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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Numbness In The Feet With Very Little Balance?

I have had two Back Sugeries Li-L2, L3-L4. I also have Degenerative Disk between C2 to C7. I have severe pain.I have had three epiderals, nerve blocks and Radio frequency Ablation. In addition, I was in Vietnam in 1968. However, My concern is that although I was vietnam where the herbicide, Agent Orange was dispersed I never was diagnosed with advanced Periheral Neuropathy until Eight years ago. My Feet are numb and I have very little gait or Balance. I was on 1200 Mg of Gabapentin for six years. My Doctor took me off of it about six weeks ago because there was no change. Iam wondering if the compreession before my Spinal Stenosis Surgery in by two Back areas is the reason my feet are Numb. Also could it be that the combination of the of Agent Orange along with the Compression In the Spinal area and Cervical area is the problem. He is now considering having me take Lyrica. Please give me your opinion. Today is 7/20/2014.
Thu, 12 May 2016
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Neurologist, Surgical,  's  Response
Hi,

Welcome to HealthCareMagic.com I am Dr.J.Mariano Anto Bruno Mascarenhas, and I am here to help you. I have read your question with care and understand your concerns.

Compression in Spinal Areas will present with
1. Weakness
2. Numbness and Balance Problems
3. Problems in Urination and Passing Motion

If you have only one of the above, we have to think more in terms of problems else where

In your case, I would think that you have Sensory Neuropathy which has to be managed separately

Gabapentin will work if you have tingling sensation or pin prick sensation, but for Numbness alone, it may not work much. Your Doctor was correct in Stopping that drug

Hope you found the answer helpful.

If you need any clarification / have doubts / have additional questions / have follow up questions, then please do not hesitate in asking again. I will be happy to answer your questions.

Best Wishes for Speedy Recovery
Let me know if I can assist you further.
Take care.
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What Causes Numbness In The Feet With Very Little Balance?

Hi, Welcome to HealthCareMagic.com I am Dr.J.Mariano Anto Bruno Mascarenhas, and I am here to help you. I have read your question with care and understand your concerns. Compression in Spinal Areas will present with 1. Weakness 2. Numbness and Balance Problems 3. Problems in Urination and Passing Motion If you have only one of the above, we have to think more in terms of problems else where In your case, I would think that you have Sensory Neuropathy which has to be managed separately Gabapentin will work if you have tingling sensation or pin prick sensation, but for Numbness alone, it may not work much. Your Doctor was correct in Stopping that drug Hope you found the answer helpful. If you need any clarification / have doubts / have additional questions / have follow up questions, then please do not hesitate in asking again. I will be happy to answer your questions. Best Wishes for Speedy Recovery Let me know if I can assist you further. Take care.