On My Nerves

While the symptoms I have been experiencing since 2004 could be caused by my spinal problems and the arthritis, a new possibility popped up while seeing the six specialists. It was the opinion of three of the five had I seen that I might have peripheral neuropathy: a neurological problem that results in constant (sometimes severe) pain in the legs (or arms) with no determinable cause. Many things can cause neuropathy. Most often Diabetes is the cause, but I was tested and diabetes was ruled out.

The neurologist I was consulting with conducted an EMG test on my legs, but the results didn't show any permanent nerve damage. However, at the recommendation of my orthopedic surgeon and neurologist I consulted with a neurosurgeon about my spine. He examined me to see if my spine was causing the pain but determined that my spinal problems were not yet severe enough. However, based on my symptoms and a sensory examination diagnosed me with peripheral neuropathy as well as definite areflexia. Areflexia is a loss of the "knee jerk" reaction that happens when a doctor hits your knees and ankles with that funky rubber mallet.

Shit, I was freaked out! Not only did I have the bone problems, but it looked likely I was confronting neurological trouble as well. The neurosurgeon told me that although the EMG didn't conclusively prove neuropathy, I had all the classic signs. On top of that, EMG tests often times don't reveal neuropathy.

Bottom line: I was seriously messed up. At age 38 I had a body more broken than someone twice my age!

Realizing now that if my immediate problems were likely connected to neuropathy my only viable option was pain management. Although surgery could correct at least one of my spinal problems it was absolutely no guarantee of pain relief. And considering I had already gone through at least two major surgeries either, of which, could likely be a cause for neuropathy and the inherent dangers of any back procedure, I decided not to get surgery.