HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

What Causes Leg Pain Post A Lumbar Fusion Surgery?

default
Posted on Wed, 14 Dec 2016
Question: I just had lumbar fusion L5/S1 to correct spondylolisthesis and now 6 weeks post op my xray says I have anterolisthesis of L5 on S1. I have increasing pain in my lower leg and foot. Should I be concerned?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Prof. Kunal Saha (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
Needs intervention.

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for asking on HealthcareMagic.

Spondylolisthesis is where a bone in the spine (vertebra) slips out of position, either forwards or backwards. Antero- means forward. So, your L5 vertebra is protruding out. It is definitely a cause for concern and calls for interventions. The first and basic intervention would be to see a physical therapist who can demonstrate to you the right exercises that could help. If that does not help, the next option is vertebral traction. Surgery is an option only for extreme cases.

Let me know if I could help further.

Regards
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
default
Follow up: Dr. Prof. Kunal Saha (15 minutes later)
So are you saying that this condition should not be expected to occur post spinal fusion to correct the initial spondy?? I am only getting increased nerve pain in my leg and foot for the past two weeks and I was thinking that it is just my nerves still settling down from the initial surgery - but could it be due to the Anterolisthesis??

Can I still expect the nerves to settle, or does it potentially mean another surgery. I guess that question would depend on whether the new condition is causing trapping or compressing nerves??

I have an appointment with the specialist next week, but just wanted to know if I should be worried or not.....

thanks XXXXXXX
doctor
Answered by Dr. Prof. Kunal Saha (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
Neuropathic pain

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for writing back. The mentioned problems are likely to be due to spondylolisthesis which possibly leads to nerve compression and is unlikely to settle on its own. Worrying will not help. Seeing the specialist is the right step and should lead you to intervention and relief.

Regards
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Prof. Kunal Saha

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :1954

Answered : 4467 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
What Causes Leg Pain Post A Lumbar Fusion Surgery?

Brief Answer: Needs intervention. Detailed Answer: Thanks for asking on HealthcareMagic. Spondylolisthesis is where a bone in the spine (vertebra) slips out of position, either forwards or backwards. Antero- means forward. So, your L5 vertebra is protruding out. It is definitely a cause for concern and calls for interventions. The first and basic intervention would be to see a physical therapist who can demonstrate to you the right exercises that could help. If that does not help, the next option is vertebral traction. Surgery is an option only for extreme cases. Let me know if I could help further. Regards