Neuropathy from lumbar stenosis?

Yes, I have failed lumbar back surgery. Developed neuropathy almost immediately after surgery. I had zero leg pain and mid-hip pain before surgery. I did have bursitis in both hip joints prior to surgery. Orthopedic surgeon said the bursitis pain was caused from my back problems, and would go away after surgery. That didn’t happen, I’m in far greater pain post surgery than I was before. It’s been 12 years ago, still have original back pain except it’s much worse, neuropathy in both legs, and bursitis in both hip joints. I do not recommend back surgery. Try everything else first.

Hello @john316ga and welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. I am very sorry to learn of your failed lumbar back surgery and the resulting symptoms you've developed. Joining connect to seek support and experiences from others to know you are not alone is wonderful.

I'd like to bring in members such as @njed @txsongbird and @jenniferhunter who may be able to share their experiences with you.

Have you sought a second opinion at at another hospital since your failed surgery 12 years ago? If no, are you interested now?

I have arranged for a second opinion with neurology and I am going to a foot clinic who say they may be able to help. My feet and lower legs are very painful and it is basically ruining my life. I could not find where you put my post but I will have another look. It's a moan really though isn't it!

@fisbo, you will notice that I have moved your post into a discussion on Neuropathy from Lumbar Stenosis, which you can find here: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/neuropathy-from-lumbar-stenosis/

@john316ga -- Relating to the hip issues, about 10 years back, high level pain left hip, went to orthopedic surgeon, he gave me a shot of cortisone and 2nd shot 90 days later. Big help. As far as back is concerned, I've been to two neurosurgeons because I originally figured my PN was coming from lower back and both said although I have back issues, no surgery will help with my PN, OK. Each case obviously different and I agree with you that surgery should be last option. I happened to go to two neuro docs that were not only honest but as it turned out, right. Sorry to hear about your case.

Yes, I have failed lumbar back surgery. Developed neuropathy almost immediately after surgery. I had zero leg pain and mid-hip pain before surgery. I did have bursitis in both hip joints prior to surgery. Orthopedic surgeon said the bursitis pain was caused from my back problems, and would go away after surgery. That didn’t happen, I’m in far greater pain post surgery than I was before. It’s been 12 years ago, still have original back pain except it’s much worse, neuropathy in both legs, and bursitis in both hip joints. I do not recommend back surgery. Try everything else first.

@martyk Thanks for asking. Yes, I did have neck pain, and pain all over my body. I think there was pain generated from the bad disc too, and it was slipping a bit causing cord compression. I would get muscle spasms in my neck and bad cervicogenic headaches on the back of my head, and even some vertigo intermittently. My physical therapist was treating me with a Dolphin neurostimulator on the nerve roots to block pain signals.

Are you having similar symptoms?

I had lower back pain that would keep me on the floor 2 weeks per year. 15 years ago I read "Healing back pain" by Dr. John Sarno. I'm in no way a spiritual guy, and am usually a non believer in non medical opinions. His book saved me from pain in my lower back and have not had an episode since reading it. It's a 10.00 book that can do wonders for you.