Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

Small Disc Herniation Causing Numbness, Weakness In Legs. Consider Surgery? Prognosis?

I have a small left para enteral disc herniation at T8-T9 that abuts the ventral aspect of the cord which is remodeled but not frankly compressed. This is a chronic condition with mild leg symptoms of numbness on the left and weakness on the right. I am in constant mild discomfort with dextroscoliosis and increasing thoracic kyphosis . Should I consider surgery? At age 57 I am worried about long term prognosis with this condition. Your thoughts?
Mon, 3 Sep 2012
Report Abuse
General & Family Physician 's  Response
Dear customer,

The disc herniation if causing severe symptoms or any neurological deficit then the surgical option should be considered.

In mild degree of herniation not causing severe symptoms or deficit, the pain killers drugs and precaution by using lumbar belt and avoiding heavy weight lifting is helpful in controlling the symptoms.

You should have the mri scan done and consult the neurosurgeon for the available treatment
options.If the symptoms are mild you may avoid the surgery for the time being.

thank you
I find this answer helpful

Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 

Recent questions on Thoracic kyphosis


Loading Online Doctors....
Small Disc Herniation Causing Numbness, Weakness In Legs. Consider Surgery? Prognosis?

Dear customer, The disc herniation if causing severe symptoms or any neurological deficit then the surgical option should be considered. In mild degree of herniation not causing severe symptoms or deficit, the pain killers drugs and precaution by using lumbar belt and avoiding heavy weight lifting is helpful in controlling the symptoms. You should have the mri scan done and consult the neurosurgeon for the available treatment options.If the symptoms are mild you may avoid the surgery for the time being. thank you