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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How To Detect Nerve Damage In The Spine After An Injury?

Can you diagnose nerve damage from a work related injury to the thoracic-Lumbar with possible cauda equina symptoms? Injury was 14 months ago 22 09 2015. MRI was taken approximately 7 months after injury with three bulged discs noted, mild to moderate spinal degeneration. No herniation present however I am of the understanding that herniations regress as part of healing process. My husband aged 60, at time of injury had acute pain running down both legs, pain was radiating form buttox thigh most severe in calf muscles alternating from leg to leg and intermittent. Has 100% sexual dysfunction, bowel and bladder problems improved, and appears to have resolved, but not sure. Numbness in feet still. Medicial history nonsignificant ,sugar and cholestrol on the high side. Thanks !
Wed, 2 Jan 2019
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General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hi,

We will try to help you in the best way possible. First of all it's sad to know what your husband had been going through lately.

Based on the history you have shared, his MRI suggests lesions not to be severe enough to cause such devastating symptoms.

However, the possibility of uncontrolled diabetes leading to diabetic neuropathy seems to be a reason.

Nerve conduction studies should also be performed alongside detailed detailed neurological examination of lower limbs with both areas of nerve supply be monitored for sensory examination and reflexes.

Also B12 and folic acid levels should be done and replaced if low.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Take care

Regards,
Dr Saddiq Ulabidin, General & Family Physician
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General & Family Physician Dr. Vasudha's  Response
Hi,

Diagnosis of nerve damage in case of spinal injury is based on deep history of symptoms/physical examination/MRI results /nerve conduction study by observing conduction of electrical signals. His high cholesterol suggests possibility of peripheral bursitis, which can cause numbness of extremities.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Vasudha Jayant Athavale,
General & Family Physician
I find this answer helpful

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How To Detect Nerve Damage In The Spine After An Injury?

Hi, We will try to help you in the best way possible. First of all it s sad to know what your husband had been going through lately. Based on the history you have shared, his MRI suggests lesions not to be severe enough to cause such devastating symptoms. However, the possibility of uncontrolled diabetes leading to diabetic neuropathy seems to be a reason. Nerve conduction studies should also be performed alongside detailed detailed neurological examination of lower limbs with both areas of nerve supply be monitored for sensory examination and reflexes. Also B12 and folic acid levels should be done and replaced if low. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Take care Regards, Dr Saddiq Ulabidin, General & Family Physician