BajaNomad

sciatica ???????

cj5orion - 9-13-2014 at 09:02 AM

no back pain though !
thigh pain=little
lower back leg=alot
ankle= a little

left leg only
chronic
pain,numbness.

suggestions,advice,exercises

??????????

55steve - 9-13-2014 at 09:29 AM

I had a similar issue Bert. My left leg would ache so bad I wasn't able to walk more than 100 yards. I went to several doctors many times over 2 years and they kept telling me it was nerve related and I kept telling them is was vascular. They ended up putting a stent in my left femoral artery and all is well.

[Edited on 9-13-2014 by 55steve]

DianaT - 9-13-2014 at 09:31 AM

Certainly not for everyone, and I am certainly NOT giving advice, just mentioning some personal experience.

John has had this problem for years and years and the most recent flare up of the sciatica was brutal --- he is now seeing a back specialist who is not a surgeon, as another doctor said, the surgeons sometimes are too quick to put a scar on your back. Not that that might not happen in the future, but for now it is just an option. The specialist he is seeing works with the USA Ski Team which we think is a good thing.

He put John into Physical Therapy with very specific exercises including nerve flossing exercises, for him to learn for a ongoing home program. He then scheduled him with another specialist for one of those x ray guided epidural cortisone shots. He already had the MRI done. They don't work for everyone and he was not too keen about having it done until we talked to our neighbor who said it was great.

Well, so far, the results have been amazing and they could last a short time or for a few years. Meantime, he will continue with the exercises, especially since more weakness set in because of the pain. When in severe pain, one does not move that area.

He was in so much pain with all that numbness, etc., and is now no longer like a grizzly bear with a tooth ache. This is not a cure as his last five discs are without any cushion, but it has stopped the months of agony for now and he can once again feel his leg.

I would suggest you see a specialist who really knows what they are doing as it is different for everyone. And there may be other reasons why you might not benefit from the shot and it is not without some potential side effects. We really checked out the doctor who did the procedure. And the procedure was quick and easy. But again, this is just personal experience.

As Steve posted, what some thought was sciatica was not his problem ---- it is definitely specialist time!







[Edited on 9-13-2014 by DianaT]

SFandH - 9-13-2014 at 09:43 AM

I had a bad case of sciatica once and a couple milder cases since. The bad case kept me in bed most of the time for about 3 weeks and it took a year before I was able to cross the affected leg when sitting on a chair. Everything is OK now.

My sciatica was caused by trauma. I lifted something way to heavy using the wrong technique. I knew immediately I goofed-up. Sciatica caused by non-trauma issues is hard to get rid of.

The condition was diagnosed by a doctor and he prescribed the pain reliever Tramadol and the anti-inflammatory Ketorolaco. Tramadol has a maximum dosage of 400 mg a day according to Internet sites dedicated to pharmacology. It is an opioid, or opioid like, there is some debate, so there is an addiction possibility with withdrawal symptoms when you stop. I had to taper off. Ketorolaco has small probabilities of serious side-effects according to what I read.

There is a lot of info on these two drugs on the Internet. Study before you take them.

They're both available over the counter in Mexico.

But first, it would be best to see a doctor for a diagnosis. It's a common geezer ailment. ;)



[Edited on 9-13-2014 by SFandH]

bajabuddha - 9-13-2014 at 10:11 AM

Dittos with Diana T (and god forbid I give any immoral or life-threatening advice!)... it can be more than just sciatica, but get in to have it diagnosed, and a good first step can be physical therapy. By your signature you're a builder; that coupled with a li'l paunch (just askin') can aggravate it; do you wear a waist belt or harness? I sure did when doing construction. Posture and gut have everything to do with the lower back. The older we get the heavier the materials get too; my theory of Earth Compaction... one day it's "oh chit! Gravity works!" Good luck to you; it's a common malady, and you have a lot of sympathizers in your corner.

willardguy - 9-13-2014 at 10:26 AM

hey im in no way endorsing chiropractors, I always figured they were all quacks but in my 30's I suffered awfully with sciatica and finally a trip to ol' alan harper completely cured me. of course ymmv ;)

DianaT - 9-13-2014 at 10:43 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by willardguy
hey im in no way endorsing chiropractors, I always figured they were all quacks but in my 30's I suffered awfully with sciatica and finally a trip to ol' alan harper completely cured me. of course ymmv ;)


For years and years, good chiropractors were able to help John when things flared up. We have a very good chiropractor here and this time he worked on John, but it was he who suggested and pushed John into seeing the back specialist because of the severe numbness.

Unlike some chiropractors, he will refer patients to traditional medical people. The chiropractors we stay away from are the ones who believe they can cure everything!

BTW--- the specialist said that chiropractors can be useful. It is nice when they work together rather than throwing stones at each other. And they all believe in Physical Therapy especially if it is directed at setting up a permanent home program.

I guess I so strongly suggest seeing a specialist is because it has been such a huge godsend for John and our lives, and too many regular doctors have just written it off because it is so common.

Suggestions are good, but nothing takes the place of a REAL personal diagnosis and personalized plan. You could go on the internet and find exercises, but you risk doing the wrong ones for your individual condition.


bajabuddha We are probably on thin ice now. :lol::lol:

[Edited on 9-13-2014 by DianaT]

larryC - 9-13-2014 at 12:03 PM

About 20 years ago I suffered from lower back pain radiating down my right leg. I put up with it for a couple of years and when I couldn't stand it any more I went to an orthopedic surgeon and got checked out. He found a bulging disk that was putting pressure on the nerves. Had surgery to remove the bulge and have been fine for the last 20 years. Your problem may be something else entirely so just get checked out by some one you trust. Good luck with it.
Larry

Paulina - 9-13-2014 at 01:57 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by larryC
About 20 years ago I suffered from lower back pain radiating down my right leg. I put up with it for a couple of years and when I couldn't stand it any more I went to an orthopedic surgeon and got checked out. He found a bulging disk that was putting pressure on the nerves. Had surgery to remove the bulge and have been fine for the last 20 years. Your problem may be something else entirely so just get checked out by some one you trust. Good luck with it.
Larry


Same here, i had three bulging discs. I had a neurologist perform my surgery. He said it should last for 7-10 years. I'm going on 20 years now and still ok, but have to be careful at times.
P>*)))>{

pauldavidmena - 9-13-2014 at 03:02 PM

In 1986 I moved from Summerville to Charleston, SC and had 4 really strong guys help me haul furniture from the first house to the garage of the second house. I had the bright idea of bringing everything in from the garage by myself, including a washer and dryer. I didn't feel bad right away, but the first sign that something was wrong was a burning sensation in my right heel. Within 24 hours, it was radiating up the back of my leg.

Doctors took x-rays and told me that I had sciatica. "But I don't have a disk injury", I said. "Oh yes you do", they replied. A few days later, I could hardly move.

I've had good and bad experiences with chiropractors, but the one I had in Charleston was a treasure. The acute pain was stabilized in a few appointments, and I was able to avoid surgery, even though I still have a clear herniation of disk L5/S1. To this day it's been periodic physical therapy and yoga, the occasional epidural injection, and strong beer. :smug:

Bajaboy - 9-13-2014 at 06:56 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by cj5orion
no back pain though !
thigh pain=little
lower back leg=alot
ankle= a little

left leg only
chronic
pain,numbness.

suggestions,advice,exercises

??????????


Does not sound like an issue with the sciatic nerve to me. Does the pain involve your tendon above your ankle? If so, sounds like Achilles tendinitis.

I'm racking my brain trying to think of something. I don't claim to be a doctor but am fairly good at diagnosing leg injuries due to my running background.

More info please

DianaT - 9-13-2014 at 07:27 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by Bajaboy
Quote:
Originally posted by cj5orion
no back pain though !
thigh pain=little
lower back leg=alot
ankle= a little

left leg only
chronic
pain,numbness.

suggestions,advice,exercises

??????????


Does not sound like an issue with the sciatic nerve to me. Does the pain involve your tendon above your ankle? If so, sounds like Achilles tendinitis.

I'm racking my brain trying to think of something. I don't claim to be a doctor but am fairly good at diagnosing leg injuries due to my running background.

More info please


My orthopedic doctor has told me that pain seldoms radiates up, but often radiates down.

You bring up another possibility ---

cj5orion --- please see a specialist before you try anything as the possibilities are many.


[Edited on 9-14-2014 by DianaT]

Bajaboy - 9-13-2014 at 08:05 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by DianaT
Quote:
Originally posted by Bajaboy
Quote:
Originally posted by cj5orion
no back pain though !
thigh pain=little
lower back leg=alot
ankle= a little

left leg only
chronic
pain,numbness.

suggestions,advice,exercises

??????????


Does not sound like an issue with the sciatic nerve to me. Does the pain involve your tendon above your ankle? If so, sounds like Achilles tendinitis.

I'm racking my brain trying to think of something. I don't claim to be a doctor but am fairly good at diagnosing leg injuries due to my running background.

More info please


My orthopedic doctor has told me that pain seldoms radiates up, but often radiates down.

You bring up another possibility ---

cj5orion --- please see a specialist before you try anything as the possibilities are many.


[Edited on 9-14-2014 by DianaT]


I agree about the multiple possibilities. If you were having issues with the sciatic nerve in the lower part of your leg it would be the outside of your knee that would be bothering you. This is often called runner's knee.

Are you active? Did you recently start climbing stairs, hiking, etc.?

Skipjack Joe - 9-14-2014 at 12:03 AM

A close friend of mine has recently had very similar symptoms. A full checkup showed a PSA of 200. His 2-year old prostate cancer surgery had failed and the cancer had metastasized to the bone in the lower back where a tumor was pinching his nerve. He had no back pain back then.

Not to scare you because this is very unusual. But it shows how different the cause can be from what you expect it to be.

cj5orion - 9-14-2014 at 04:53 AM

Thanks for the many responses !
didnt realize.
Looks like a trip to the doc is in order,hope my doc knows a "specialist" ?

EnsenadaDr - 9-14-2014 at 05:41 PM

Yes, please do. I am in awe of the medical advice that comes out on this board. Then again, I didn't sleep at a Holiday inn last night. The main thing is that you GO TO THE DOCTOR. You could have a blood clot in your calf as well and it could be serious. I am so glad you aren't using the diagnoses here to convince yourself you have sciatica or a simple muscle strain in case it is something more serious. Oh and by the way, don't take Pepto Bismol for this. I don't think it would help, even though Buddha prescribed it.

DianaT - 9-14-2014 at 06:01 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by EnsenadaDr
Yes, please do. I am in awe of the medical advice that comes out on this board. Then again, I didn't sleep at a Holiday inn last night. The main thing is that you GO TO THE DOCTOR. You could have a blood clot in your calf as well and it could be serious. I am so glad you aren't using the diagnoses here to convince yourself you have sciatica or a simple muscle strain in case it is something more serious. Oh and by the way, don't take Pepto Bismol for this. I don't think it would help, even though Buddha prescribed it.


In the responses to his inquiry, I sure don't see where ANYONE attempted to diagnose or give advice other than see a doctor. People simply shared personal experiences with similar symptoms and over and over people emphasized that there are endless possibilities as to what may be wrong and that he needs to see a doctor.

Then again, pepto is probably a good idea.

Bajaboy - 9-14-2014 at 06:24 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by DianaT
Quote:
Originally posted by EnsenadaDr
Yes, please do. I am in awe of the medical advice that comes out on this board. Then again, I didn't sleep at a Holiday inn last night. The main thing is that you GO TO THE DOCTOR. You could have a blood clot in your calf as well and it could be serious. I am so glad you aren't using the diagnoses here to convince yourself you have sciatica or a simple muscle strain in case it is something more serious. Oh and by the way, don't take Pepto Bismol for this. I don't think it would help, even though Buddha prescribed it.


In the responses to his inquiry, I sure don't see where ANYONE attempted to diagnose or give advice other than see a doctor. People simply shared personal experiences with similar symptoms and over and over people emphasized that there are endless possibilities as to what may be wrong and that he needs to see a doctor.

Then again, pepto is probably a good idea.


You forgot to insert real....:lol:

EnsenadaDr - 9-14-2014 at 06:49 PM

I'm licensed, Bajaboy, what are your credentials to judge me? Or do you just like to defame others and set yourself up for a lawsuit?
Quote:
Originally posted by Bajaboy
Quote:
Originally posted by DianaT
Quote:
Originally posted by EnsenadaDr
Yes, please do. I am in awe of the medical advice that comes out on this board. Then again, I didn't sleep at a Holiday inn last night. The main thing is that you GO TO THE DOCTOR. You could have a blood clot in your calf as well and it could be serious. I am so glad you aren't using the diagnoses here to convince yourself you have sciatica or a simple muscle strain in case it is something more serious. Oh and by the way, don't take Pepto Bismol for this. I don't think it would help, even though Buddha prescribed it.


In the responses to his inquiry, I sure don't see where ANYONE attempted to diagnose or give advice other than see a doctor. People simply shared personal experiences with similar symptoms and over and over people emphasized that there are endless possibilities as to what may be wrong and that he needs to see a doctor.

Then again, pepto is probably a good idea.


You forgot to insert real....:lol:

Bajaboy - 9-14-2014 at 07:13 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by EnsenadaDr
I'm licensed, Bajaboy, what are your credentials to judge me? Or do you just like to defame others and set yourself up for a lawsuit?
Quote:
Originally posted by Bajaboy
Quote:
Originally posted by DianaT
Quote:
Originally posted by EnsenadaDr
Yes, please do. I am in awe of the medical advice that comes out on this board. Then again, I didn't sleep at a Holiday inn last night. The main thing is that you GO TO THE DOCTOR. You could have a blood clot in your calf as well and it could be serious. I am so glad you aren't using the diagnoses here to convince yourself you have sciatica or a simple muscle strain in case it is something more serious. Oh and by the way, don't take Pepto Bismol for this. I don't think it would help, even though Buddha prescribed it.


In the responses to his inquiry, I sure don't see where ANYONE attempted to diagnose or give advice other than see a doctor. People simply shared personal experiences with similar symptoms and over and over people emphasized that there are endless possibilities as to what may be wrong and that he needs to see a doctor.

Then again, pepto is probably a good idea.


You forgot to insert real....:lol:


Licensed yes.....I'm glad you have a piece of paper....:lol:I'll remember that the next time I run out.:P

Bajaboy - 9-14-2014 at 08:03 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by EnsenadaDr
I'm sure the immigration department and the Federal Mexican Government would like to hear what you have to say about their licenses.


That would be great...they've earned my respect. :lol:

cj5orion - 9-15-2014 at 06:14 AM

stay on the thread !!!

SFandH - 9-15-2014 at 06:16 AM

exactly!

how's the leg?

Skipjack Joe - 9-15-2014 at 09:11 AM

Quote:
Originally posted by cj5orion
stay on the thread !!!


Exactly.

Bob53 - 9-15-2014 at 11:39 AM

I have been dealing with sciatica for about 15 years now. It hurts mostly when sitting. The pain starts in my left hip and runs down the back of my leg. I have been to chiropractors with very little success. Through the years I have just learned to live with the pain. Some days it's worse than others.

Sweetwater - 9-15-2014 at 11:50 AM

Quote:
****************
Quote:
****************


*******************

I would kick in here with my 14 month experience with 3 ruptured lumbar discs and resulting neurosurgeries but I wouldn't want to interrupt the BajaBoy/DK mindless match of ignorance.

Best advice is to see a qualified person with experience and to know your own body and situation. I've been dealing with significant structure issues for 45 years and that scoliosis was the reason for the disc disease, problems and interventions. YMMV as they say......

[Edited on 9-16-2014 by BajaNomad]

bajalearner - 9-15-2014 at 12:50 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by EnsenadaDr
Yes, please do. I am in awe of the medical advice that comes out on this board. Then again, I didn't sleep at a Holiday inn last night. The main thing is that you GO TO THE DOCTOR. You could have a blood clot in your calf as well and it could be serious. I am so glad you aren't using the diagnoses here to convince yourself you have sciatica or a simple muscle strain in case it is something more serious. Oh and by the way, don't take Pepto Bismol for this. I don't think it would help, even though Buddha prescribed it.


Its informative to read the experience of other people who have experience with a person's problem/situation. I also give great credence to the advice of a person who has training and experience in a discipline.

When an expert tells me to "GO TO THE DOCTOR" I know they are right but do I always go?...no because I'm _______. I'll let you fill in the blank and I'll probably agree with the word. :(:barf::?:

cj5orion - 9-15-2014 at 07:37 PM

this IS a thread about Sciatica !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
NOT about ANYTHING ELSE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Open up your own thread !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1
STOP !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
POLLUTING......THIS THREAD !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

GET IT !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

SFandH - 9-15-2014 at 07:45 PM

So cj5orion, how's the leg? Have you tried any meds?

cj5orion - 9-15-2014 at 07:50 PM

Quote:
Originally posted by SFandH
So cj5orion, how's the leg? Have you tried any meds?


OFF TOPIC !!!!!
:lol::lol::lol::lol:

NO MEDS....went to a "specialist Chiro" today

jury still out ?
WHEN !!!! "the pollution" stops...... ?
Ill keep everybody posted

OR ELSE....I'll OPEN A NEW THREAD !

cj5orion - 9-15-2014 at 07:52 PM

:?:

cj5orion - 9-16-2014 at 09:24 AM

had a good walk this morning !
FIRST in a long long time !
lil stiffness n soreness...lower calf now,not anything at all like the stiff n soreness of the upper calf.

EnsenadaDr - 9-16-2014 at 12:23 PM

Wonderful, the main thing is that you are feeling better!!
Quote:
Originally posted by cj5orion
had a good walk this morning !
FIRST in a long long time !
lil stiffness n soreness...lower calf now,not anything at all like the stiff n soreness of the upper calf.