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Femoral nerve damage after kidney transplant

Transplants | Last Active: Feb 17 6:24pm | Replies (6)

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@stephanierp

Hello,
I experienced femoral nerve damage in my left thigh after my kidney transplant, in the form of numbness, tingling, and weakness. For several years, I had to lift my left leg to get into cars, could not do stairs without substantial use of handrails, and was no longer able to demonstrate when teaching dance (I am a ballet, tap and jazz teacher). I also experienced multiple knee and ankle injuries, when my leg would just give out beneath me. Each injury set me back months.

I used a knee brace and ankle brace for many months, did some PT and determined weight-lifting to be the best exercise for my body to help develop leg strength. I am 4 years post-transplant and I believe the nerve has repaired a bit. I have some sensation on the front of my left thigh now, and the weight-lifting has helped me regain muscle strength. I feel strong again. I am still not able to demonstrate much ballet or jazz, but I am able to tap.

While every situation is different, the good news is, the body is regenerative and wants to heal - strength can be rebuilt, and nerves can repair. I think it is best to at least start with a physical therapist, when rebuilding. I hope something I shared is helpful.

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Replies to "Hello, I experienced femoral nerve damage in my left thigh after my kidney transplant, in the..."

Thank you for sharing your experience. I'm glad to hear the progress you have made. My damage is a super sensitive knee to upper thigh, and constant pain/ache in my pelvi area near the transplanted kidney. I have complained to all my drs. Have seen a neurologist with not much help. Never was offered PT or an EMG test. I too have a hard time with stairs up and down. I grip the rail for dear life. I have already fallen and broke my wrist 1 year after transplant due to lack of being able to raise my leg enough to clear a curb. I will persue the PT and other questions on repairing this nerve.