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Foot numbness after multi level lumbar decompression surgery
Hi, I had severe spinal stenosis & underwent a multi level decompression surgery. The leg & glute pain on the right leg is almost gone but have developed strong numbness on my upper & lower right foot 24/7. The lower feet and heel is quite strong. The spinal surgeon said it would take time as it’s been 4 months since the surgery was done. This is affecting my daily life as I find it difficult to walk confidently. Can anyone please let me know if there is any medication to improve this or any other way to feel better. I did physiotherapy for 2-3 months but I’d didn’t help. Thank you .
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I would want reimaging of the surgical site because this is a new onset symptom. Numbness is common after decompressive surgery from swelling and can recover with waiting but we have an average of 6 to 12 weeks. I'd want to know if there was something new pressing on the nerve causing further damage. Even with the perfect surgeon and perfect surgery sometimes our bones don't hold the screws and they can migrate. You might have the imaging, while we all hope that that it is completely unnecessary.
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2 ReactionsWhat was the type of decompression surgery you had?
Did it include a fusion?
I had an L4/L5 XLIF surgery in 9/2025 for lower back pain and numbness in right side (my left side is fine). And previously a Harrington Rod surgery in 1980. Unfortunately, I still have much pain and numbness. I'll get another x-ray this Friday and see my surgeon. I think it's hard for him to see everything with all the hardware on my spine tho. I know what you mean about not being able to walk confidently. But since your surgery is only 4 months out, yours may be temporary and hopefully will improve. I've read online that some supplements (e.g., B12, R-alpha lipioc acid, magnesium glycimate) all help nerves but hasn't helped me yet. I go to acupuncture which does seem to provide some relief. I also bought a red light therapy belt which I use nightly for about 20 minutes but haven't noticed that it helped yet.