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Stenosis ++

Posted by katie215 @katie215, Aug 15, 2020

Age 71yo old gal here. L5S1 autofusion, Grace II spondylolisthesis. Severe spinal stenosis complicated by significant impingement L5 nerves, both foramen caused by loss of foramenal height. Extensive spurring. Surgery ruled out due to possible need to refracture autofusion.

Ergo, surviving with opioid "cocktail", gabapentin, +++twisting, burning, stabbing pain, both calves and thighs, 24/7.

Very cooperative helping husband but wearing thin on perseverance here. Cannot imagine another 10+ years of this with a brain that's operating at warp speed.

Perhaps there is someone somewhere sharing these same issues looking at same future.

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Spine Health Support Group.

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mmalone1804 | @mmalone1804 | Jul 29, 2024
In reply to @upstatephil "@mmalone1804 - I did have rectal issues but nothing like what you're experiencing. Sorry. Surgery made..." + (show)
Profile picture for Phil, Alumni Mentor @upstatephil

@mmalone1804 - I did have rectal issues but nothing like what you're experiencing. Sorry. Surgery made all those bladder/rectal challenges go away.

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Thank you for sharing your experience. I’m pretty much convinced that my particular issue isn’t a result of the stenosis. I am happy that you got relief!

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coldwinter12 | @coldwinter12 | 4 hours ago
In reply to @upstatephil "@mmalone1804 - Good morning. I'm sorry to hear of your severe stenosis. I understand the discomfort..." + (show)
Profile picture for Phil, Alumni Mentor @upstatephil

@mmalone1804 - Good morning. I'm sorry to hear of your severe stenosis. I understand the discomfort along with your very real quandary as to what to do next. My neurosurgeon (who I grew to be close to and who was very willing to talk straight with me) described my spine as "a mess". In 2023 I did a 4-level job on both cervical and lumbar regions. One year+ post surgeries - I'm happy to report that 99% of pre-surgical symptoms are gone. But recovery is still progressing.

I had all the symptoms you mentioned including rectal pain (at times almost unbearable) and GI problems. Now? All of those discomforts and inconveniences are totally gone! And I don't miss them. Folks who've never experienced "sudden and surprising onset of a bowel movement" may not appreciate how much your life can be impacted!

Where are you in the diagnostic process? Do you have a strategy in place? Mayo Connect is a great place to ask questions, share feelings, and gain new knowledge.

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@upstatephil Wow, so glad you had success! What kind of surgery did you have? I'm not sure I'm understanding a 4-level job. Thank you.

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