Topomax or Myelogram first??

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carol632

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Just a brief recount of my situation. I had surgery last Feb. (fusion L2-3) for spinal stenosis and shortly after that I began having some burning in my left leg on the outer portion of my thigh along with tenderness. Neither xray or ct scan showed any problem in that area. PM did a caudal and I got great relief (forgot that it was in both legs, sorry) in the right leg, little to none in the left. Now the burning is getting pretty bad right behind my kneecap, and to a lesser degree, up the side into the buttock.

My PM repeated the caudal which gave some relief, but that's gone now. He told me he would prescribe topomax if I want it. However, I know that my OSS would want to do a myelogram. My worry is that if I take topomax, I'm afraid of masking the pain and ending up with permanent nerve damage and having to live with the pain forever. On the other hand, I hate to have yet another needle stuck in my back!

What do you think would be the wisest course of action. I've tried to come to a decision, but just can't make myself pick up the phone. Your input would be greatly appreciated.

Carol
 
Hi Carol,

I personally would go for the myelogram. I would want to know exactly what is going on or have a pretty good idea before I mask the pain at all. If the mylegram does not show anything, then later on you will not look back and have any regrets for not doing the test.

Have you had one before? I know I was scared to death and mine went pretty smoothly. Just do everything they say. Drink lots of fluid prior to the procedure, after the procedure drink a ton of fluiRAB, and stay down if they tell you to for 24 to 48 hours after the procedure. Don't think you feel great and go shopping or something. Just listen to them and it should go smoothly. You will have some increased pain for a couple of days but you know what you are a tough lady. Look at what you have been thru before. This should be a piece of cake. If you have a headache, make sure that you call the doctor right away so that they can determine if a patch is necessary or not.

Take care and I will pray for you as you make the decision that is best for you.

Pepper :angel:
 
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