Non-Surgical Treatments for Lumbar Degenerative Spondylolisthesis - Part 2

Learn about the non-surgical treatments for lumbar degenerative spondylolisthesis. As you will see in the video, a majority of people presenting with a spondylolisthesis do not need surgery.
#thespineguy #lumbardegenerativespondylolisthesis #epiduralsteroidinjection #nervemeds #steroidinjection #spinesurgery
Dr. Brian W. Su, MD
Spine Surgeon
Chief Development and Strategy Officer | California Orthopedics and Spine
Medical Director of Spine Surgery | Marin General Hospital
Director | Marin Healthcare District Board
Chairman | Marin Specialty Surgery Center
Yelp:
www.yelp.com/biz/brian-su-md-...
Contact two locations:
www.caorthospine.com/
415-927-5300
2 Bon Air Road, Suite 120
Larkspur, CA 94939
7100 Redwood Blvd, Suite 200
Novato, CA 94945
Curriculum Vitae:
www.caorthospine.com/brian-su...
FTC: This video is not sponsored.
Disclaimer: This video is not intended to provide diagnosis, treatment or medical advice. Information obtained from this video should not be taken in lieu of your own medical provider's advice and treatment plan. Please consult directly with a physician or other healthcare professional regarding any diagnosis or treatment plan options. Content provided on this KZbin channel is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for advice from a healthcare professional. The statements made about specific products throughout this video are not to diagnose , treat, cure or prevent disease.

[@BeyondDiscoveries]

Wishing everyone watching this a nice day, and may everything work out in your favor🎉

[@jjn49772]

Are you the producer? I am a former TV producer. Your videos are simple and easy to understand. Of course much of that is due to your talent, the good doctor. But you don't get caught up in a lot of special effects or worries about video rules (Like no jump cuts). The illustrations and X-rays are on point. Nice work and thanks. You have helped me understand my situation a lot better.

[@Shelllock81]

I'm only grade 1 spondylisthesis and I feel for those further along and it's already so incredibly debilitating and painful for me. I hope you are all being cared for and heard

[@whatthe6532]

Excellent presentation. Would be very happy to have this person as my doctor.

[@andym3511]

Smart guy. You can always tell when someone knows what they're talking about - they can take the complex and explain it with simple clarity. I would be very confident with this guy as my surgeon.

[@davidbarker5823]

lol, apparently not.

[@ritastutler1470]

How nice for a doctor to realize that chronic back pain can be so depressing. I was walking three and a half miles with a friend a few times during the week and on my own for shorter periods. I am going to try and stay strong. Thank you ❤❤❤

[@hunnybunny4973]

I love how he says, it pissed the nerve off. I couldn't describe my nerves better

[@XCarfaxAbbeyX]

How wonderful! A doc who believes in pain and seems to be willing to manage pain from spondy appropriately. I was just

[@tommychang6764]

I am trying to avoid traditional spinal fusion operations. metal rods, screws, and therefore restricting movement.

[@cmbooks2000]

Dr. Su, you really have a way of calming a scary situation so that patients can listen, learn and consider what is best for them. Thank you for your channel

[@judyoneal7887]

My poor Mom had this happen to her at age 87. She had terrible back pain & so I took her to the neurosurgeon who had done a lumbar decompression a year prior. I might add, she recovered from that surgery nicely. Unfortunately, we accepted the answer of no to a permanent fix “at her age”. What a mistake that was. I guess it depends on how you look at it, but I feel I failed her. My Mom is 94 now & frankly, you wouldn’t let a dog suffer with the pain she has been forced to live with these past 7 years. Unfortunately for her, in time she gradually lost the ability to do most all of the things she enjoys. For years now she’s been unable to go to church, go out to dinner, to sit at the piano, to sit at the dining room table & enjoy dinner with the family at holidays. My Mom can’t stand long enough to brush her teeth, or for the Keurig to run so she can make herself a cup of coffee. Any activity that requires she load her spine is extremely painful. Over these 7 years her diagnosis has morphed into “degenerative scoliosis”. It’s heart breaking as she’s really healthy considering her age. Her high blood pressure is well controlled & she has no dementia. Her short-term memory has only started failing her some in the last year or so. Now her pain keeps her from taking even a few steps some days so she uses a wheelchair between her hospital bed & her recliner. She no longer leaves the house really at all. Now, it may be that at age 87 no neurosurgeon in his or her right mind would have agreed to operate & fuse her when she was 87 (that’s what we were told she’d need). But I don’t know that, because I didn’t encourage her to at least get a 2nd opinion. I really regret that. I am not saying folks should def get surgery, or def not get surgery. That is a decision that can only be made by a patient & their surgeon. I am saying if you are living in debilitating pain and are told you are not a surgical candidate, before you decide to accept a lifetime of debilitating pain, no matter how long or short folks think you have left, please get a 2nd opinion.

[@josefaeusebio218]

Yes, I am also 87 and have lumbar pain 4 months now. No to steroid injection nor surgery. No doctor would advice me surgery because of my age. Just Rehab machine-operated/assisted nerve and muscle electrical /laser stimulations including lumbar traction 3 x a week! Plus physical exercises. I improved but some pain still lingers in my groin-hip and buttocks. I can walk but really slowly with a cane or walker, careful I might fall. Will I be like this until age 94 also? I can't sit long at our dining table. I can't walk out to church or my garden. No outside parties or meetings. Can't cook or play my piano... Not work long on my computer. Only Lying in bed is most comfortable!

[@worldpeace8187]

Thank you for sharing your experience. I am late 50's & found out about 3 years ago that I have this condition. My primary doc just said well this is as good as it gets. But with videos & feedback like yours I am thinking I need a 2nd opinion as scoliosis is starting to happen.

[@judyoneal7887]

@@josefaeusebio218 I can see right where you are. I encourage everyone living in pain to seek a 2nd opinion. I did that after I was clearly blown off by the 1st surgeon I saw. It’s so important that you feel a connection with the surgeon you do see. You have to realize that you might not get the answer you are hoping for, even with a 2nd opinion - because that happened to me. However, if you can walk away with a sense that he/she really took the time to listen & understand how much pain you have & how much it’s impacting/limiting how you live your life, & if the Dr. has explained so that you really understand why he/she feels you’re not a candidate now. - well at least you’ll know you’ve covered all your options for now. That’s how I felt after my 2nd opinion visit. The surgeon was great & really explained why he was saying no, & said, “If you were my own sister I wouldn’t operate & I wouldn’t want anyone else to either & this is why….” Listen, new things are coming down the pike so quickly in this field. I’d encourage you to see pain management Dr. regularly as they’ve helped me lots. They also stay up on all the new treatment options that come up. I do hope today is a good day for you.

[@judyoneal7887]

@@worldpeace8187 oh you need to see a Neurosurgeon. A primary Doc is def not the one to treat this issue.

[@waqaskhalil9335]

Timely referral and awareness of a Rehab Medicine specialist (PM and R physician) is the need of the hour

[@adefauzia754]

Alhamdulillah/thanks God, i found your YT on my case. Thank you doc, only you suggested otherwise. I am 68 y.o. mine is grade 1 n healthy. My spine doc suggested me for ops. My pain is bearable/manageable. I take ibuprofen only when going out all day. I still can travel very far by bus, thousands miles, alone. Right now i am in therapy twice a week at a hospital in Jakarta, Indonesia. Thanks again doc n God bless you! 👍🏻😍

[@papadopification]

He is such a brilliant doctor, he speaks so well. Love that guy.

[@frankmalone8005]

Great presentation Dr.

[@mollyalptekin9185]

Good explaining the complicated subject in simple English, keep up the good work. Thank you.

[@Pankaj159]

Excellent advices , love the way of explanation. It's easily understandable even for a layman like me. great job

[@spicyspacecake]

This was brilliant! I was just diagnosed with the “spondy” (too hard to remember/type full name) & this gave me a very pragmatic understanding with hope! Thanks so very much for taking the time…

[@teresita8864]

These videos are excellent!! I did not know it was important to take aleve for two weeks. I stopped when it didn't work right away. I am scheduled for an ESI but am going to try the Aleve for two weeks before I go since previous ESI's didn't do much. Thank you!

[@sofiaaltamirano2397]

Thank you so much for the video! It has been of good value for me, it provided me clarity on my condition and hope

[@marlenetafoya5904]

Oh my goodness! You’re definitely a blessing!!!

[@clairebear1808]

I am facing adult neuromuscular Scoliosis I am in need of surgery. I am glad I watch this. Thanks

[@hildenieuwenhuijsen3736]

ohhh Dr Brian Su I just lovvvveeeeeeeeeee your information. Thank you Thank you Thank you

[@waltonesq]

Always interesting and well presented.

[@nancykram4656]

Thank you, Dr Su. I shared your video with many friends.

[@bourda2012]

Thank you for sharing such informative information.

[@preciouschristian]

👋👋👋👋👋 Excellent delivery. Thanks Doc

[@sandymenzel5355]

Thank you for explaining.

[@clairebear1808]

This is fabulous.

[@joselemus6424]

God Bless you the way you take your mom, I did it too, but in different circumstances, i went to second or third doctor opinions, and helped us a lot in her treatment, again you should be proud the way are taking care of her, 👏👍

[@kevinwatkins9027]

Good information really needed this

[@stevemorrisanamericaninasia]

Excellent review. Thx.

[@elizabethlawson8945]

Thank you for this information. I am scheduled for my third back surgery in 24 months (second fusion - this time 2 levels). It is a hard decision to make; however, you are spot on regarding the emotional toll this takes on a person!

[@simplytruth9729]

I hope things are going better for you and your surgery went well.

[@bonnieketterman6542]

This video was very informative I really learned alot about my problem how it can be treated I've had it for quite awhile.

[@maureenburke7769]

Excellent!

[@KirtFitzpatrick]

This was helpful. Thank you.

[@Predictable1]

Thank u very much for this video. It is so helpful to learn about all these different options

[@johnmitchell8925]

Thanks Doctor

[@prakashborulkar4244]

WoW...Wonderfully Simplified To Alleviate Fear Of Spine Surgery 🌺🌸🌹🌼💐

[@carolebitz3207]

Wow Did I need this!!! Wish this guy could treat me.

[@SandravsSlots]

I have this, and I'm currently on state disability from my job. I do physical labor, so that's why I'm not working. There are times when the pain is so bad that I either can't get out of bed, or I almost fall when I walk.

[@loknau743]

Thanks for sharing

[@terryschwaighofer7368]

Thank you for your videos. I have been watching. I was diagnosed with Degenerative Disc Disease about a year ago. I did therapy for short time which helped. However, I did quit when the pain got better. Before that I had been about 40 pounds overweight and became motivated to lose the weight. I started doing a work out called Size it up. I hate excersize, but fell in love with this excersize. I lost 35 pounds and then my back began hurting really bad. That's when I went to my Doctor who sent me to physical therapy. The therapist told me I couldn't do the size it up excizes anymore. I rarely cry but I did about this because I knew I would put the weight back on and I did. It sent me into a deep depression. Then this year the pain in my lower back got so bad that I can't do anything or I end up flat on my back. I went to unload my washing machine and broke 3 ribs. Dexascan showed Osteoporosis. I had Hyperthyroidism when I was 40 and got down to 95 pounds so I had to gave my thyroid destroyed. And had to have a full hysterectomy due to bleeding tumers. I am 61 now and it the bone issues started about 2 years ago. I started on Evenity and took the shots for 6 months. I stopped this month due to the cost. I'm now taking vitamin d 5000 mg. I can't take any of the other bone meds due to conflict with other meds I take for stomach and bowl disease. I feel stuck but don't want to take the shots in my back or have surgery even though the pain is severe and is affecting my life severely. I just want to thank you very much because no one took the time to really explain all this to me. So I truly thank you♥️. And you have motivated me to start with the phsical therapy again. Just wanted you to know that you are so very appreciated ♥️. I now understand it all and what I have to change. But I sure miss the excersizes I was doing with Size it up. Life isn't for sissies and I'm am lol. Again, thank you Terry Schwaighofer

[@seniour2003]

I want you to be my doctor I've been to so many pain doctors most of them are nuts I love the way you explain things and the way you speak I can understand you so well thanks for the videos Good job!! IM SO TIRED OF HURTING!!!

[@gulshanbanuhajee2116]

You are amazing. You explain so beautifully. Wish I could be your patient. Thank you for your advice

[@reginamay2767]

Vitamin d has no effect on bones. Look it up for yourself.

[@JC-gy5bh]

Thanks!

[@samirsiri2778]

Good job thank you

[@skilitzki2692]

Extremely extremely smart doctor, explains what really needs to be done based on your situation and doesn't prompt you to take drastic measures like surgery. I have a similar situation, it's Lumbar Spondylosis L5-S1. Had it for almost 13 years now due to deadlifting weights back in 2010, I just ignored it until I decided to have it checked out back in 2017 because I was playing soccer at the time and it's affecting my performance. My doctor recommended the same thing that Dr. Brian explained. I never took medication but I did physical theraphy, bunch of excercises and stretching to strengthen my core, but I'm a lazy ass so as soon as the pain stops, I just stop doing the excercises completely lol. I traveled last week to Japan and it seems like the nerve got agitated so the pain is worse this time, hurts really bad probably because we have to lift our luggage that weighs around 20lbs when switching hotels/airbnb. I'm looking forward to having my back checked, probably next month. BTW enjoyed watching your video Dr. Brian, I sent this over to my friends so they would better understand my situation. Cheers from Manila!

[@ftumi]

Also because you were sitting on a plane.. for what I'm assuming, a long time

[@geethapriyakumaraguru4090]

Excellent video

[@hanahkolailat8470]

Thank you so much doctor 🎉

[@thomasinahsu5604]

Thank you doctor! 🙂🙂

[@madhuabeyrathna1932]

Dear doctor.. Thank you very much for explaining well about the available treatments. I have a bad back pain, sometimes pain in buttocks, legs as well. I did an X-ray, results says I have grade 1 lytic spondylolisthesis in L5. However I got a call from GP saying that no concerns with my X-ray just to see a physio. Lucky I requested a copy of my results from radiologist because I know the pain I'm going through, so now I know what causes my lower back pain. I'm just 37, recently bought a house, wanted to settle down and have a family. I like to have a child. But I'm scared now how can I go through a pregnancy with the pain I already have. I used to dance a lot but can't remember a date I danced lately. I'm going to a physio since last 4 months, took anti-inflammatory as well. Nothing helped really. I feel anxious about my future now. Any suggestions from you doctor? You might not see my comment, looks like video is posted while ago. However I really appreciate the knowledge you given to us through your video, god bless you. ❤

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

Please watch the video on isthmic spondylolisthesis

[@madhuabeyrathna1932]

@@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy thank you doctor for the reply. I will watch it.

[@ajitswapnavlogs8557]

I'm also facing the same spondylothesis L5,S1 .My age is 24.I got recently married and I'm scared how to get pregnant in This situation

[@julie1462]

awesome information thank you

[@10laws2liveby]

Very good, had I been told this 65 years ago or even a month ago It would have at least shown me a path to take.

[@johnnielsen5088]

I have had several back surgeries over the year and had the misfortune of all down last week. I tried taking the Avleve as for four days as recommended in the video and ended up with bladder retention (I could not pee). I would therefore check with your primary physician before taking any of these over the counter medications. Jack

[@mariarivera8538]

Thank you, thank you 💙

[@rogersherrell]

Thank you

[@themysticmuse1111]

THANK YOU.🙏❤️✨

[@bam4827]

One of the best presentations I've come across. A bit curious if radio frequency ablation would be a viable option. I've had epidurals and they work for a short time, approximately 2-3 months. I've had microdisectomy of L4-L5 without fusion...Trying to avoid fusion because of my profession (firefighter)..

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

If your pain is from the facet joint that's possible. Please watch the facet joint syndrome video

[@XCarfaxAbbeyX]

I have RA and now Dxd with this. So far my RA pain management is covering this. Just barely. I would like to increase the cymbalta (am at 90mg) as I get about 4 hours of relief with it on board. Also, I get horrible back spasms after walking for abt 15mins.I sit down for 5 and can then go another 15. Very depressing. Two chronic pain Dxs and losing the ability to walk seems too cruel. I wanted to go to Ireland...before I die(I'm only 62)--I just don't see that as a possibility anymore...it took FOUR YEARS before one of my docs took spinal films even tho I started bringing LOWER BACK pain to their attention. I feel sad and hopeless most of the time. I guess I will go find a good spine doc for his help with this! Thank you Dr Brian...you are great.

[@marlkr3832]

Helo sir thank you for creating such an educational videos. I'm very impressed by your video actually according to my CT scan report I have been suffering from early degenerative lumbar spondylosis. I want to share my CT scan report and x-ray and get consolidation from you when you are free thank you

[@rubygrooms137]

W atched it .thanks fir the info...❤uvr appreciated!

[@user-qe3nn9zv5j]

Well presented Dr and so reassuring that I'm not terrified now You give us hop

[@user-qe3nn9zv5j]

Hope

[@probityb4riches251]

I suffer with narrowing of spinal canal. Weakness in quads and recently herniated L4L5. One thing I would add that helps but sounds crazy is celery. I hate the taste, but the relief offsets taste. 3 raw stalks in the morning. Natural anti-inflammatory are found in it.

[@morganswisher1937]

I've never heard of celery. Are you saying it helps with the weakness or the pain?

[@XCarfaxAbbeyX]

Wow. Interesting. I love celery! Will give it a try!

[@amandagarcia8307]

Great video. Can you do a presentation on thoracic spine? I’ve been dealing with thoracic issues for a year and half. I’ve had epidural injections and RFA to no avail. Currently trying inversion.

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

Yes I could do that. I would watch the lumbar facet joint syndrome video which largely parallels the thoracic spine from an intervention standpoint

[@cynthiarende2159]

My L2 is slipping off L3 so guess lawn mowing isn't good is it or would the twisting help it? Not sure ifanyine answers these. So glad I found your video, very well done & informative.

[@gomphrena-beautifulflower-8043]

I suffer with this and it is extremely painful. God bless you all

[@inlovewithkarate29]

Wow I learned so much than my own doctors who I have been going for years. I wish I had a Dr. Su near me. But I am also great full for the video.

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

You can always make a virtual appointment with me by calling California orthopedics and spine

[@inlovewithkarate29]

@@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy I will, thank for your fast reply.

[@rhesasanong7095]

Hello Doc Thanks u your excellent explain...Im in Grade 1 spondylosis...its this generous thanks.

[@kingpromise6390]

Giving thanks to Doctor Ani John is something I will always take personal because he brought me back to my full health he is a good man and trustworthy so kind to every patient, contact Dr.Ani John on KZbin channel now for help for kind of health issues.

[@gmabrenda5295]

Great presentation. I have lumbar problems. Nerve pain is crazy. Would love to know more about cervical spine problems as I was recently diagnosed d with cervical spine problems.

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

Please see my videos on cervical stenosis

[@rickbarron6972]

Thank you SO MUCH for giving these presentations. I've had degenerative disc disease and spinal stenosis for about 4 years now(L3,4,5) I DIDN'T know what the doctor's meant when they said that I had arthritis in my back, UNTIL I watch your videos. Thank you! Recently I've been in EXTREME pain and bed ridden for the last 2 weeks. Feels like I'm going to fall when I stand up. Scary. It's like chewing on tinfoil, except the feeling is in my spine. UGH! Thanks for the advice of keeping The cycle of inflammation down and on a regiment for 14 days. I was only taken 800 mg of ibuprofen ONCE a day, and only when in pain. Have had 3 epidurals that did not work. I have basically given up. Every prescription I've taken works for a month....and then nothing. Was hoping there was more advancement in turning your own blood into plasma and injecting for replacing the normal size of the disc. ( In one of your earlier videos I think you called it PRP.) I'll do some more researching on your videos to see if I can find it. Thank you!!!

[@terryschwaighofer6373]

I would too! Absolutely fantastic Doctor to take time out of his busy schedule to help others.

[@dawnmorning]

Was thinking if PRP would be used in spine.

[@SHERMAN1976]

Ojala me hubiese tocado un doctor así!! El que tengo no le da la mente !!

[@BrianHido]

Great videos. I heard you describe many symptoms such as buttock and leg pain, in your experience, is there ever a case where spinal stenosis doesn't cause pain, but can cause dyspnea and or neuropathy like symptoms? I've have back pain (lower, central and cervical) due to multiple herniations and DDD. now I experience shortness of breath where I feel I do not get full lung capacity, as well as circulation in legs, feet and arms and hands while sleeping. none of my doctors (cardiologist, pulmonologist, etc can not find the cause, but the one thing that is consistent is my MRI and CT scans all state "spinal stenosis and degeneration, arthritis and herniations"

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

Spinal stenosis does not cause dyspnea

[@frankcapobianco755]

I watched Parts 1 & 2 and found this very helpful. My situation: I was having pain in my lower left back area and the MRI revealed severe left foraminal stenosis at L5 with compression of the exiting left L5 nerve. I thought I might be eligible for arthroscopic surgery to clear some space but was informed that the "closure" is due to anterolisthesis, 7mm. Which I now understand can be referred to as Spondyloisthesis. I had xrays taken to check stability and was happy to hear that there was no instability. Based on what I saw in Part 1, 7mm does not seem like more than a grade 2. Also I have bilateral Pars defect at L5. Overall this is a issue when walking/standing for a period of time. I am able to exercise pain free and primarily do relatively light weights but high reps (e.g. 40-45lb of weight while doing squats and lunges). I don't know if this type of exercising will worsen my Spondylolisthesis but would love an answer. I am 59yo. The physical pain can be distressing but have been able to cope. The emotional part was starting to get to me, but I really have no desire to get surgery (it has not been recommended at this point) because I fear it would radically alter my physical ability to exercise. The pain med treatment was very intriguing because I thought it would not work but now I understand that I would have to take anti-inflamatory over a period of time. All in all very helpful and would love an answer to my question. Thank you.

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

If you have a pars defect you should be watching the series on isthmic spondylolisthesis

[@frankcapobianco755]

I will, thank you.

[@mtsaz100]

without a doubt the best video or explanation on this subject I have ever seen. I have seen neuro and ortho spine surgeons and have had c-spine surgery. Now I have this terrible stenosis. I have an MRI about 5-6 yrs old showing moderate to severe lumbar stenosis and I have very painful symptoms. I am so paranoid that I dont even want to get an MRI. I dont know how to deal with this- but even to get injections- everyone wants an MRI. Is this craziness or have you dealt with patients who have done the same? Obviously I will have to do something- and get an MRI- but I am very hesitant. Thank you again- excellent videos.

[@ftumi]

Do you mind me asking: why are you paranoid? More surgery? When starting this journey, I thought a 2 year old MRI was more than enough to start. Dr started PT , etc but, " demanded" a new MRI. I just figured you can see the issue, " what's the problem". Even with insurance it was very expensive. Hence, not wanting to. Finally, I did get one, low and behold, besides finding that everything on my previous MRI had worsened. They now found a slew of other things.. they found new issues in my lower back (I previously only had MRIs of my c spine and mid, my whole life).. This MRI showed my course of action should be (had 3 options ) to get a spinal fusion ( ended up getting 2 plates, 4 screws) and THAT was actually causing my debilitating pain including, referred pain. Mind you: other Dr's thought that I was a " hypochondriac " and some A DRUG SEEKER. I WAS TOLD MY PAIN COULDN'T BE THAT BAD! Just take ibuprofen and PT. Never got better. So, must be the one of the two or both. Side note: When he ordered the new MRI. He was going to do the same..c spine and mid. I asked him to write an Rx for my full back, seeing that I was going to be in the MRI , anyway. He didn't think it was necessary... Glad I insisted and did it! I "learned" to live with (worked around)certain pains in the sense of learned how to position myself etc but this put stress and damage and wore out bone of my BIG PROBLEM. This gave me the feeling that my cervical etc felt worse. But my body was overcompensating. You may get questions answered and different recommendations of action. My suggestion is to eventually do it. There can be a different treatment option. And you also don't want to get stuck in a position when you're older(as years go by) not getting treated, it getting worse, and Drs can't help without an MRI❤

[@terryschwaighofer6373]

Pain in my buttocks and legs became unbearable. seeing pain management. received the shots in my back for L3 L4 and L5. Leg pain got better but with tingling and numbness in both legs. Quality of life to me is non existant. Can't do anything without my lower back hurting more than I can take. Very depressed and non independent now which is really hard to take. Can't take nsaids due to Gerd and diverticulitis. Can't take ANY pain meds makes me throw up. no anti-inflammatory due to IBS and stomach issues. Shots were done on 31st of January. Don't see my pain management Dr until the end of February. Waiting for your next video. With tears in my eyes a heart felt ty for your video's. No one has explained all this to me and without you I wouldn't have a clue what is happening to me. Much love ty

[@Christinejs]

Did you get your surgery

[@mtioran]

Good information I wish my doctor told me this. Have had back pain for over 3 years. I cannot take NSAIDs, and cortisone injections do not work

[@docomo661]

Thank you this is super informative. I’m 35 this year and last year I started feeling chronic lower back pain, had an X-ray done and been diagnosed with L4-L5 spondylolisthesis. In the past 2 months or so I started feeling numbness in my left toes, and getting random cramps in my calves, sometimes in my sleep. Are these likely to be related to the spondylolisthesis?

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

Yes that is possible. You can call 415-925-8200 for a second opinion or you should see a spine surgeon

[@janamanning9996]

Would you consider making a video of a complete physical exam - including reflexes (DTRs, hoffman's)? Absolutely love your videos!

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

Yes I can put that on the list.

[@janamanning9996]

@@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy thank you!!

[@maryallenger9847]

My MRI diagnosis says Extensive spondylotic changes with spinal stenosis. The Orthopaedic Surgeon said I have Lumbar spondylitic Myelopathy. Can this be so?

[@deliciousfoodie56]

Salamat Po

[@junepews]

I have Spondylolisthesis, back pain. Its hurts to lay down, walk and sit. Have my first fysioterap next week. Try to lay down 90 ° but it really hurts, only get 4 hours sleep because of my back pain. Have my very first appointment with a physiotherapist next week, hope this can really help

[@hanifrahimi9965]

Hi, tanx so much. I have a discs problems. My discs have torn up in both sides left and right. Fortunately, there is not any evidence to push the nerves and I have severse irritation in that points not in my leeks. It's my question. How can treat it or it's possible to cure or not. Thanks I am waiting to hear from you Sir.

[@imaqueenfirst980]

I would Definitely Trust you as my Doctor 🤩

[@10foxylady]

Ouch 😓 I have that painful degenerative disease and I’m in pain 24/7 I have done everything and I notice more I make movements like cooking or cleaning the house more I’ve pain and stiffness and muscles espasmos; can’t sleep well either. It’s awful . I’m desperate and about to losing my hope. I wish that there were something to heel besides surgery 😓

[@knighttime19]

HGH is a great add to the exercise that you mentioned.

[@07Convertable]

Thank you Dr. Su. I've been taking Tramadol for years for my multiple issues with my back. It doesn't address the tingling unfortunately.

[@kingpromise6390]

Giving thanks to Doctor Ani John is something I will always take personal because he brought me back to my full health he is a good man and trustworthy so kind to every patient, contact Dr.Ani John on KZbin channel now for help for kind of health issues.

[@tenminutetokyo2643]

Can you do one on spinal cord loss of function in cervical spine, and what regenerative options are available.

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

I will do an episode on spinal cord compression soon.

[@michaelhaggard82]

Prednisone is know to have side effects such as eating 3 bowls of Fruity Pebbles cereal then hating yourself and never wanting to see Fruity Pebbles cereal ever again which makes it very awkward when you make eye contacted while strolling down the cereal isle at the grocery store.

[@kingpromise6390]

Giving thanks to Doctor Ani John is something I will always take personal because he brought me back to my full health he is a good man and trustworthy so kind to every patient, contact Dr.Ani John on KZbin channel now for help for Any kind of health issues.

[@christopherrussell4128]

Was anticipating hearing you discuss PRP & stem cell treatments?

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

Yes I will do a video on that

[@ritastutler1470]

My l4 and L5 is fused but I am getting some slippage even with fusion. I have a torn disc, I have severe stenosis, two bulging discs, facet disease, ..degenerative changes for sure. A doctor who looked at the newest mri said I actually have a kink that shows up. I have severe nerve pain…where the nerves can not exit . I asked a pt and the doctor and pt really thought with all the diagnoses I should do what I can at home. I have been strengthening my core and try to keep as active as possible. When the weather first changes to cold I don’t want to do anything.

[@DanSchultz-yr6ni]

Loved learning more about Multilevel Degenerative Lumbar Spondylosis from your channel and have now subscribed to your channel. Who would you recommend watching that would complement your channel from a PT perspective?

[@yogachunghk]

Thank you for these videos! I would really like your opinion on this and hope you can share some guidance. I had burning and pain on my left shin and ankle for a few months then it went away suddenly and now my calf has moderate atrophy and no plantar flexion strength against weight. I can walk slowly but once I quicken my pace I start to limp. Doctor says it’s not a common symptom (just weakness and no significant pain) but it happens and not much he can do. He says it could also possibly be that the nerve was previously compressed and now just healing. He said it takes time (possibly years) to recover and just need to keep at it at PT. I’m grateful for no pain but the weakness is discouraging. *NCV and needle EMG are normal and MRI shows I have bilateral L5/S1 recess narrowing encroaching S1 and left L4/L5 recess narrowing encroaching the left L5 nerve root] I’ve had a similar situation happen to my right side in 2015 during pregnancy. Hurt my back and had 11 months 24/7 severe sciatica. Then one day the pain went from 10 to 1 and then a light switch turned off my right calf muscle and I wasn’t able to do a single calf raise. It healed eventually but really don’t remember the time line as I was already amazed I didn’t have any more pain. To today my right calf is strong but now it’s happening to my left and it sends the weakness isn’t getting better. So any idea what’s happening? I’m worried it won’t get better and maybe I just got lucky with last time. But it seems they don’t want to treat me (two doctors) or don’t know what to do.

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

Lower leg pain can represent as isolated nerve compression. A good way to tell would be to do a selective nerve injection over the compressed nerve to see if it helps your leg pain. As a disclaimer please consult your surgeon.

[@joehoffrage]

Hello Doc! Great vids!! Wish you were in Chicago!! I have a suggestion - how bout a session on spondylolysis and associated corrective surgery involving hooks in lieu of fusion?? I had seen Dr Richard Fessler, MD, phD, here a few years back and he Mentioned that as an option if it was necessary that he had done nine athletes and 8 came back nearly 100%

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

That is an option if you catch it early and you are younger. As a disclaimer please consult your spine surgeon.

[@simhifree2416]

Hello Dr. Brian, We recently communicated, to each other, on one of your other topic pages. I told you that I'd give you an update, after seeing the back specialist. The injury is to the T-6 vertebra compression fracture. Surgery was somewhat explained to me. I'm unable to have surgery until I no longer have a pulmonary infection. Do you have any data on how RA reacts to having the Kyphoplasty? My concern is that any foreign body will be attacked because of the RA. Also, do you have any information on whether Stem Cells are effective in healing my sort of injury? Thank you very much.

[@ZacharyRobertson-yb1vv]

🤔 I appreciate the information, absolutely, but… still… not the answer I was looking for. 🙏 Thank you for sharing, Doc, but… I don’t know how to give up, so… I can’t accept the worse case scenario, not just yet… no. ✊

[@ModernDaySouljaTV]

Doctor, quick question. I have a grade 1 spondy L5-S1 and I always thought a maximum daily intake of Ibuprofen is not to exceed 1200mg? 800mg 3x daily would be 2400mg? What is your knowledge / expertise about the safe maximum limit for over the counter ibuprofen?

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

800 three times a day for 10 to 14 days is reasonable. You have to consult your doctor particularly depending on age and gastrointestinal history. Please always consult your doctor

[@bizzeymom3]

What a great video - you are the only person I have watched who gave dosing for ibuprofen. No wonder I feel horrible - I've been taking 1 Advil per day and I can't even walk. My question is: You mention calming down the nerve. Does this mean by doing this, it gives your body time or ability to heal faster? I have a PT routine but seems like nothing is helping 4 weeks in.

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

Taking the inflammation off the nerve allows the nerve to learn to live in a small space.

[@PattyBFit]

You need to go to a spine dr place because if you cant walk you have nerve compression in your lower back. You will get nerve damage if not taken care of. I had nerve compression of both legs leading to pain and weakness of legs and inability to walk. I had to get a steroid injections, fusion and decompression surgery. Also if you let this keep going it could progress to affecting the ability to control going to the bathroom. You need more than advil and pt.

[@kevinstamper9796]

I’ve intrathecal pain pump 17 years, complete DDD of spine and adult scoliosis over the years, surgery suggestion is complete rods top to bottom, past PT, RF & injections at multiple levels. Any suggestions? Not many videos on adult scoliosis, thanks

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

I will make an episode on adult scoliosis soon.

[@tommychang6764]

so will I need a spinal fusion operation? L4-5 transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion with allograft, autograft and instrumentation.

[@PhillipLearnTeach]

Great presentation. Thanks a lot. According to online medical it says not to take ibuprofen for more than 10 days, but you mention to take 800mg for 2 weeks. Suggestions?

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

It is okay to take it for 2 weeks. As a disclaimer please consult your doctor

[@nass6212]

Hi Dr Brian , awesome informative video, I am 60 yrs old male have a small facet cyst at L5 with spondylethisis and causing severe pain left lateral aspect of left leg due to root nerve compression from the cyst since 4 months ( no back pain at all) , neurosurgeon prescribed me Nuerotonin 300 mg twice daily since 3 weeks, and pain almost subsided he advice another 3 weeks and he said from his experience for opitmial results I should take for 6 months to avoid surgery, so my question is it safe to take that drug for so long if I dont have side effects besides some slight drowsiness which I can tolerate with time, thanks

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

It is safe to take the drug long-term. You could also consider on epidural injection as well as cyst aspiration before surgery. I will do an episode on synovial cysts soon.

[@berenisse1000]

I got 2 herniated lumbar disk due to a chiropractor over aggressive adjustment, I've in pain everyday since 2 yrs ago, a few weeks ago we found out trough an MRI the disk bulging, I'm doing PT and will continue there, thanks for this video and explaining how the muscles will do the work to give the disk the relive to heal and keep going 💪.

[@kingpromise6390]

Giving thanks to Doctor Ani John is something I will always take personal because he brought me back to my full health he is a good man and trustworthy so kind to every patient, contact Dr.Ani John on KZbin channel now for help for kind of health issues.

[@johngoh767]

Dr. Brian, what specific exercise can we do to relieve pain caused by Lumbar Degenerative Spondylolisthesis?

[@DrBrianSuTheSpineGuy]

I would recommend seeing a physical therapist

[@sueastrop6509]

I agree with everything you say but I take Eliquis and cannot take Advil or any Ibuprofen .