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Is there any help at all for foot numbness in PN
Neuropathy | Last Active: 10 hours ago | Replies (124)Comment receiving replies
John - I've had lower back issues for about 15 years and having a diagnosis of idiopathic sensory motor, the thought has entered my mind more than once that the cause of my PN could be from lower back issues. I've seen members of the connect mention back issues and having PN. Does seem hard to believe that when we consider the 100-some-odd causes of PN, what percentage could be back related. I've had many tests, seen top neurosurgeons in my area and 2 top docs said surgery will not help. In fact, Mayo had same opinion, however they said my back issues could contribute to numbness but not be the central cause. How many others due to older age experience the same?
Replies to "John - I've had lower back issues for about 15 years and having a diagnosis of..."
Hello, @njed ~
I agree - the thing is, from what I can conclude from the many members of Connect dealing with this, a cause and effect seems to be very individual. My PN started between 20 and 25 years ago, but have also had spinal abnormalities for probably 15 of those years. Eventually the spinal problems (stenosis, spondelosethesis [sp.], arthritis, and bone spurs) required decompression and fusion of L2 to sacrum, and although that surgery was successful in its intentional outcome, the PN symptoms of balance, gait, and numbness worsened considerably, while sleep-robbing pain remained unbearable without Pregabalin and Tramadol. I'm just so grateful, at 77, to be living with controlled pain and independently with God's help - that remains my goal, medically speaking.
I, too, am a person of faith and I add my prayers for all who are trying to find answers, hope, and help.
~ Barb
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I've often thought my lower back might be contributing to my neuropathy numbness symptoms since the nerves do pass through that junction. I also degenerative disc disease in my lower back and neck. I'm just happy I have some mobility and hope I can keep moving.