Suggest treatment for balance problem after spinal fusion surgery
Patient: On Oct 10th 2013 I underwent spinal fusion surgery at the l3,l4,l5, levels. Post op was good, except eversince I woke up I have had Balance issues. I canot walk independently. I must ambulate with a walker of not walk. I have been told I am improving, but I see little inprovment in my walking. Is this a fairly commom post op issue or should I be better informed. My surgeon has told me tne surgery is no way responsible for this problem. I was not nlike this pre-op. I did walk with a cain for added safety as my legs were weak and I had had a few falls, which is why I decided to go forth with the operation,being told it would stabilize my spin. My pain is much improved post-op. can you help me withj an answer? Doctor: Hello there, welcome to HCM , It would have been nice if yo had given more information like your age. However, balance problem may or may not be related to your surgery. Balance issues will need evaluation by a neurologist. Balance issues can be due to compression in some other part of your spinal cord - that is thoracic spine( balance issues only in legs) or cervical spine( balance issues in both upper or lower limbs) or occasionally in the part of the spine which was operated due to weakness in the muscles of the leg. It can also be related to issues of brain( cerebellum apart mostly). With this background I would suggest you to kindly visit a neurologist . Also it would be in the best interest to use aid while walking and avoid further events like fall.Many thanks With Kind regardsDr.Shashidhar B K Spine surgeon Bangalore.