[Guest]

My husband had surgery to correct spinal stenosis approximately 3 weeks ago. Prior to surgery he had sciatica, numbness and muscle weakness, all in his right leg and foot. The surgery immediately relieved the sciatica and the muscle strength seems to be improving. However, the numbness comes and goes and he now is experiencing a sensation of restlessness and soreness in his right leg that is driving him crazy. He has not been able to sleep for more than a few hours a night for over a week. He saw his primary care MD yesterday, who diagnosed this as parasthenia and prescribed Elavil 50mg. He had previously been diagnosed with Restless Leg Syndrome several years ago by a sleep specialist, and takes Clonapin for that. Even with both the Elavil and Clonapin, he did not get more than a few hours of sleep last night and is exhausted. Can you advise how long this sensation may last, what is causing it, and what can be done to cope with it?

[Guest]

It would be a good idea to let the neurosurgeon who operated on your husband know about the severe sensory symptoms that he is having. It is not uncoomon to experience pain or unusual sensations in a limb where there has been previous nerve root irritation. The Elavil is a reasonable choice, and may take some time to work. Other medications that can be helpful include Neurontin or Ultram. Good luck.
[quote] My husband had surgery to correct spinal stenosis approximately 3 weeks ago. Prior to surgery he had sciatica, numbness and muscle weakness, all in his right leg and foot... [/quote]

[Guest]

Thanks for your reply. I have passed the info along to my husband and he says he will call the neurosurgeon today. Hopefully, the Elavil will kick in soon.
[quote] It would be a good idea to let the neurosurgeon who operated on your husband know about the severe sensory symptoms that he is having. It is not uncoomon to experience pain or unusual sensations in a limb where there has been previous nerve root irritation... [/quote]