How to cure a persistent six-year-long lower back pain which radiates to the legs?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a female, 38 years old, and married. I have suffered from lower back pain (slipped disc and sciatica) for the last six years. The pain has become unbearable now from the lower back to the toe of my left leg. My right leg gets numb if I stand for more than 3 to 5 minutes. My first MRI report (7 years ago) shows I had slipped discs L4-L5 and L5-S1. My recent MRI (a week ago) shows the same thing. I consulted a few doctors. Most of them suggested surgery. A couple of them suggested rest for 15 to 20 days with medicines. I am unable to do complete rest or surgery. Please suggest other alternatives to remove the pain as soon as possible. The pain is unbearable now. Currently, I take Vovo SR tablet, Tramore plus tablet, and Pregacip M capsule.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

You are suffering from cauda equina syndrome due to lumbar disc prolapse. You also may have compression of nerve roots of L4, L5, and S1 leading to severe pain along the medial leg and lateral leg with foot area. Until you get relief by decompressing it through surgery, it is difficult to control with medicine.

You can use a lower dose of tricyclic antidepressants like the tablet Nortriptyline 25 mg twice a day after consulting a specialist and with their consent. You can increase the dose of Pregacip M (Methylcobalamin and Pregabalin) to twice a day. Physiotherapy will be useful. If symptoms do not improve, please consult your doctor; he will examine and treat you accordingly.

Take care.