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Whats my future?

Neuropathy | Last Active: Jun 19 6:37am | Replies (71)

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@domiha

Seems we all may have similar symptoms to varying degrees, and some days are better than others. Up until 2021, I was leading what I considered a pretty average life of s retiree. The "sudden" appearance of this nerve-related issue has certainly changed all that. A couple of surgeries and a number of tests later, I finally saw a neurologist who said I likely don't have neuropathy.... but radiculopathy.... which basically means my numbness, tingling, burning and my balance issues is originating somewhere in my lower back rather than in the small fiber nerves of my feet. In the end, whatever name it's given, the symptoms are the same.... as are the limitations. I, too, have heard a number of times to "keep moving," and I am trying to do just that. The neurologist, by the way, had no treatment to offer that would definitely improve my "radiculoathy".... The spine surgeon has said, "Maybe a fusion at L-4/L-5/S-1 would help." Well, that "maybe" makes me hesitate to try anymore surgery at the moment. As with most everyone here, it seems we are feeling our way.... as are our doctors... in trying to find how to best adapt our situations to live as fully as possible with the limitations this situation has handed us. Some of you have intense pain, which is something that I, at the moment, don't have to deal with. Numbness and loss of balance are issues.... but pain would be even worse.... so I try to count my blessings. Yes, it would be so nice to be 35 again, with a body that is not feeling the effects of time.... but I know that's not going to happen. At this point, like so many of you here, I will continue to watch .... but I'm not holding my breath that there will be any "amazing" cure for my situation. And I will keep moving for as long as I can.... perhaps more slowly, but still moving. Best wishes to all!! Mike

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Replies to "Seems we all may have similar symptoms to varying degrees, and some days are better than..."

Mike - you are being told the same to keep moving has to be the neuro doc's belief in slowing down progression. I've been to 2 neurosurgeons; both said surgery will not eliminate my PN. One surgeon in a major Phila hospital actually made me promise that I would not let anyone operate on my back. Found it a little odd but I agreed. Mayo also said surgery should not take place. I am not sure what our future holds but my wife worked in a hospital for about 25 years, and she does remind me from time to time there are things out there a lot worse than PN.