Proximal neuropathy revisited

[HpprKM]

Some months ago I posted on the above topic, since then I have seen my GP, whom I normally have good faith in - she is very approachable and reasonable to my suggestions and concerns, however, she immediately told me that proximal neuropathy of the hip (commonly called sciatica) always affects both sides, mine is one sided to date, but much of what I have read suggests otherwise. I did not like to challenge her on this, she did a few tests my asking me to move in certain ways and she found a point in my lower back which seemed to pin point area of source of pain. Then she gave me an exercise sheet, which quite frankly I found to be quite futile. Recently the pain has come back and I also have noticed that when crouching down (ie to reach in fridge) I need to hold on to something to lever myself up again, not because of pain, but my legs just do not seem to have the strength to lift myself. Feet often feel very cold, and burning - sometimes fronts of them and shins feel like (as someone else posted) hot water is being poured down them. I saw the Diabetic nurse for my yearly check, she found no problem with the pin prick test, I can feel in my feet but that does not detract from the sensations I have in them. Still feeling this is a diabetic problems, as it seems to fit, the pain is definitely a nerve pain, or akin to toothache in the leg as I describe it. Anyone have similar experiences? Also, there was a lady who said she found some pain relief from US if she reads this maybe can get in touch for more information please?
Wishing you all well - we are all in this together

 

[HpprKM]

Just wanted to add that my meeting with Diabetic nurse did not get off to a good start, this I covered in another post, however, it ended on a friendlier note (some people felt I should have reported her for the way she treated me), however, that aside, I have just thought about this, although she did the foot checks she did not trouble to ask me very much about any problems I might be experiencing. I did mention the leg pain, and that I had seen the GP, she told me that pilates would help - any thoughts on this idea please? Also, although I have had to get a further blood test as GP was a little concerned on kidney results - but otherwise results were acceptable.

 

[viviennem]

Google 'lumbar spinal stenosis' and see if any of that sounds familiar.

I was diagnosed with it this summer, after 25 years of lower back pain getting increasingly worse, and that same 'weak leg' sensation you describe.

I had a flare-up this summer - bad back pain, right hip feeling as if it had a red-hot skewer through it, right front thigh muscle in permanent cramp for 7 weeks :shock: , right shin completely numb. It was almost worth it 'cos I threw a hissy fit over my GP and got referred to the Spinal Rehab Unit and therefore the diagnosis. Apparently it's very difficult for a GP to diagnose but the Senior Physio got it in one!

It's caused by the bones of the lumbar vertebrae pinching the nerves as they come out of the spine into your legs, often from osteoarthritic-type overgrowth of bone. I may also have a bulging disc - should be getting the results of an MRI scan in a couple of weeks.

If it keeps on, ask to be referred to a physio or orthopaedic surgeon to rule out lower spine problems.

Good luck, and let us know what happens.

Viv 8)



Also, if you google sciatica you'll find you're quite right - it can be one-sided!

 

[Unbeliever]

Pilates helps with many things , disc problems or anything concerning the lower back. It strengthens the muscles responsible for many disorders.

My daughter was diagnosed wih sciatica at the age of 17. It was only on one side.but affected her leg right down to the foot. It caused really bad eczema too - constantly bleeding - because the blood was unable to circulate..

We had to pay privately in the end to try to get a proper diagnosis. Pay we cetainly did, orthopaedic consultant MRI etc but only when she saw the {private} physio did we find that she has a tilted pelvis which makes her a litle uneven. She has paid a fortune to chiros etc which does work for relieving bad episodes ie by relaxing the muscles but she has ensure hat she keeps up with the pilates to prevent recurrences.

 

[HpprKM]

Thanks all for your replies, wow, some of you are really suffering and mine seems like so little in comparison! However, it does hurt and cause discomfort and I will definitely follow up if there is no improvement.