Question 1

i have had l4/l5 fusion 2 years ago. now there are signs of severe damage to l3/l4 and l5/s1. what can i do to slow this damage down?

Accepted Answer

Comments: There was a study demonstrating progressive arthritic deterioration above and below the site of fusion, and this seems to be your issue.  Would definitely contact an expert spine surgeon but also get involved in aggressive rehabilitation program under supervision of expert physical therapy clinic.  A physiatrist is also recommended.

Question 2

l5/s1 herniation, did surgery and now the disk are fine by xray, i'm having left side of back pain and leg numbness, is it sign of other disk problem?

Accepted Answer

Radiculopathy: Sometimes back pain and radiculopathy may persist after surgery. May consult your neurosurgeon. An MRI will be a better imaging study to identify spinal stenosis.

Question 3

i have an appt for an epidural for a nerve issue, near l5 s1 i think. what can i expect at & after the appt?

Accepted Answer

Not much: Complications are rare if done by experienced doc. Mild sedation after the procedure, so have some one drive you home.

Question 4

compressing the nerves on the left side at the l5/s1 level.

Accepted Answer

: Do not know what you are asking, but will address generically.  If nerve compression exists, but pain is tolerable, no progressive muscle weakness or atrophy, lack of intense loss of sensation, conservative PT might be the answer.  But if the preceding applies, especially if bladder problems, surgery is answer.  But resend and focus upon your areas of concern.

Question 5

how long does it take for a l5 / s1 root block injection to start relief of pain?

Accepted Answer

Block: I am presuming you are asking about an epidural steroid injection of L5-S1. Usually, the steroid begins to work in about 2-3 days. he block is usually done with a small amount of local anesthetic which may give a few hours of immediate relief.

Question 6

after l5-s1 fusion i continue w/ the same diag. l5-s1 herniation, why can't it be surgically corrected ?

Accepted Answer

Read this: Do your self a favor and read a book by dr john sarno "healing back pain".
It will help you a lot.
Good luck.

Question 7

hi,im niru and recently i've diagnosed with spondylolithesis l5/s1,,i just want to know how bad is my condition?

Accepted Answer

It's quite common: and how "bad" it is depends entirely on your symptoms and the degree of spondylolisthesis.  
You should consult with the doctor who ordered the study to determine what treatment may be indicated.  
For almost any mechanical back pain, keeping up an exercise regimen (as tolerated) is important.  Good luck!

Question 8

after l5-s1 plif will i be able to proceed with normal physical activities or will i forever have to be careful and think about my back?

Accepted Answer

You will: have to "care" for your back...and a continuation of the exercises which will be prescribed after your surgery should prevent future problems Good luck and a healthy New Year! Hope this helps !

Dr Z

Question 9

i herniated l5-s1 years ago. i am suddenly getting the same pain that is intermittent. i didn't lift anything heavy. could it be herniated again?

Accepted Answer

Herniated disc: Could be! There are possibly other causes, but the symptoms could be from the same level/problem. Have yourself evaluated by a professional and perhaps advanced imaging studies need to be done to clarify the diagnosis. Best of luck!

Question 10

is a nerve block in l5 s1 safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes: These types of nerve blocks are relatively safe and simple these days. One can even opt to have sedation if you are nervous about it to make it easier.

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Doctor answers about:

Signs of l5 s1 issue

A member asked:

I have had l4/l5 fusion 2 years ago. now there are signs of severe damage to l3/l4 and l5/s1. what can i do to slow this damage down?

A member asked:

L5/s1 herniation, did surgery and now the disk are fine by xray, i'm having left side of back pain and leg numbness, is it sign of other disk problem?

A member asked:

I have an appt for an epidural for a nerve issue, near l5 s1 i think. what can i expect at & after the appt?

A member asked:

Compressing the nerves on the left side at the l5/s1 level.

A member asked:

How long does it take for a l5 / s1 root block injection to start relief of pain?

A member asked:

After l5-s1 fusion i continue w/ the same diag. l5-s1 herniation, why can't it be surgically corrected ?

A member asked:

Hi,im niru and recently i've diagnosed with spondylolithesis l5/s1,,i just want to know how bad is my condition?

A member asked:

After l5-s1 plif will i be able to proceed with normal physical activities or will i forever have to be careful and think about my back?

A member asked:

I herniated l5-s1 years ago. i am suddenly getting the same pain that is intermittent. i didn't lift anything heavy. could it be herniated again?

A member asked:

Is a nerve block in l5 s1 safe?

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