How Do You Repair A Pinched Nerve At L5 After Fusion?
An L5 or lumbar 5 fusion surgery is often performed for people who have herniated or bulging discs in their lower back, severe arthritis or other structural problems. Because the spinal cord does not feed through the lumbar vertebral region, more nerve endings exist in this area, according to orthopedic surgeon, Peter F. Ullrich Jr., in his Spine-health.com article “Spinal Cord and Spinal Nerve Roots.” Thus, there is a chance of experiencing pinched nerve pain or numbness after fusion. Recommended treatments generally include rest, immobilization, ice, heat, medication and exercise. Rest for a period of time, based on your doctor’s recommendations. Wear a back brace when you need to be mobile or while you sleep at night. Continue to wear the back brace often until your nerve pain has subsided. Take two ibuprofen or naproxen every four to six hours as needed. Continue taking this anti-inflammatory medication until your symptoms are gone. Put ice in an ice pack. Place a towel on the floo
