(no subject)

Dear Geoffrey,

My father ( Julian) suggested I email you with regards to the ongoing issue with my back after you so kindly forwarded contact details of US lumbar specialists.

In the Summer of 2015, up until January of 2016, I suffered from chronic back pain caused by a couple of horse riding falls, but no neural symptoms. 1 mid-january I had a tingling down the back of my thigh on my left leg which brought on terrible sciatica. I did visit a physio therapist who confirmed that I had a slipped disc, however, I was in the final year of university and tried to focus on my studies. The sciatica did not subside and in March '16 I realised that my leg was becoming increasingly numb and I had foot-drop. Towards the end of April '16, few other symptoms caused me to see another specialist who suggested I go to hospital immediately since my neurological examination pointed to potential micro-disectomy cauda equina. At this level, an MRI confirmed that my 15/51 disc was badly prolapsed. Very soon after I had a

A few days after the operation the sciatica and numbness persisted. Since the prolapse was pronounced my surgeon suggested that significant time was needed in order to allow the nerves to heal. In September '16, I had a steroid injection since the sciatica remained. The injection failed to work at all, therefore, my surgeon decided to go ahead with a second MRI. The MRI showed that there was some scar tissue at the LS/S1 level and possible re-herniation. He considered fusion, however, the 14/15 level looked weak (- he did consider whether this disc may also be contributing to the sciatica).

In November '16 I received an extended decompression at the L5/51 and 14/5 level. Following the operation, the sciatica returned 2 weeks later and has since persisted until now. I am yet to have an MRI following the most recent operation.

I hope this medical saga all makes sense! I know you have been a good friend of daddy's for many years and I am very grateful for your advice.

Many thanks,

Mimi Leese