I have L5 nerve damage and doctor won't refer me to a specialist

Posted by daisy22 @daisy22, Nov 27 6:04am

Since anterior total hip I've had spine problems, I already have spondylolisthesis, I now have L5 nerve damage with symptoms of incontinence, leg tingling and now I have polyneuropathy in that entire leg to foot after an EMG diagnosis. I've read on the internet what can happen if you don't treat or fix the nerve, including ending up in a wheelchair. My doctor won't refer me to a specialist, so should I just find a neurologist or orthopedist who would fix this problem with the nerve and not piss off my doctor or live with this. Thanks for any ideas.

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Jennifer, Volunteer Mentor | @jenniferhunter | Dec 1 2:11pm

@daisy22 I would get another opinion from a doctor at another facility. Have your spine problems been fully explored? If you have spinal cord compression in your neck, it may cause the symptoms you described including leg pain and gait disturbances. Does your primary doctor have to refer you in order to have insurance coverage?

If you look at a website called MSKneurology.com under the articles menu, you will also find articles about pelvic alignment issues causing pain that mimic spine problems. That may be something physical therapy could address.