable person to help you choose the preparation, route, and hopefully reliable supply. Good luck. Please let me know how it turns out.
Mine became life threatening in my neck…posterior laminectomy and fusion in my neck. It was during the pandemic and the exposed me to Covid. I didn’t get Covid…I also did not receive proper after care as they isolated me without having Covid for a month.
I’m a person that loves natural healing. I’m a Reiki Teacher and an interfaith minister. I’m not one to get down. I’m very depressed lately and the chronic pain and pain medications I wish I wasn’t needing to use them. I need more surgery and my neck…some days it’s sad to say I wished I just let myself transition. That causes more sadness. I am unable to care for my home and family as I use to. I’m very old fashioned and kept my home very clean. I haven’t been able to do much and when I do it’s not enough. I miss my kids. They have grown so much in the last three years. Two of those years I lived in a reclining chair for two years and had a lot of difficulty walking. I just pour my coffee on myself without warning at times. I can cut my own food now…I could for over 2 years. I walked 16km a day and now I’m stuck at home all of the time unless it’s to the doctor. Most of my appts are by phone. I cannot use the a walker around the home. I can relate to the urination and #2 just as this gentleman as well. I cannot handle it. I keep holding on for my family. I hope I can come and put something positive here soon.
It’s not uncommon to have severe neck pain due to progressive instability, following cervical laminectomy. Only a flexion and extension x-ray with demonstrate the problem. It’s unbelievably painful, and could be causing the symptoms your describing. I would advise that you have your doctor do flexion and extension x-rays if not already done. Also, are you under the care of a good surgeon? You really need to be. It’s not normal to be having this much pain this far after surgery.
I have spinal stenosis laminectomy and coflex I am 67 years old going to hospital special surgery
Great hospital! How is your treatment gong? I'd love to hear about your Coflex... did it help?
I'm having the exact same symptoms as he is , I was told my bowel and urine issues have nothing to do with my back. Should I find another Ortho doctor
Yes. There’s never a Harmon getting a second opinion when things like permanent nerve damage are in play. You might consider seeing a neurosurgeon this time, as you’ve already seen a Orthopedic Surgeon. In my opinion, the individual is more relevant than the kind of training, but as a general rule, neurosurgeons are more sensitive to neurological issues.
I have just seen a manager
She recommends
Lumbar radiofrecance
Hot needles in lumbar region
To kill the.nerves
Next week I ho for it
Private hospital
In Almeria
Spain
Any answers .please.
Bit worried
Mc
It's a great treatment for the right person. Check out my site bestpracticehealth.tv.
Hello doctor . I'm 27y . I have central disc protrusion at l4-l5 causing sever spinal stenosis with lateral reccess and formanial stenosis plus ligamentum hypertrophy . the disc is degenerative but the height is not very reduced . I will see a neuro doctor this week . I love to know your opinion on that . If he would order discetomy only, will that be enough ! or I will need discetomy plus laminectomy plus ligamentum flavum resection !
??
??
Microdiscectomy has a really bad track record for central disc herniations causing stenosis, in particular in young people. Laminectomy may be a better approach, depending on your symptoms. If you can I would always get a second opinion in this type of situation.
@@BestPracticeHealth Thank u
@@BestPracticeHealth I went to neurosurgeon/spine today . He told me don't rush to surgery because u still young and the disc may resorb after a period of time and prescribed me 3 drugs ( gabapentin + muscle relaxer + NSAID ) ... I need ur opinion on that !
The only thing about fusions are that they sometimes fail. I had my wrist fused in a Sauve-Kapandji procedure and it never really fully fused. Now the screw that was put in to stabilize it is moving all over the place. I think the older we get, the less likely fusion will properly set. I agree that he doesn't have time to waste. I hope by this time he has already had the fusion and life is better for him now.
That’s an excellent point. In the spine, the risk of bony Union, not occurring is low, but it certainly a true risk. The risk factors for nonunion are poor nutrition, smoking, inadequate fixation, and generally poor health.
I take supplements, so I know it's not poor nutrition. I also take bisphosphonates because I have osteopenia and the hand surgeon felt I had osteoporosis in my wrist and forearm. I have never smoked. The fixation was good and remained good for even the 3-month follow up. Unfortunately the fusion was only 65% complete on that visit. The only other risk factor would be my age but that's kind of on par with the osteoporosis. Lol Just had an MRI of my low back and problems a plenty!! Annular tear and disc dessication are the two that worry me. I have an appointment with a neurologist, so I'm hoping I can arrest further problems. My fear is that incontinence will strike long before death from stenosis. Life would get seriously restricted if that happens. @@BestPracticeHealth
I am in Spain and waiting 2 1/2 years for a cortisone injection and now such excruciating pain I cannot walk more than 50 feet. Health system broken and can’t get any answer from my doctor just a shoulder shrug. They are waiting for people to die so they don’t have to do anything. I have worked ALL my life and now wait for God to put my out if misery
I am now 62 years old were told I needed surgery after a accident after 7 yrs. of chronic pain nothing has gotten better for me in need of a doctor will consider my diagnosis to tell me the only way to getting better that the surgery would be best need help with a doctor future on line GOD HELP ME
Oh, no! You sound terrible. I hope you get the help you deserve right away. Everyone deserves help when they are sick or in pain.
I’d like to hear more about your tremors. I’m an RN (disabled/retired) with numerous back surgeries, and had to finally stop working because of essential tremor. Please tell me there’s something that will help!
Did surgery help you. I had spinal fusion…worse now.
@@ritastutler1470 I’m sorry to say, no. I now have a spinal cord stimulator which helps with some of the pain. You might look into that. I wish you the best, Rita.
Oh, we are in the same boat! The first line treatment for essential tremor is propranolol. Are you one that? Once medical management fails then deep brain stimulation is highly effective but does require surgery.
@@BestPracticeHealth I was started on metoprolol, then switched to propranolol. I couldn’t tolerate it, so I’m back on metoprolol. It helps a little, but the tremors, unfortunately, are winning.
I'd love to know this myself. In the beginning I thought I was having muscle spasms but now... .
I am the same way my spinal cord in c spine is being flattened. My lower back nerve is severely pinched. I also have a sprinx on my throax spine that needs a new MRI on. My dr never told me I even had a sprinx on my spinal cord until now because I found out there was suppose to be a repeat MRI 1 year later that was in 2021 dr is just doing it now just hope the sprinx hasn't grown and is pushing on my spinal cord.
I’m so glad you’re getting the follow up MRI. A searings is a fluid filled cavity in the spinal cord. It may be a dilation of the central canal when the flow of CSF is altered, either by your anatomy, or after an accident, or due to stenosis. There’s also a disease called Sereno, my Aliyah. It’s very rare, but in that condition, the searing progresses on its own. It must be followed carefully as sometimes the searings needs to be shunted to protect your spinal cord. Good luck and hang in there. it’s critical that you follow up diligently with these conditions.
I'm with you brother. I can't walk for more than 20 steps, and that's with steroids. I freaked out the first time it felt like it was right up at the surface. I put an ice pack ,on it and it burned! And I'm up all night peeing. I was just at the ER for the pain and urination they told her that the peeing of from something else (uti or prostate) l had told them several times that I saw a urologists and ruled that out. Ugh! Frustrating!
Have you seen a surgeon? It sounds like SOMETHING NEEDS TO BE DONE before its too late!
Look up the 10 symptoms of Cauda Equina Syndrome. You have several of the red flags. It’s critical to get help fast. It happened to me and the ER kept sending me home. I was unable to move. I had L-5 disc ruptured into my spinal cord and paralyzed me. See a neurosurgeon
I feel you,,I am worn out from severe stenosis, degeneration, facet problems, bulging discs, a tear in my disc…I had spinal fusion in l four and five…Now my three is horrible and so is five. I don’t want surgery anymore. It did not help my pain at all..
What about RFA? It won't help the stenosis but it may be able to relieve back pain if you have it from the facets.
@@BestPracticeHealth thank you I will see my doctor and see if that is an option for me. I was walking three miles a day, push mowing, help take care of five acres and in the last few months I have been in horrible pain with spasms. Thank you…so nice to get an answer.
Are we talking about severe stenosis as in the central ones being the dangerous ones? I ask because this is what I had on my MRI “grade 1 anterior spondylolisthesis of L4 on L5 leading to moderate to severe stenosis of bilateral neural foramina. There is evidence of bilateral spondylolysis of the pars interarticulares of L4. No significant central canal stenosis noted.” I get flare ups a bit of tingling on left foot when I do weightlifting and low back is never feeling “normal” and often hurts locally on the joint area (almost always). Sometimes I can’t bend forward during flare ups.
Central and foraminal stenosis are both types of spinal stenosis, but they affect different parts of the spinal column and can lead to different symptoms. Understanding the distinctions between them is important for diagnosis and treatment. Central stenosis refers to the narrowing of the central spinal canal, which is the main pathway that runs vertically down the spine and houses the spinal cord and cauda equina (a bundle of nerve roots that extend from the spinal cord). Spondylolisthesis is often associated with central stenosis. Symptoms of central stenosis often include pain, weakness, or numbness in the legs or torso, and in severe cases, it can affect bowel and bladder function or lead to significant neurological deficits due to compression of the spinal cord.
Foraminal stenosis, also known as lateral stenosis, involves the narrowing of the foramina, which are the openings on either side of the vertebrae through which nerve roots exit the spinal column and extend to other parts of the body. The symptoms of foraminal stenosis are usually more localized than those of central stenosis, affecting the area that the pinched nerve serves. This can result in radicular pain (sharp, shooting pain along the nerve pathway), numbness, or weakness in the limbs. The specific symptoms depend on which nerve is affected and at what level of the spine.
Understanding these differences is crucial for targeting treatment effectively. Treatments may include physical therapy, medications, injections for pain relief, or surgical interventions aimed at decompressing the affected area of the spine. Each type of stenosis may require different strategies depending on the severity and location of the narrowing.
@@BestPracticeHealth thank you for replying. So it seems to me that it’s not the dangerous kind in terms of life threatening that you mention in your videos.
Doctor, I would love your help if you can get back to me. I'm going through what this gentleman is talking about right now. I would be glad to even send you a disk of my MRI..
I am going through what this gentleman on the video is going through. I got my problems from the Australian Army and I haven’t yet heard anyone else mirror my pain and circumstances of its most acute chronic incidence. I have also tried about everything other than surgery, even though it has become obvious to me that there is really no other options. I have been marked as TPI (Totally and Permanently Incapacitated) by our veterans’ department. My neurosurgeon has my confidence and I want an end to the 7 years of chronic severe pain. 38 years in the military hasn’t made me any smarter when deciding on treatment. Just wanted to extend a shout out to my fellow sufferer from across the sea. Cheers mate.
Please come on the show! Call my assistant at 602 256 2525 to make the arrangements.
Dr. Chester Donnelly in Dallas. TX. He's your man. Check him out!
That's who I will go to if I go forward.
48 yr F - Severe stenosis in L4 L5, L5S1 here and spondylolisthesis. I have incontinence. I have a tight deep core and I cannot stop urine flow. Crazy. Well, interesting video. I have figured out some things that are helping my pain. Like dramatically. I don't know how long my fortunate situation will continue, but it makes me all the more grateful after seeking the agony this gentleman is in. I am praying for you, brother 🙏 💙
Thanks for your kind wishes and for the heartfelt recommendation.
No one knows how bad it can get until it happens to them. Went from walking 50/60 minutes a day to pain all down my leg then one week latter early morning. Lighting. Hot lava feeling shoot down my leg into foot. It went numb immediately went to ER. MRI shows sciatic nerve cut off by L4-5 I can only walk with walker. A few steps with cane. I have to wait 2 more months for surgery. This started 3 months ago. My prayers are everyone dealing with this will be healed by God and a good surgeon. Prayers
That is so true. I hope you feel better soon! Hand in there.
Not gonna lie, this now has me scared to death!! I guess it's time to take a hard look at how this is going to end and when. My body and all its weird quirks combined with PTSD makes surgery nit an option for me. Why do our doctors not tell us how serious these conditions are? You have this....deal with it, take this, have this procedure??!!
Sorry to scare you, but you've got this! The first step is to get fully informed. Then know when you need to act. Hang in there!
Have you tried RFA in your lower back?
me personally? No. I don’t have mechanical back pain to any significant degree coming from the Fissette joints, so I’m not a candidate. This video is about spinal stenosis. That means narrowing of the spinal canal. That can be caused by overgrown, facet joints, but it’s really a different problem. Does that make sense?
I'm getting ready to get the spinal stimulator and praying this works. I can't stand for 2 minutes or walk for a minute before the pain and numbness shoot from the middle of my spine down both legs. Then I can't feel my legs anymore and have to sit down or else fall down.
I'm cheering for you! The stimulator should work as well as the trial. You've got this. Let me know how you do.
Please follow-up. I'm very interested about the spinal stimulator. Good luck!!
Did the spinal cord stimulator help?
I’ve had a multilevel spinal fusion at L4-L5, L5-S1. I also suffer chronic tailbone pain and PNE.
Fusion was about 2 years ago. I’ve have numerous Injections and RFAs. I also have DDD, thoracic subluxations and arthritis in my spine. I’m losing ground. Mainly the fusion is failed. It resolved the sciatica but that’s about all. I feel like a line is being cut through me from hip to hip at the fusion level. This plus the rapid fatiguing, cramping and spasms are the worse. Combined with the PNE I can’t sit and I can’t stand. I’m in bed on my shoulders so much I can’t use them any longer. Where do I go next? Surgeons don’t seem to face their failures very well. You are seemingly cast aside for new work. How do I manage this? Would could have gone wrong at the fusion? Thank you!
It sounds like you have shoulder, low back and knee issues. You need a doctor who can quarterback your care. Often that is best done by a Physiatrist who specializes in pain management.
Dr., At the 5:50 mark you asked him if he was having problems with sexual functions and he said " it's not the same" ( I'm assuming he meant it's not the same as before) and you said "that's good"( which I assume you thought he said "it's about the same"). ? Did I hear him wrong. I have noticed this myself, which is why I ask.
I am 57years old man. I have back pain but now I cannot walk always lying on bed. I can't poo now and I urinate frequently. I went through test it was shown my PSA is above 100. Please I need help so that I can use my legs again, pee and poo normal again.
PSA stands for prostate specific antigen. The PSA level and the blood is our best current screening test for the presence of prostate cancer. A PSA level above 2.5 is generally considered abnormal, and a PSA level of 100 is well above the potentially normal level.
As the prostate enlarges in the presence of cancer it often kinks off the ureter, resulting in urinary retention. That's why men with prostate cancer often have urinary frequency. It's hard to get all of the urine out.
While back problems certainly can cause urinary retentions as well, with a PSA level of 100, it's important to make sure your prostate is evaluated. This typically starts with a primary care medical doctor. Your doctor will perform a rectal examination. Imaging is usually next. Your primary care doctor will likely refer you to a Urologist who specializes in prostate disease for additional evaluation and treatment. If prostate cancer is identified by imaging then prostatectomy surgery or radiation therapy is the next step.
This is me all the way
Sorry to hear that, but I hope you are taking care of it. Are you?
@BestPracticeHealth as of right now I am scheduled for a RFA Tuesday. But I would love to email you my MRI report to get your advice
The V A is a learning center use your Medicare care get to NYC hospital special surgery 🙏 my dad had heart attacks he was 69 years old took him to NYC hospital he was veteran ww2 bronze star purple heart oak leaf Custer
Yes, I will be 64 this month. When I was eligible for part B, I didn't sign up because I had the VA. There is a 10% penalty for each year I could have been on part B. At 65, I can sign up for part B without a penalty, a one time waving of penalty. I will definitely sign up for part B then. Had I known the issues not signing up, I would definitely sign up immediately when I was eligible. Live and learn!
@Truth always Think about it only 1 percent Of the population serves the military. Where do you think you would have better doctors? The doctors are medicare. Do. more people. A lot of good doctors in New York. City but call the doctor some of them do not take Medicare anymore they don't get paid enough
I'm sorry to hear about your Dad's heart attack, please thank him for his service for me. The NY Hospital for Special Surgery is well know in orthopedic circles and seems to have a treasure trove of great doctors.
@Best Practice Health My dad was on Guadalcanal bronze star purple heart oak leaf Custer I put his name on ww2 memorial Washington 💜
This infuriates me. These doctors that cannot, or just won’t, recognize when it’s no longer about physical therapy or epidural treatment. This man was put through unnecessary pain for way too long.
They know none of those treatments change the anatomy causing the symptoms, yet they will beat a dead horse repeatedly. Absolute madness and shameful.
At least this doctor recognizes this patient is, and has been, a surgical candidate ! !
😢
This is good and bad about internet. It gives you info to educate and yourself, and meantime it scares the weak hearts. HUMAN BODY HEALS by itself unless it's trauma when your body has no time or not enough time to respond. You must try naturally to help your body instead of succumbing to surgery.
I hear what you are saying, but I don't really agree. Would you apply that logic to other diseases? "I'll wait and see if the pneumonia kills me before taking antibiotics?" Spinal stenosis is progressive. It only gets worse. We know from studies that failure to treat leads to an increased risk of death. Deferring needed treatment is dangerous, not natural.
Cauda Equina Syndrome. Look up the 10 red flag warnings.
Cauda equina syndrome typically comes on suddenly with a giant disc herniation or injury in the lumbar spine. Stenosis is tricky because it happens so slowly. Glacially.
@@BestPracticeHealth Not in all cases. I posted about Cauda Equina Syndrome because it happened to me and I didn’t know the symptoms. I had excruciating pain in my lower back, and my right leg kept collapsing when I was walking making me fall. I finally got an MRI that showed a large herniated disc at L-5. I was in so much pain I couldn’t move. This went on for months. I did have numbness in my saddle area and told the doctor but I still didn’t get help I needed. I finally fell and was paralyzed from the waist down. The impact from the last fall caused the disc pulp to rupture into my spinal column completely cutting off all signal. I had red flags that were ignored. I also didn’t know what the flags were. If the compression isn’t relieved within 24 hours it can be permanent. FYI
I love it. A once Neuro surgeon pushing people to get multi-level fusions on a CZcams channel. Only in America
You got the former neurosurgeon part right. What led you to believe I'm pushing multi-level fusions? I spent my whole neurosurgical career trying to avoid fusion when absolutely needed.
I guess you didn't listen to the entire video very well.
Are you even a doctor
These scare tactics should not be allowed on CZcams.
Interesting reaction. Thanks for sharing it. I'm actually very committed to disseminating information that leads to best practices. I believe that evidence based care is our strongest tool to relieve pain and suffering. And most of all, I would certainly never want to engage in scare tactics. So, help me understand.
If something is dangerous, and people are being harmed by inaction, and there is a lot of misinformation, what do you feel would be right way to inform the public?
Learn to spell hazardous
Whoops. Fixed it. Thanks!