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this post was submitted on 08 Sep 2024
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54M with a L4/L5 bulge here. Happened 4 years ago.
Been on 900mg Gabapentin ever since. The bulge is non-operable as it is not large enough. I know what you're thinking, if it's so small, what's my problem? The bulge is sitting perfectly on the nerve (sciatic?) going down my right leg. Ever since, my right leg has felt partially asleep and with out the gabapentin I get a lot of lower back pain.
I have a few other issues due to it as well. Using the full strength in my right leg results in painful cramps throughout the entire leg. I don't have the full control over the leg. Walking over rough ground can be interesting, because the leg isn't doing exactly what I tell it to do. It's not enough to stop me from doing things, but it can make hiking interesting at times.
Yes, I did physical therapy. Even to this day, I still do the exercises the therapist had me doing.
I'm about 15 pounds overweight, but I am active.
This is the way I'm going to be for the rest of my life, barring some procedure being developed that makes correcting a bulge like mine safe to correct.
If the gabapentin helps, have you looked at pregabalin? My doc suggested it and it's like a super gabapentin. Much more effective, less side effects.
It's been a huge help for me... Made the difference between active and not active most days.
Steroid epidurals also helped me a lot, but your needs might vary.
I've not had any side effects from gaba, so haven't explored alternatives.
I did have the steroid shot procedure, but it had zero effect. Day to day my condition is manageable, I just won't be skydiving any longer. One hard opening and it could make my situation a lot worse and yes I am a former skydiver. So that's not really a joke.
Ahhh I feel for you and I dread my case now! Thanks for sharing