Leg Numbness After Back Surgery

Leg Numbness After Back Surgery

Leg Numbness After Back Surgery Depending on what type of back surgery you had, there are several different ways that you can cope with leg numbness.

These methods include applying a hot towel to the area and taking a pain medication. If you have a lumbar stenosis or a herniated disc, you might also want to use a steroid cream.

Disc herniation

Leg Numbness After Back Surgery Disc herniation is a condition that can lead to severe pain and weakness in the leg. It occurs when the jelly-like core of the spinal disc bulges through a weak area in the disc wall. The pain and weakness can be very disabling.

Symptoms can vary depending on where the herniated disc is located. Generally, pain and weakness in the leg are the most common signs. Other possible symptoms include numbness, tingling, and bowel or bladder function compromise. Depending on the severity of the herniation, surgery can be an option for relief.

The first line of treatment for a herniated disc is physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medication. It can take months to years for the pain and weakness to go away. However, the discomfort can linger for a few weeks to months after surgery.

In some cases, an infection may occur inside the disc. This can lead to a second operation, which involves draining the infection and putting antibiotics in the wound.

Lumbar spinal stenosis

Symptoms of spinal stenosis can be severe. Pain in the legs, numbness, weakness and loss of bladder control can occur. Depending on the severity, conservative treatments may be enough to improve the quality of life. However, surgical options are also available.

Leg Numbness After Back Surgery MRI and CT scans can be used to determine the type of stenosis and to identify its cause. A doctor will then develop a treatment plan. It is important to discuss any medications or supplements with your physician.

Some patients report numbness or weakness in the leg after back surgery. These symptoms can be permanent, or they can last for a year or more. If the symptoms persist, they could be a sign of permanent nerve damage.

A chiropractor can manipulate the spine and related bones to help relieve the pain. He or she will work with the patient to develop an exercise program that is individualized for the patient’s condition.

Leg Numbness After Back Surgery Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be prescribed to reduce inflammation. If the inflammation is severe, your doctor might prescribe steroid injections to reduce swelling. Other medicines that can be used to relieve the pain include amitriptyline and gabapentin.

Foraminal stenosis

Leg Numbness After Back Surgery Symptoms of spinal stenosis include leg numbness, pain while walking, sciatica, and a loss of bladder and bowel control. It is important to seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms. Fortunately, you can get relief from the pain and other symptoms of spinal stenosis with nonsurgical methods.

A physical therapist can develop a customized exercise plan that will relieve your symptoms. You should begin physical therapy as soon as possible. You should also avoid heavy lifting and twisting. This is especially important if you are in the thoracic region.

The length of your recovery after surgery will depend on how well you follow the physical therapist’s recommendations. Usually, you will be able to resume your normal activities within a couple of weeks. If you are in the lumbar region, you will probably be able to return to light activity in about four weeks.

Leg Numbness After Back Surgery In the case of foraminal stenosis, you may require spinal fusion. This surgery is performed through a small incision in your

Leg Numbness After Back Surgery

spine. The surgeon will remove a section of a thickened ligament, which will give you more space for your nerve roots. In some cases, the surgery requires general anesthesia.

Sciatica

Leg Numbness After Back Surgery During minimally invasive spine surgery, numbness in the leg is a common complication.

While some patients have relief after the procedure, others experience numbness that persists for months or even years. The numbness may be due to the effects of anaesthetic or pain-relieving drugs.

A micro discectomy is an operation that is performed under general anaesthetic. It involves the removal of a disc fragment that is pressing on the nerve root. The procedure usually lasts 30-60 minutes and is done using optical magnification. This procedure is typically performed as an emergency, if the patient experiences a major muscle weakness.

A disc injury can cause numbness in the leg or lower back. These symptoms can be caused by an extruded disc, a bulging disc, or a herniated disc.

The sciatic nerve runs down the back of the leg. This nerve is large and has extensive reach. If it becomes pinched, it can cause severe pain. It can also affect the muscles of the leg and foot.