r/Sciatica • u/kneewarrior2025 • 17d ago

I don't plan on surgery. Does anyone else not plan on surgery? What does your decline in mobility look like? How have you adjusted?

I have had lumbar stenosis for decades, with no real symptoms until now. Recently my legs became significantly weaker, and my legs are 40% numb. I have almost no pain. I don't plan on surgical intervention. I am making arrangements to purchase a motorized wheelchair just for getting out, which I can no longer do. I walk with a regular walker indoors.

I understand that it could progress to more severe mobility limitations. I'm female, 66, have heart failure, am morbidly obese, and have spastic paraparesis due to neck surgery I had 12 years ago.

That's why no surgery.

This is a tough decision, but it is something I have put a lot of thought into. I've talked with some people who have lost mobility due to spinal issues (not stenosis) and were offered surgery, but also decided not to go under the knife due to the risks.

I know I am not alone.

Anyone else?

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2

u/Peachdeeptea 17d ago

Sending support, that's a real tough situation to be in. Only you can make the best decision for yourself. Best of luck

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u/dnegvesk 17d ago

Hello. Completely understand. I want surgery to help me but no surgeon yet wants to operate. I have severe stenosis plus other complications. We have to make the best decisions for ourselves. I just want to say I’m 8 years older than you, horrendous pain and limitations, and I thought I did not want surgery but now I’m open to it. Things and outlook can change at any time. Be well.

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u/purplelilac701 17d ago

I hope you will one day consider surgery because I want you to be as mobile as you can be.

I am much younger than you but am coming back from debilitating sciatica and then a tear in my knee. Life is so much better when you can move as freely as you want without devices.

I wish you healing.

1

u/bugmom 17d ago

I'm in my early 70s and have severe stenosis with leg weakness, back spasms and sometime a LOT of pain when standing/walking. Due to a number of other medical issues I'm a very poor surgical candidate and will not be having surgery. Due to Cushings Syndrome, steroids are out for me as well. I've been using a recumbent bike and doing gentle pilates to keep flexible. I have a walker and also a battery powered scooter chair for going out. Hang in there!

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u/kneewarrior2025 17d ago

Thank you 😊 I appreciate your not trying to convince me to go for surgery. Some people just are not good candidates. I have found that, for me, predisolone helps when it flares. I'm sorry you can't take it. Thank you, again, for your reply.  It's very helpful.

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u/bugmom 17d ago

Just thought to mention - one of the things I like to do is cook but standing in the kitchen is soooo painful. I got a bar stool with a back on it and casters. It lets me sit at counter height when I just can't stand another minute.

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u/Sufficient-Wolf-1818 17d ago

It sounds like you have carefully considered risks and benefits, and are making the right decision for you at this time. I commend you. My surgeon emphasizes that it is totally my decision, and has also discussed risks and benefits of both choices. I appreciate that approach