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What Causes Discomfort In Leg With History Of Spinal Fusion?
Question: Hello. I am a 50 yr old female with prior spinal fusion at L6-S1 (yes, I have 6 lumbar vertebra). Surgery was done in 2002 with residual numbness in my right leg. I now am experiencing a "buzzing" sensation in my left leg; the entire leg. It literally feels like I have a cell phone set to vibrate in my leg that buzzes every few seconds. It doesn't matter what position I am in, whether sitting, standing, or lying down, nothing seems to relieve it. I've has a CT of my brain which is clear. What could be the cause? Do I need a follow up CT of head and spine?
I've recently had my annual physical with bloodwork and all is within normal limits. I do have hypothyroid which is controlled by Armour Thyroid. No other health conditions other than anxiety disorder and recurrent depression, both controlled with medication. (Effexor/Ativan).
I've recently had my annual physical with bloodwork and all is within normal limits. I do have hypothyroid which is controlled by Armour Thyroid. No other health conditions other than anxiety disorder and recurrent depression, both controlled with medication. (Effexor/Ativan).
Brief Answer:
EMG and MRI is required.
Detailed Answer:
Hello. I have been through your question and understand your concern.
I think you had what is called lumbalisation of the S1 vertebra, so basically you had S1-S2 fusion because it is very improbable you really have 6 lumbar vertebras. Anyway what you are experiencing is a somehow sensory impairment related or not to the fusion. It might be a side effect of the antidepressive treatment because for both of this drugs are reported muscle cramps, trembeling or jerks.
According to me you should follow with:
1. Objective neurological exam - to see if there is any sensory deficit related to your complains.
2. Nerve conduction study and electromyogram to see if there is a demyelinisation of the nerves in the concerned area.
3. MRI of the spine to see if there is any compression of the lumbosacral roots, especially in the left.
After these the situation will be more clear.
Hope this helps. Please feel free for further questions.
EMG and MRI is required.
Detailed Answer:
Hello. I have been through your question and understand your concern.
I think you had what is called lumbalisation of the S1 vertebra, so basically you had S1-S2 fusion because it is very improbable you really have 6 lumbar vertebras. Anyway what you are experiencing is a somehow sensory impairment related or not to the fusion. It might be a side effect of the antidepressive treatment because for both of this drugs are reported muscle cramps, trembeling or jerks.
According to me you should follow with:
1. Objective neurological exam - to see if there is any sensory deficit related to your complains.
2. Nerve conduction study and electromyogram to see if there is a demyelinisation of the nerves in the concerned area.
3. MRI of the spine to see if there is any compression of the lumbosacral roots, especially in the left.
After these the situation will be more clear.
Hope this helps. Please feel free for further questions.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Ashwin Bhandari
Answered by
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