I have back discs L4, L5, LS1 bulging causing chronic daily pain. On pain management regime. Mild to severe on a daily basis even with 24mgs. daily hydromorphone. With walking the last few months, pain in the right calf has developed causing limping. Extreme fatigue and pain in both legs climbing stairs. Sciatica is also present. Is there any minimally invasive procedure that could take pressure off the sciatic nerve array and help with the disc problems? Are there options aside from fusion, such as disc replacement that work well, to regain some abilities to function?
Hello, I have studied your case. Medication like methylcobalamine with muscle relaxant and analgesic will reduce pain; you can take them consulting your treating doctor. Some exercises which can be done after pain has reduced include-Spine extension exercises, lying on your stomach flat lift leg 6 inches from ground, do it for other leg. Now lift both hand and leg simultaneously, 6 inches off the ground and supposition for around 10 breathes. Core stabilizing spine exercises will help. You may consult physiotherapist for further guidance. He may start TENS, or ultrasound which is helpful in your case. I will advise checking your it B12 and it D3 level. If MRI shows disc compressing on nerve root then surgical decompression laminectomy is permanent solution. Disc replacement is more beneficial if single disc bulge is prominent. Hope this answers your query. If you have additional questions or follow-up queries then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your queries. Take care.