Well, I'm still going to the chiropractor, but also have seen a neurologist. She sent me for a MRI and the news was not as good as I had expected. As a matter of fact, it was really crappy. I have six joints in my lumbar region that are seriously compromised--L1-L2, L2-L3, L3-L4, L4-L5, L5-S1. The compromise consists of moderately to severe stenosis and an outright disc herniation at the L5-S1 joint. At each of these joints my spinal cord is slightly compressed to the point that it looks like a string of link sausages. I suspect it ultimately means some rather extensive surgery and I am guessing a long recovery time--weeks but more like months I suspect. Further compromise can lead to loss of bowel and/or bladder control and loss of motor function in my right leg and foot. All I can say is YUK!
I have to schedule an appointment with a spinal surgeon to see where we go from here. But am going to continue physical therapy since it has been helping and anything I do to strengthen my back can only help the recovery process when and if surgery becomes a reality.
Will just have to wait and see, but we are going to Maine first. Then will see what is next.
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3 comments:
Dad--
Seems like the Harris genes strike again! I'm sorry that you have to go through this. Keep us updated on what's going on...I love you
It is safe to assume that, if you were a horse, we would have no choice but to shoot you...but I do I believe you would provide outstanding glue. Seriously, I suffer from spinal stenosis as well, certainly not to the extent you describe in your situation. Sometimes I do irritate it, but yeah, it sucks immensely...Keep exercising...
Thanks Alvin--see my newest note. It may be that a pain management specialist could be of some help.
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