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L5 S1 spinal fusion
I was involved in a semi versus semi crash. Due to at fault driver running stop sign. I had surgery on my knee in December of 2024. I had a L5 S1 spinal fusion on January 27 2025. I am having trouble with numbness in legs and feet. Enlarged prostate, erectile dysfunction and major trouble regulating my blood pressure. Chills on torso. And cannot drive for more than 30 min. My blood pressure yesterday was a high of 177/122 with taking meds. My primary doctor is trying to adjust. But a month at a time. I get many dizzy spells through out the day. I am getting very concerned about what my life will be like?
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Will these symptoms go away? Should I get nerve test? Looking for anyone with similar symptoms. Thanks in advance.
@dallison1961
I’m sorry to hear of your accident and need for surgeries. I have had cervical (c5-c6) and lumbar (l3-l5) decompression/fusion surgeries. I need to have c6-c7 done next.
Did you have an EMG/nerve conduction study by a neurologist before surgeries? If not, definitely get them now. You may also want to get a neuropathy bloodwork panel and small fiber neuropathy skin punch biopsy.
Did you get pre- and post-surgery MRIs of your cervical and lumbar spine? Did you review the reports and impressions made by the radiologist in detail? Cervical spine injuries can cause issues below the level, including bladder/bowel/legs/feet.
You may want a vascular/vein specialist to ensure your blood flow is good and get an ankle brachial index test.
@dallison1961
Lumbar spine fusion can take a long time to heal. I had mine in August 2024 and it took 6 months to start feeling better and have less nerve pain. Nerve injuries take a long time to heal if it is possible.
Do you know if your spinal cord was compressed/injured or just your nerve roots/nerves injured? Did you have any broken vertebrae/bones or just soft tissue injuries?