Radiculopathy vs neuropathy

Hello @daisy22, You might want to scan through a similar discussion started by Mike @domiha to see if it may help with what questions to ask when you see your doctor.
-- Radiculopathy vs Peripheral Neuropathy - weakness in calves
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/radiculopathy-vs-peripheral-neuropathy-weakness-in-calves/
You might also find it helpful to plan your conversation with your doctor for your upcoming appointment. This site has some helpful tools for planning the conversation - https://www.patientrevolution.org/tools.

Hi, @daisy22 ..... Does your doctor typically do blood tests when you go for your check up? Mine does, but he was not checking for Vitamin B6 levels until I asked him to add that when I learned that B6 Toxicity can cause PN symptoms. I've tried all the meds (Gabapentin, Lyrica, etc) with no success, but in reading here and in other places I found that R-Alpha Lipoic Acid and Benfotiamine supplements were helping some people with symptoms, and I began taking those daily. That may or may not be something you are interested in trying, but a prescription is not required... I order from Amazon. I was already taking Vitamin D-3 and Vitamin B-12.
John has given you some great links to information, and I feel sure you will get more input from the other people in this wonderful support group. I did have a lumbar laminectomy 2 years ago and afterwards the neuropathy symptoms began. When I was FINALLY able to get in to see a Neurologist, 7 months after my PCP referred me to one, he said he felt I was likely suffering from radiculopathy (compression on the nerves where they exit the spinal column) rather than Small Fiber Neuropathy. Symptoms can be very similar.... tingling, numbness, weakness in muscles in ankles and lower legs.... Best wishes! Mike

Yes, she does blood tests. When I felt what I thought were the PN symptoms, I checked on the internet and went off cholesterol meds and B vitamins. Now things are worse but my back may be worse if it's radiculopathy.

Thank all for the suggestions and experiences you've had. I will talk to my doctor and see what she says.

When my spine became inoperable, my neurosurgeon recommended a morphine pump. For me, it works great. Minor surgery is performed after a trial run. A catheter is inserted in the spinal cord. A low dose is dispensed in the spinal cord, that is very effective. You have no control over the amount you receive. The doctor through computer, sets the amount dispensed. It is usually suggested by your doctor or a pain clinic. I don't know where you live, but most teaching hospitals have this treatment available upon referral from your doctor. There is also an electrical stimulation machine that is for pain management. I have gotten great relief from this form of treatment. Good luck.

I have never been offered that treatment!! I am going to talk to my doctor about that. Thank you for suggesting that. I will try almost anything.

Another thought @daisy22 .... If you haven't asked about a Spinal Cord Stimulator, check into that online and see if you think that might help with your pain. It is not a major surgical procedure to get one.... and you can have it for a trial period before deciding whether or not to go with the permanent implant of the device. Might be worth asking about. And you can find information about the SCS here on Connect. Best wishes! Mike

Another person suggested that, so I'm going to ask my doc about both options. Thank you.

Just wanted to clarify, I never had an electrical stimulation implant, but was offered it. I found 2 nurses who chose the stimulator and they did not say positive things about it, while it seems to work for others. Just try things until you find something that works. Good luck.

i found 2 nurses who