Mildly Invasive Spinal Surgery for Neuropathy

Posted by highdesertdweller @highdesertdweller, Jun 3 12:14am

I have terrible numbness like a vice and electric currents with my neuropathy among other symptoms. Two neurologists, a podiatrist and a PT have all said that my MRIs show severe spinal compression and other problems and that I indicate perfectly for relief via MILD or mildly invasive spinal surgery. After waiting four months I finally have an appointment with the only guy in town that specializes in this. The podiatrist said that for some people this can be like a miracle, while others get no relief. Does anyone have any experience with this procedure, any advice, any knowledge of side effects, etc? All would be greatly appreciated. I can't sleep tonight once again and my quality of life is pretty low right now so to me, at least, I feel I don't have that much to lose. Thanks.

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Neuropathy Support Group.

John, Volunteer Mentor | @johnbishop | Jun 3 7:22am

Hello @highdesertdweller, I also have terrible numbness in my legs and feet along with the vice like squeezing but no pain or electrical currents. The vice like feeling for me I think is due to having to wear compression socks due to having lymphedema in both legs but mostly my right one. I've wondered about back surgery because I also have lower back issues but at 83 don't really want to deal with another surgery if it's not a guaranteed fix. There is a related discussion that you might find helpful while you wait for others to respond.

-- What is recovery like after minimally invasive lumbar spine surgery?
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/what-is-recovery-like-after-minimally-invasive-lumbar-spine-surgery/
There are also many members who have posted about minimally invasive spine surgery. Here's a search link that lists the comments - https://connect.mayoclinic.org/search/comments/.

julkun | @julkun | Jun 3 8:48am

First of all, what is causing your neuropathy? Is it diabetes? Second, what is mildly invasive spinal surgery? Good luck whatever you do.

mrmacabre | @mrmacabre | Jun 3 1:40pm

What part of your spine are you referring too?

highdesertdweller | @highdesertdweller | Jun 3 6:29pm

Thanks, John. They say it is diabetes which does not indicate well for the surgery. The surgery seems best suited for those with stenosis which makes me wonder why the neurologist would recommend it for me unless it (now) has ancillary relief for neuropathy. I'm not positive I have diabetes or diabetic neuropathy, however. I have terrible compression from my neck on down to my lumbar. Everything is severe. PLMK