Answers finally!!!!!

[sledgrl]

I finally have partial answers to explain my sudden quadriparesis and neck pain in January & 13 weeks in the hospital.

Apparently the disk between C5/6 is herniated and the vertebrae appear "pointy" on the MRI and are pushing on the cord. Neurologist is sending me to a neurosurgeon for a consult now. The neuro I had in the hospital said I'd never get any function back and would stay in a nursing home long term...new neuro thinks its treatable and I've already gotten a bunch of function in arms back with rehab.

Best part of this new neurologist, besides she saying I'm not crazy, is she's still doing testing to try to find out what caused the neuropathy and progressive leg muscle weakness 5 years ago. So far she's said my spine isn't normal and that she doesn't like leaving people without answers so she's consulting with specialists in MS, mitochondrial diseases, and neuro radiology. She likes a good puzzle so I think I finally found the fit doctor.

[Bonnette]

This is very encouraging, I'm so glad that you are getting answers and your new neuro is alive to possibilities - unlike your first one! Yes, all of those conditions you mentioned (MS, etc.) need to be ruled out, since several things can be going on at the same time, one or more of which might be treatable. Clearly, there is hope for you to regain some function because you already have, and you have a doctor who will work with you. Sounds good!

[wheeliecoach]

YEA! Finding a good doctor who is willing to work to find the answer is a hard thing...been there done that! Congrats and looking forward to seeing you back out on the ice!

[SuprSi]

Hows everything going? Glad you found a decent doctor

[sledgrl]

I had fusion C5/6 4 weeks ago. Neurosurgeon showed me my MRIs that has both vertebrae and the disk pushing on my spinal cord. My neurosurgeon was the head of neurosurgery at UConn so he's pretty dang good. When I woke up from surgery the numbness was gone in my hands. Can't tell if any motor return yet because not allowed to push chair, lift more than 5 pounds or put arms above head until check-up tomorrow.

My new neurologist that I acquired in April once I was discharged from the 13 weeks of insanity is still digging through my past 5 yrs of records. She thinks I had transverse myelitis 5 1/2 yrs ago. Combined with 2 yrs of overuse of crutches & braces caused ulnar nerve damage and put me in the wheelchair in the first place. We're hoping with more rehab I'll get the rest of my fine motor and trunk strength back that I had prior to Jan.

[Bonnette]

Sounds like you're finally getting the medical care and therapy you've needed, and your rehab plan sounds excellent. Best wishes in all the days ahead - keep us posted!

[SuprSi]

cool, fingers crossed for tomorrow and rehab