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Health

Spinal stenosis

(6 Posts)
Taralou Wed 19-Jul-17 22:19:38

Thanks for the advice charleygirl and LadyGracie. Think I will look into this once again.

Charleygirl Wed 19-Jul-17 20:53:54

You need to do some research before you see your GP. You want a referral to a spinal surgeon, not one who who covers joint replacements etc. Even if it meant travelling a few miles further it would be well worth it.

LadyGracie Wed 19-Jul-17 18:37:07

I would see your dr and say you would like another scan to see if there is a problem, I was physically fit as well apart from being unable to walk, they thought I had muscle spasm until I had another scan, then they found another problem.

Taralou Wed 19-Jul-17 18:22:48

thanks for your reply LadyGracie. I sometimes feel I am the only one with this. The problem is I am absolutely fine healthwise (well, virtually!!) just walking. Cannot go for longs walks with DH or GC as have to keep stopping. I had a fusion and rods and screws but made no difference. I was also given gabapentin and, like you, made no difference. Do you think I should have more surgery? I dont bother the doctor any more as I feel there is nothing they can do.sad

LadyGracie Wed 19-Jul-17 18:07:42

I had three surgeries in 16 months before my pain on walking was cured. Did you have TLIF (rods and screws) or did they fuse the vertebrae? After my second operation I was given gabapentin to relax my muscles, apart from making me feel 'away with the fairies' they had no effect whatever. After having another scan the surgeon advised another op and I've never looked back. I've been without pain for 10 years.

Taralou Wed 19-Jul-17 17:55:48

I was diagnosed with spinal stenosis a few years ago. Had the epidural injections (didn't work)and eventually had fusion back surgery. This has not helped either. The last time I visited the doctor I was given Amotryptaline as this apparently 'relaxes' the muscles. Apart from getting a really good nights sleep no difference again. My problem is walking. I can only walk a couple of hundred yards before pains sets in. Does anyone else experience this? Any tips would be most welcome.