So I was dx'd with arachnoiditis, tried some meds and now the Dr. wants to do a spinal cord stimulator. Is this device good for my condition or possibly going to cause more issues? I have read good and bad things. The one that came to my attention the most was that AA already is scare tissue building up on the spine so placing the leads in, around or through the tissue will cause more pain and scare tissue. Is this really a possibility and can it cause more problems?
Thank you Dr. for your response. I have an appt. on the 27th to talk to the neurologist about all this. :)
Hi!
Usually arachnoidal adhesions develop due to arachnoiditis or inflammation of the arachnoid membrane which lines the brain and spinal cord. Arachnoiditis develops secondary to infection (bacterial or viral) or inflammation (caused by diseases or chemicals injected into the epidural space) or due to chronic compression on the spinal cord/spinal nerves. With time adhesions develop due to formation of scar tissue.
This is a chronic disease with no known cure. Treatment is aimed at pain relief and involves both pharmacological treatments (pills, pain relief patches, pain relief ointments and gels) and non-pharmacological (acupressure, physiotherapy, corsets, swimming etc). Epidural painkillers and steroids are discouraged as this may aggravate the problem. Surgery usually has no role. If the pain is really bad and you cannot perform your job and the occupational therapist is unable to suggest ways to manage your jobs or other jobs for you, then yes, you can apply for disability. You need to talk to your doctor regarding this. Take care!
The medical advice given should not be considered a substitute for medical care provided by a doctor who can examine you. The advice may not be completely correct for you as the doctor cannot examine you and does not know your complete medical history. Hence this reply to your post should only be considered as a guiding line and you must consult your doctor at the earliest for your medical problem.
arachnoidal adhesions within the inferior dural sac this is the description of the findings on the MRI.
bump to see if anyone has any ideas? Thanks!!!