Hi, Sue,

I don't know that I know what a lumbar puncture is; it's possible I may have heard it by a different name.

Though I understand that it's all pretty scary, the best thing happening right now is that the neurologist (by what you've relayed) doesn't appear to be messing around.

I've had EMGs/NCVs - also by a neurologist.

I don't know when your testing is scheduled, yet if time permits, I would suggest calling the neurologist's office and ask whether there are certain things you should/should not do prior to your appointment time. For instance, I know that my neurologist tells all patients to use no lotion.

As baby-ish, too, as it may strike some: I've always taken a small stuffed animal; not only does it help distract attention from what the neurologist is doing, it also something to squeeze if/when there is discomfort.

For me, the worst part of the testing was on one of my palms and my lumbar spine. But... that crummy sensation did not last an eternity.

Any/all of the tests you're having, chances are: Your neurologist or the doc's staff can give you information (often it's called something such as "Patient Education" or "Patient Information) about the testing.

Just don't be afraid to ask questions .

--is also known as a spinal tap, during which a needle is inserted into the lower spinal column and a small amount of cerebrospinal fluid is extracted. It is then examined for blood, autoimmune markers, and infection.

It's not a pleasant procedure, but it doesn't have to be really bad, either. It often depends on the skill of the performer, and how easy it is to find your spinal canal, given your individual anatomy.

You will be told to lie flat and unmoving for a several hour period of time afterwards, in order to avoid headache that often results from the reduced spinal fluid pressure after extraction.

Yes, I'm somewhat obese so am more nervous as I guess my flab is going to hinder finding the spinal canal. I don't think I can realistically loose any weight between then and now (hopefully it will be next week), but at least I now know (thanks to you) that it doesn't have to be too bad.

Thanks very much for this.

Sue

When I've had my testing, Sue, the neurologist has been pretty darn'd good. At the time, I thought she was just conversational/chatty or friendly. Later, I realized she was talking about things to also help distract from effects of what she was doing. It did help immensely.

Some of my doctors, and their nurses, have also told me that while in med. school, there are procedures that they do practice on one another and on themselves.

After your testing, let us know how it went for you.

You reminded me that I gained a lot of weight when I couldn't walk very well. Plus, the "flab" thing reminds me that when I started eating brown rice I lost a lot of weight... a woman wrote me about it after she read on my site about the pit.

I'm a bit tired, so I'm not sure this is tracking very well.

Thank you so much for this. I think I will take along a stuffed animal for comfort, that's a great idea.

I've also got to have electrical nerve condition tests and Pain Management as well as some other tests... not so nervous about them, its just the idea of a great big needle being inserted into my spine and then fluid drained off.

Thank you very, very much for your help.

Sue