Spinal Nerve Damage

[DiyChas]

I have been trying to see a orthopedic surgeon for 3+ years. I am 78yo.

I have had back problems for many years, after blowing 2 discs in a 24 hour run.

And also too much competitive squash and tennis.

A few years ago my lower back, legs and feet became very painful and mobility decreases dramatically.

After MRIs and xrays, diagnosed with lower back spinal stenosis. But no solution offered.

I pestered my GP to refer to orthopedic surgeon. But all I got was injections that did nothing.

My 4th appointment, 2 weeks ago, was different.

For some reason, the person doing the previous injections was changed to an Anesthesiologist who did a Medial Branch Nerve Block test (in 4 lower vertebrae) to see if affected nerve can be pain blocked.

The result was positive (temporary relief).

This is a life saver.

My pain had forced me to be a couch potato for the last 3 years.

I also had no balance and couldn't ride my road bike.

I am now scheduled for a Radio Frequency Ablation in early January.

Has anyone else completed the ablation a while ago and can tell me if initial success has been extended.

I've been advised repeat of the ablation can be done yearly.

[Kels1974]

Have you had your nerve ablation yet? Has it been successful for you.Im having medial branch block tomorrow.

[DiyChas in reply to Kels1974]

Yes. Had it end of October.It definitely and dramatically reduced the pain. And my balance has returned.

I am slowly rebuilding the muscles in my legs and back.

My aneastheologist wants to do another injection procedure (sideways injections), as there is still pressure from the pinched nerve down to my toes.

I have found an inversion table helps a little in the toes and using Tens Unit helps in the hips areas.

I will update after the injections.