Case Summary  |  Herniated Disc with severe and constant dual leg sciatica

Car accident resulted in a severely heriniated disc at L5 S1 completely compressing the spinal cord and both sciatic nerves. Constant severe pain in both legs to the feet, and numb toes resulted. Treatment initially consisted of anti-inflamatories, ice, muscle relaxants, pain medications and physical therapy. Degenerative disc disease was discovered as well. As pain continued and severity increased, three cortical steroid injections were given over a period of one year, and physical therapy continued. Pain medications were increased from norco, to percocet, to oxycontin to fentanyl to combat increasing and uncontrollable pain. All treatments failed. Surgeons in the Sacramento area recommended complete disc replacement. Due to the side effects, I sought alternative treatment, and ultimately underwent an LED procedure from Dr. Stanton Schiffer in Fremont, California. This treatment resolved the sciatica immediately. Occasional low back pain (almost a soreness or stiffness as opposed to actual pain) still occurs occasionally. However, functionality has completely returned and I am able to walk, bicycle, swim, participate in yoga, and stretch. Occasional soreness/ light pain is usually resolved with ice and/or an anti-inflammatory, and is completely tolerable. Seems to get increasingly better over time, and I was able to successfully jog again begining this year. Keeping up with core strengthening exercises is extremely helpful, and decreases occurences of occasional pain. All in all an excellent result! Very happy!!!!!!!!!