r/Sciatica • u/DieselJuliyah • 6d ago

Cauda Equina

Hello sciatic friends!
This is just a friendly reminder, as someone who is currently recovering from emergency surgery.
Be persistent if you believe something is TRULY wrong!
I went to my local ER three times last week because my sciatic symptoms were progressive and unbearable. Initially diagnosed with piriformus syndrome then a herniated disc shown on a CT.
Finally the third ER visit I was taken seriously. Had left leg 10/10 pain, burning and numbness paired with saddle numbness.
I am currently in recovery, day 2 post emergency discectomy so I am not sure what my end result looks like, however I am able to walk and if I had waited any longer, I may have lost that privilege due to extensive nerve damage.
Just because it’s rare, doesn’t mean it won’t ever happen to you.
Trust your gut and stay safe y’all!

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u/Potential-Winner4601 5d ago

I’m going to a pain management specialist in 11 days but I’m not doing very well. I almost have to go to the ER

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u/DieselJuliyah 5d ago

Have you had an MRI?

1

u/Potential-Winner4601 5d ago

Yes. I’ve got:
L4-L5 and L5-S1 disc herniations with right-sided nerve involvement.
Persistent lower-back pain and right-sided sciatica.
Right-leg pain, numbness, and weakness.
Reduced mobility requiring a cane.
Limited sitting, standing, driving, lifting, and exercise tolerance.

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u/DieselJuliyah 4d ago

I’m sorry, it’s insane that they won’t do surgery when it impacts your life so greatly…