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What are people's experiences with spinal fusion surgery?
Spine Health | Last Active: 3 days ago | Replies (217)Comment receiving replies
I wasn't as lucky as theo316.
I am one of those who had TLIF L2-L5 for scoliosis and spinal stenosis and ended up with foot drop on my right foot, ongoing denervation of the peroneal nerve and consequently muscular dystrophy of the same (right leg).
I can no longer walk w/o a walker and can no longer drive.
The surgery didn't even help with my back pain but added neurologic pain like burning pain of the inside of my lower right leg, painful numbness (pins & needles, itching) and pain of my otherwise paralyzed ankle and foot. I can no longer wear an AFO because even if I take it off I feel it squeezing my ankle and lower leg.
The condition is permanent, irreversible and progressive as Iit was proved by EMG and nerve ultrasound.
I have been living practically indoors since the surgery (2 years and 3 months ago). I deeply regret the day when I consented to and went through with this terrible surgery.
Replies to "I wasn't as lucky as theo316. I am one of those who had TLIF L2-L5 for..."
I’m sorry to hear that. I had ALIF L4-L5-S1 fusion 11 months ago. I’m no better than I was before surgery and unable to work or do much of anything. I got new MRI and CT scans, but the docs don’t see any clues as to the problem. What are EMG and nerve ultrasound? I’m wondering if these might help.
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I am so very sorry this has happened to you. In all of my research I have never heard of a 3 level spinal fusion (L2- L5) I am sure that must have left you in agony. My only wish for you is that my Dr could see you to re-evaluate and REALLY make sure nothing can be done to ease your pain. You will always be in my prayers and I'm so very sorry that you are living in constant discomfort.