1st surg lumbar fusion 6 yrs ago. Last year all hardware removed and extended to T-10. T-10 fx, repeat surg to T-6. Now left lower quad extending from back to front, numbness, pressure, bowel involvement feels like trying to move basketball through process. No pain so to speak but extreme pressure, weakness and feeling like I am being pulled down through that area. Affects ability to support torso and remain upright. Any help?

I want to welcome you to Neruo Talk. I am sorry to hear of all the problems after your revision of the surgery. I have cervical issues, and two surgeries to correct it too. I know what you have been through. If this is effecting your normal physical ability to sit upright, and are having trouble in your lower area, I would get back to the doctor. The hardware you have inside could accidently move and put pressure on something. You need to have that ruled out. My doctor is always pushing and prodding the hardware I have in my neck, and checking to see if anything negative is happening. Get examined to be on the safe side. These surgeries, especially the more hardware they put in, the more it should be kept track of. This is what I would do, if something didn't feel right. I do wish you all the best. This site should have others, that will help you with ideas. I hope there is a good resolution for you. ginnie

dear scott
there are several methods out there
always ask your doctor
turns out 5 apples a day does a good job
there are natural herb tea drink before bed
always talk to your doctor
best wishes

While my fusion is in the spine area, I do have that terrible bowel movement pressure. Since I started taking a couple of tablespoons of Phillips Milk of Magnesia frequently; that really has helped some of the pressure and elminiated the "basketball process".

Ginnie is right about seeing your doctor because of the difficulty in supporting the torso.

(Ger)

Thanks for all your interest. I am just approaching my one year appointment with my surgeon who has been following my closely. I also have had an extensive workup by a Gastroenterologist in whom I have alot of faith. He determned that I have adhesions in the pelvic area. My bowel is pushed to the left side of the pelvic area. I also have diverticulosis. I am concerned that I may have nerve damage causing the weakness and malfunction of the bowel. I am able to walk short distances without a cane but my core muscles are weak even after having physical therapy for the last year. Any one have had similar problems?

I previously had Cystocele surgery (bladder) which as a result the lower bowel had space now to come down. I did have Rectocele surgery about two years ago to move the lower bowel back in place.

These are surgeries women have; but there is some similiarity because of the lower bowel causing buldge and presssure. Unfortunately, the lower bowel is starting to return (Rectocele) which may result in additional surgery. It does seem muscle problems will be an issue as well.

Although I can walk some without a cane, I do use one when I go out. It does straighten my body and also relieves some of the added pressure. You might want to try using the cane. I do feel the difference.
(Ger)