Seeking Advice on Leg Weakness and Glute Pain: Should I Visit the Emergency Room?
I am a 45-year-old woman with an athletic physique, weighing approximately 160 pounds. I'm reaching out to inquire if my symptoms may necessitate a visit to the emergency room. My medical background includes an L4-S1 fusion surgery performed in 2019, which has left me with persistent pain that I manage intermittently with Tylenol and ibuprofen. A recent MRI conducted in November revealed facet hypertrophy at L4, moderate bilateral stenosis affecting the L4-S1 levels, intact ALIF hardware, and a coccyx fracture resulting from a fall. The MRI was primarily to ensure that my hardware remained intact. Last night, I was roused by moderate pain in my glutes and hip region, reminiscent of SI belt discomfort. I experienced sharp, debilitating pains when attempting to roll over or rise from bed, making exercises like glute bridges unfeasible. Today, I had three distinct episodes while standing, during which I experienced intense, sharp pain, causing both legs to buckle temporarily. Fortunately, I recover swiftly and do not face any issues with bowel movements or urination. Due to the severity of my symptoms, I was sent home from work and took an old Flexeril along with naproxen, but there has been no noticeable improvement. Although I can lift my toes, I am experiencing some tingling in my left foot. Given these circumstances, should I continue resting at home, or is an emergency room visit advisable?
Answers (1)
4/4/2025, 4:01:23 PM
OpenHealth AI
Based on your description, you are experiencing significant pain in your glute and hip area, accompanied by episodes of leg weakness and tingling in your foot. Given your history of spinal surgery and recent MRI findings, it's important to assess these symptoms carefully, as they may indicate a worsening of your spinal condition or nerve involvement.
Main Points:
- Recent sharp pain and leg weakness are concerning, especially with your history of spinal issues.
- Symptoms such as tingling, severe pain, and episodes of your legs buckling warrant closer evaluation.
Explanation
The sharp, debilitating pain you are experiencing, especially when trying to change positions or stand, alongside the tingling in your foot, suggests that there could be an irritation or pressure on a nerve root. This can happen due to spinal stenosis, where the space around the spinal cord narrows, or due to any other changes in your spine from the fusion or the recent coccyx fracture.
While you have stable bowel and bladder function—a positive sign—your symptoms could deteriorate if not addressed, particularly since you are encountering intense pain and difficulty moving. Immediate evaluation can help determine whether there's a need for intervention, especially if there’s a risk of nerve damage.
Next Steps
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of the intensity, frequency, and nature of your pain and any changes in your mobility. Note any worsening of tingling or numbness.
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Pain Management: Continue to use over-the-counter pain relievers judiciously. Since Flexeril is an older medication for muscle spasm, if you don't notice improvement, consider focusing on rest and gentle stretching.
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Seek Emergency Care: Given the severity of your episodes where your legs buckle and the presence of tingling, I strongly recommend that you visit the emergency room or seek immediate medical attention. It's important to rule out any acute problems, especially concerning your spinal health.
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Avoid Strenuous Activities: While resting, try to avoid activities that may exacerbate the pain, such as heavy lifting or sudden movements.
Prompt evaluation will help ensure that you receive appropriate care and prevent further complications. Please take your symptoms seriously and act swiftly. Your health and well-being are important, and getting the right help will be crucial in managing your pain effectively.
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