Doctor; Your advice to others has prompted me to reach out for your help. Your explanations are always clear and concise. I’ve suffered for over 10 months with sciatica and low back pain. It’s worse in bed in the early morning and will mostly subside after getting up and moving around. OTC meds and supplements help and within in 2 hrs I feel pretty ok. I’ve done physical therapy; chiropractic and acupuncture and injection with limited relief. First an MRI showed disc bulges and spinal stenosis. Then an X-ray showed spondylolesthesis and mild scoliosis. Doctor said it’s a big problem and fusion is an option if injection doesn’t help. I’m a 69 year old active woman. This pain came on suddenly last December and I’m struggling with what to do and which spinal condition I should treat. I would value your advice as to my next step in getting relief so I can resume a relatively pain free life.
It seems like you're dealing with a challenging situation, being a 69-year-old with a 10-month history of sciatica and diagnosed with spondylolisthesis based on MRI and X-ray evidence. Sciatica can often be attributed to mechanical issues, leading to nerve root compression or inflammation. While you haven't mentioned a herniated disc, it's crucial to identify which specific nerve (L3, L4, L5, or S1) is affected for proper treatment. If your sciatica hasn't resolved naturally within 10 weeks, considering structural solutions for the compression or inflammation might be necessary. Did your healthcare provider specify the affected nerve root? Understanding this detail can guide the appropriate treatment and bring relief. For more insights and expert advice on managing sciatica and related conditions, check out my playlist on "herniated disc with sciatica." . I hope you find the relief you're looking for soon.
@@BestPracticeHealth Yes, my doctors have indicated the problem is located at L4-L5 where the vertebrae has slipped out of place. I also have disc bulges at L2-L5; Facet arthropathy at L2-L5; Disc desiccation throughout. Spondylolisthesis at L4-L5 Grade 1. She said this problem doesn't heal on its own. The nerve and low back pain is worse in the morning upon waking. The sciatica usually gets better within 2 hours of moving around. I take anti-inflammatory vitamin supplements which seem to help. My doctor indicated if I want to do surgery it would be the Xlif minimally invasive. She indicated that surgery might not make the back pain go away but would help with the nerve pain. She suggested I try another injection sooner than later. I had an injection 1 month ago and got 1 day of relief. She said that confirmed they were in the right place but possibly another injection might give longer relief. The injection was painful as they hit the nerve and if I go for another I would be a bit anxious. Any advice you can provide would be helpful. Can I send you a copy of the MRI to review as I've seen you do on others? Thank you for your response and for the advice you provide to those of us suffering from back and nerve pain.
I had my L4/L5 S1 Fusion at Texas Back Institute in 7/23 its 7/24 and im still Dealing with pain,Bladder and Bowel issues i still have to use a upright walker because the nerves still haven't healed its a slow process because my workman comp insurance made me wait a year after i got hurt at work because they disputed my injury it that made the healing slowed,,so sir get that surgery ASAP waiting going to make it worse but everyone is different
Yeah the bladder issues and catheters and incision (from pushing to pee too hard) were terrible for me. Not emptying bladder, urologist appointments, constipation, etc sucked. So many frauds that it makes real injured people like us even w mris and X-rays and dr orders have a hard time getting workers comp. My dad bumped an African immigrant scammer at 2 mph in a drive thru line no damage to either car and he has been on workers comp for 9months like a scumbag.
Hello, What are your thought on this MRI result? Is surgery the best option? If so, what type? Symptom left side sciatica, and developing spinal curvature. Variable degrees of disc desiccation and loss of height from spondylosis. Scattered facet arthropathy. Details by level: L1-2: Unremarkable L2-3: Facet hypertrophy. No stenosis L3-4: Disc bulge and facet hypertrophy. Mild spinal canal stenosis. Mild right foraminal stenosis. L4-5: Disc bulge. Superimposed disc extrusion measures 0.9 × 0.9 cm transversely and 2.2 cm craniocaudally, extending inferiorly from the parent disc essentially in the midline. Moderate to severe spinal canal stenosis. Most of the CSF around the cauda equina has been displaced. L5-S1: Posterior annular fissure. Tiny left paracentral disc protrusion. No significant associated stenosis. Conus terminates normally. Included soft tissues are unremarkable.
It's sad to talk about... But as you lose the ability to walk and bladder control you are likely to be in bed. That puts you at risk for urinary tract infections that become frequent and then spread. UTI is a common cause of death in debilitated people.
@@Shivakrishna61 once old people are bed bound, their health and will to live goes down fast at the old folks homes my brother in law worked at. Also I can attest that having herniated discs in neck and back can make you depressed or suicidal and lots of people like me get prescribed antidepressants and antipsychotic to deal with chronic pain and loss of quality of life and erectile dysfunction (those pills don’t work, in fact they made me insane).
I had back surgery through my stomach a year ago. I have the same pain they tried a pain stimulator trial didn't work made it worse. Now they want to try another one but different. Had a emg said nerves are healing but slowly? What do I do.
Hi Dr. I’ve seen 5 surgeons. None of them have satisfied myself with their explanations which has prolonged me getting anything done. I cannot wait anymore I am getting this surgery soon but I still want to know more. How can I meet with you to go over all if my images?
I have been learning so much from watching your videos. Really helpful and insightful for what I may need. I have talked to a surgeon and have another appointment coming up with another one on the 4th of Jan. I have spondylolisthesis at L4/L5, stenosis at L3/L4 and two herniated discs. I want to do the least invasive procedure possible. I am a yoga teacher and want to make sure I can continue to practice and teach. How can I do one of these video calls with you so I can be more informed.
I feel a little better now. April 11th I saw a neurosurgeon for my already diagnosed spinal stenosis L3 L4 which developed after a spinal fusion on L4 to S1 in 2011. In 2019 my symptoms returned due to spinal stenosis at L3L4. He's told me he wants to do a spinal fusion at L3L4. I see him again April 23rd. I will get a more in depth description of exactly what the fusion will do to remove pressure on my spinal cord, but after listening to this I think I have a much clearer idea of how it will help. I do have neurogenic claudication. I can walk about 10 to 15 minutes before pain and numbness. I'm nervous to have it done, but I'm fearful not to. I'm a woman with an intense urgency to urinate and I'm usually only good for about 2 hours before I have to go again. Once in awhile I have bowel issues. I don't want to risk waiting any linger. My spinal fusion was done through my abdomin, but since L3L4 is higher they have to go through my back. I'm told this is more painful. I have to have it done. I will be 66 in June and otherwise pretty healthy. I want my life back.
It depends on the specific condition. If you are treating spinal stenosis alone, then a laminectomy by itself is the right operation. However, if you are treating grade 2 or higher spondylolisthesis along with stenosis, then a laminectomy with fusion is the appropriate approach.
My ap diameter is 6.2 at L4 and L5. I have refused surgery from fear. I am 77. You mentioned to this gentleman that he could die from this. This is something I had not heard before and I am curious what would cause death in this type of situation. Every two years at the MRI the central stenosis worsens. The facet joints are bad. I had ablation which did not help. Can you elaborate on what would cause death in this degree of stenosis? The neurosurgeon mentioned a staged procedure in his notes to my doctor. I also have foraminal stenosis. There is risk with surgery and it sound like without surgery. Thanks for clarifying
Hello Dr. I'm Mrs India and I've been on your show. I have "Bilateral Neural Foraminal Spinal Stenosis" according to my MRI written report. I'm STILL suffering from a very painful back and can't walk! According to my MRI I too have "Bilateral foraminal neural spinal stenosis!" Pleaae tell me should I go to neurosurgeon? Dr. Baig needs to know and PLEASE tell me because my family isn't ready for me to die and I must update my living will! Am I going to die? The burning of the nerves didn't work. So should I have a laminectomy for my spinal stenosis? 😢
I can't remember the last time I heard of a patient dying during spine surgery. There was one, but that was over 20 years ago. If anyone has heard different please let me know. But the clearance measure done for surgery make it very safe.
@@BestPracticeHealththe patient seldom dies during surgery. It's the days-weeks-months after the surgery that can get you. Correct me if I'm wrong but I've researched 1 in 30 spinal fusion patients die within the first 3 to 6 months post fusion
Hi Dr...Another Canadian..Could you tell me an average price for laminectomy without fusion...???.No back.pain..Just a nag of a right leg sucking my joy of life....Thanks in advance.👍🏼🇨🇦🙄
The cash price varies widely and includes the surgeon, facility, anesthesia, and preoperative studies. I don't know a reliable rate now. You can call PS&J for that at 602 256 2525 and they will walk you through it.
Hi doctor love your expertise ,I have the same problem like this man, I’d like to know the name of the spine specialist he is seeing. I live in Toronto too it is hard to get a good surgeon.and I would like to have a video chat with you how can I do it.I guess I should pay and that is fine. Please keep sharing your excellent expertise.
Really well explained and thanks , I'm is a similar situation . I've been postponing it for both physical and mental on my end . I know its a heavy surgery . L5- S1 is bone on bone , I was denied from my old insurance company 10 years ago but now its time . Implant is now out of the question for not having enough space from the front , Now I'll be having a fusion . My pain isn't heavy but like here in the video I have deterioration of the nerves , extreme tightness, also Lost a lot of muscle in the left leg and calf . Hamstrings get large knots like a baseball on both legs . I'm 54 , Super sportive . Surf , Beach Volleyball , mountain bike ect . Very active and want to be able to still train with my son who's 15 . Would love to have a chat or even video about my situation if it will help others , I'm 16 day post operation and still on the fence ? Jan 16th 2024 I have my surgery here in Barcelona . Maybe its nerves but need to go in thinking positive . Thanks for your video and great Professional input....
money making bastards. These things can heal if properly taken care of. Body is very intelligent to correct itself if given proper time. I have seen people ruin their life after surgery. They is a reason they take your consent.
What? Spinal stenosis gets worse with time. It's a form of disease. Your body does not heal it up with proper time. I agree with you on surgery... it can ruin your life. That's why it should only be done as a last resort. Oh, and I'm not a surgeon anymore, but I can assure you that being a surgeon is hard work. It's a job, and it is entirely appropriate to get paid for it.
Hello, What are your thought on this MRI result? Is surgery the best option? If so, what type? Symptom left side sciatica, and developing spinal curvature. Variable degrees of disc desiccation and loss of height from spondylosis. Scattered facet arthropathy. Details by level: L1-2: Unremarkable L2-3: Facet hypertrophy. No stenosis L3-4: Disc bulge and facet hypertrophy. Mild spinal canal stenosis. Mild right foraminal stenosis. L4-5: Disc bulge. Superimposed disc extrusion measures 0.9 × 0.9 cm transversely and 2.2 cm craniocaudally, extending inferiorly from the parent disc essentially in the midline. Moderate to severe spinal canal stenosis. Most of the CSF around the cauda equina has been displaced. L5-S1: Posterior annular fissure. Tiny left paracentral disc protrusion. No significant associated stenosis. Conus terminates normally. Included soft tissues are unremarkable.
Perfectly on point. I was delighted to hear 80% after three weeks!
Doctor; Your advice to others has prompted me to reach out for your help. Your explanations are always clear and concise. I’ve suffered for over 10 months with sciatica and low back pain. It’s worse in bed in the early morning and will mostly subside after getting up and moving around. OTC meds and supplements help and within in 2 hrs I feel pretty ok. I’ve done physical therapy; chiropractic and acupuncture and injection with limited relief. First an MRI showed disc bulges and spinal stenosis. Then an X-ray showed spondylolesthesis and mild scoliosis. Doctor said it’s a big problem and fusion is an option if injection doesn’t help. I’m a 69 year old active woman. This pain came on suddenly last December and I’m struggling with what to do and which spinal condition I should treat. I would value your advice as to my next step in getting relief so I can resume a relatively pain free life.
It seems like you're dealing with a challenging situation, being a 69-year-old with a 10-month history of sciatica and diagnosed with spondylolisthesis based on MRI and X-ray evidence. Sciatica can often be attributed to mechanical issues, leading to nerve root compression or inflammation. While you haven't mentioned a herniated disc, it's crucial to identify which specific nerve (L3, L4, L5, or S1) is affected for proper treatment.
If your sciatica hasn't resolved naturally within 10 weeks, considering structural solutions for the compression or inflammation might be necessary. Did your healthcare provider specify the affected nerve root? Understanding this detail can guide the appropriate treatment and bring relief.
For more insights and expert advice on managing sciatica and related conditions, check out my playlist on "herniated disc with sciatica." . I hope you find the relief you're looking for soon.
@@BestPracticeHealth Yes, my doctors have indicated the problem is located at L4-L5 where the vertebrae has slipped out of place. I also have disc bulges at L2-L5; Facet arthropathy at L2-L5; Disc desiccation throughout. Spondylolisthesis at L4-L5 Grade 1. She said this problem doesn't heal on its own. The nerve and low back pain is worse in the morning upon waking. The sciatica usually gets better within 2 hours of moving around. I take anti-inflammatory vitamin supplements which seem to help. My doctor indicated if I want to do surgery it would be the Xlif minimally invasive. She indicated that surgery might not make the back pain go away but would help with the nerve pain. She suggested I try another injection sooner than later. I had an injection 1 month ago and got 1 day of relief. She said that confirmed they were in the right place but possibly another injection might give longer relief. The injection was painful as they hit the nerve and if I go for another I would be a bit anxious. Any advice you can provide would be helpful. Can I send you a copy of the MRI to review as I've seen you do on others? Thank you for your response and for the advice you provide to those of us suffering from back and nerve pain.
Oh thank God for you Dr. Lieberman. 🙏🏾
I had my L4/L5 S1 Fusion at Texas Back Institute in 7/23 its 7/24 and im still Dealing with pain,Bladder and Bowel issues i still have to use a upright walker because the nerves still haven't healed its a slow process because my workman comp insurance made me wait a year after i got hurt at work because they disputed my injury it that made the healing slowed,,so sir get that surgery ASAP waiting going to make it worse but everyone is different
Yeah the bladder issues and catheters and incision (from pushing to pee too hard) were terrible for me. Not emptying bladder, urologist appointments, constipation, etc sucked. So many frauds that it makes real injured people like us even w mris and X-rays and dr orders have a hard time getting workers comp. My dad bumped an African immigrant scammer at 2 mph in a drive thru line no damage to either car and he has been on workers comp for 9months like a scumbag.
Excellent! I needed these truths. I have learned that I have no choice but to have this surgery.
here too.
Hello, What are your thought on this MRI result? Is surgery the best option? If so, what type? Symptom left side sciatica, and developing spinal curvature.
Variable degrees of disc desiccation and loss of height from spondylosis. Scattered facet arthropathy. Details by level:
L1-2: Unremarkable
L2-3: Facet hypertrophy. No stenosis
L3-4: Disc bulge and facet hypertrophy. Mild spinal canal stenosis.
Mild right foraminal stenosis.
L4-5: Disc bulge. Superimposed disc extrusion measures 0.9 × 0.9 cm transversely and 2.2 cm
craniocaudally, extending inferiorly from
the parent disc essentially in the midline. Moderate to severe spinal canal stenosis. Most of the CSF around the cauda equina has been displaced.
L5-S1: Posterior annular fissure. Tiny left paracentral disc protrusion. No significant associated stenosis.
Conus terminates normally.
Included soft tissues are unremarkable.
Why does the Doctor say that Spinal stenosis could kill this gentleman? How?
I wonder about this as well?😮
It's sad to talk about... But as you lose the ability to walk and bladder control you are likely to be in bed. That puts you at risk for urinary tract infections that become frequent and then spread. UTI is a common cause of death in debilitated people.
@@BestPracticeHealth If we timely void with the help of CIC then we don't have any UTI problem
@@Shivakrishna61 once old people are bed bound, their health and will to live goes down fast at the old folks homes my brother in law worked at. Also I can attest that having herniated discs in neck and back can make you depressed or suicidal and lots of people like me get prescribed antidepressants and antipsychotic to deal with chronic pain and loss of quality of life and erectile dysfunction (those pills don’t work, in fact they made me insane).
I had back surgery through my stomach a year ago. I have the same pain they tried a pain stimulator trial didn't work made it worse. Now they want to try another one but different. Had a emg said nerves are healing but slowly? What do I do.
Figure out why you are still having pain. Often, it's the facet joints in the back after a fusion from the front.
Hi Dr. I’ve seen 5 surgeons. None of them have satisfied myself with their explanations which has prolonged me getting anything done. I cannot wait anymore I am getting this surgery soon but I still want to know more. How can I meet with you to go over all if my images?
Cute baby picture! Are they yours? Drop you question at BestPracticehHealth.tv and we will get you on the show. I'll look forward to meeting you!
I have been learning so much from watching your videos. Really helpful and insightful for what I may need. I have talked to a surgeon and have another appointment coming up with another one on the 4th of Jan. I have spondylolisthesis at L4/L5, stenosis at L3/L4 and two herniated discs. I want to do the least invasive procedure possible. I am a yoga teacher and want to make sure I can continue to practice and teach. How can I do one of these video calls with you so I can be more informed.
Thanks for watching! To be on the show submit a question to www.bestpracticehealth.tv. I'll look forward to meeting you!
I have submitted a video and my MRI. hopefully we will meet soon.@@BestPracticeHealth
I feel a little better now. April 11th I saw a neurosurgeon for my already diagnosed spinal stenosis L3 L4 which developed after a spinal fusion on L4 to S1 in 2011. In 2019 my symptoms returned due to spinal stenosis at L3L4. He's told me he wants to do a spinal fusion at L3L4. I see him again April 23rd. I will get a more in depth description of exactly what the fusion will do to remove pressure on my spinal cord, but after listening to this I think I have a much clearer idea of how it will help. I do have neurogenic claudication. I can walk about 10 to 15 minutes before pain and numbness. I'm nervous to have it done, but I'm fearful not to. I'm a woman with an intense urgency to urinate and I'm usually only good for about 2 hours before I have to go again. Once in awhile I have bowel issues. I don't want to risk waiting any linger. My spinal fusion was done through my abdomin, but since L3L4 is higher they have to go through my back. I'm told this is more painful. I have to have it done. I will be 66 in June and otherwise pretty healthy. I want my life back.
The issues we face, the decisions we have to make. This is not easy. Best wishes. Auckland NZ.
How acute is the stenosis to go for operation..?
It depends on your symptoms. If there are no bowel or bladder issue, then weeks to months.
I have spinal stenosis operation soon
My doctor wants to do a decompression and fusion. Couldn't I just get a laminectomy?
It depends on the specific condition. If you are treating spinal stenosis alone, then a laminectomy by itself is the right operation. However, if you are treating grade 2 or higher spondylolisthesis along with stenosis, then a laminectomy with fusion is the appropriate approach.
Is there a web source to find the best doctors in my area for lumbar surgery??
Out goal is to have them up on Bestpracticehealth.tv soon. Until then, call my office (602) 256 2525 and as Phebe for help.
My ap diameter is 6.2 at L4 and L5. I have refused surgery from fear. I am 77. You mentioned to this gentleman that he could die from this. This is something I had not heard before and I am curious what would cause death in this type of situation. Every two years at the MRI the central stenosis worsens. The facet joints are bad. I had ablation which did not help. Can you elaborate on what would cause death in this degree of stenosis? The neurosurgeon mentioned a staged procedure in his notes to my doctor. I also have foraminal stenosis. There is risk with surgery and it sound like without surgery. Thanks for clarifying
Hello Dr. I'm Mrs India and I've been on your show. I have "Bilateral Neural Foraminal Spinal Stenosis" according to my MRI written report. I'm STILL suffering from a very painful back and can't walk! According to my MRI I too have "Bilateral foraminal neural spinal stenosis!" Pleaae tell me should I go to neurosurgeon? Dr. Baig needs to know and PLEASE tell me because my family isn't ready for me to die and I must update my living will! Am I going to die? The burning of the nerves didn't work. So should I have a laminectomy for my spinal stenosis? 😢
I can't remember the last time I heard of a patient dying during spine surgery. There was one, but that was over 20 years ago. If anyone has heard different please let me know. But the clearance measure done for surgery make it very safe.
@@BestPracticeHealththe patient seldom dies during surgery. It's the days-weeks-months after the surgery that can get you. Correct me if I'm wrong but I've researched 1 in 30 spinal fusion patients die within the first 3 to 6 months post fusion
Dead in a year is a little extreme of a diagnosis off of a five minute video call and looking at his MRI I wouldn’t take this guy advice at all issue
"Dead in a year" is not a diagnosis. But thanks for watching.
Hi Dr...Another Canadian..Could you tell me an average price for laminectomy without fusion...???.No back.pain..Just a nag of a right leg sucking my joy of life....Thanks in advance.👍🏼🇨🇦🙄
The cash price varies widely and includes the surgeon, facility, anesthesia, and preoperative studies. I don't know a reliable rate now. You can call PS&J for that at 602 256 2525 and they will walk you through it.
In Canada it is covered by ohip
Hi doctor love your expertise ,I have the same problem like this man, I’d like to know the name of the spine specialist he is seeing. I live in Toronto too it is hard to get a good surgeon.and I would like to have a video chat with you how can I do it.I guess I should pay and that is fine. Please keep sharing your excellent expertise.
HI! Thanks for the note. My assistant can set you up to be on the show for a video chat. Please call her at 602 256 2525. Phoebe.
Disk replacement would be superior to laminectomy ? No
Laminectomy is for stenosis. Disc replacement is for discogenic pain. Different treatments for different conditions.
Really well explained and thanks , I'm is a similar situation . I've been postponing it for both physical and mental on my end . I know its a heavy surgery . L5- S1 is bone on bone , I was denied from my old insurance company 10 years ago but now its time . Implant is now out of the question for not having enough space from the front , Now I'll be having a fusion . My pain isn't heavy but like here in the video I have deterioration of the nerves , extreme tightness, also Lost a lot of muscle in the left leg and calf . Hamstrings get large knots like a baseball on both legs . I'm 54 , Super sportive . Surf , Beach Volleyball , mountain bike ect . Very active and want to be able to still train with my son who's 15 . Would love to have a chat or even video about my situation if it will help others , I'm 16 day post operation and still on the fence ? Jan 16th 2024 I have my surgery here in Barcelona . Maybe its nerves but need to go in thinking positive . Thanks for your video and great Professional input....
You are so welcome! Hang in there. If you want to chat feel free to submit a questions on BestPracticeHealth.tv.
Wow!
THIS CHARACTER NEEDS HIS LICENSE REVOKED. IS HE FOR REAL?
He is a former neurosurgeon. What is the problem? I don't see one.
money making bastards. These things can heal if properly taken care of. Body is very intelligent to correct itself if given proper time. I have seen people ruin their life after surgery. They is a reason they take your consent.
What? Spinal stenosis gets worse with time. It's a form of disease. Your body does not heal it up with proper time. I agree with you on surgery... it can ruin your life. That's why it should only be done as a last resort. Oh, and I'm not a surgeon anymore, but I can assure you that being a surgeon is hard work. It's a job, and it is entirely appropriate to get paid for it.
Hello, What are your thought on this MRI result? Is surgery the best option? If so, what type? Symptom left side sciatica, and developing spinal curvature.
Variable degrees of disc desiccation and loss of height from spondylosis. Scattered facet arthropathy. Details by level:
L1-2: Unremarkable
L2-3: Facet hypertrophy. No stenosis
L3-4: Disc bulge and facet hypertrophy. Mild spinal canal stenosis.
Mild right foraminal stenosis.
L4-5: Disc bulge. Superimposed disc extrusion measures 0.9 × 0.9 cm transversely and 2.2 cm
craniocaudally, extending inferiorly from
the parent disc essentially in the midline. Moderate to severe spinal canal stenosis. Most of the CSF around the cauda equina has been displaced.
L5-S1: Posterior annular fissure. Tiny left paracentral disc protrusion. No significant associated stenosis.
Conus terminates normally.
Included soft tissues are unremarkable.