Experiencing Paralysis After SI Joint Injection
Hello, I received corticosteroid injections in both my left and right sacroiliac joints at approximately 11:30 this morning. Now, at 7:15 PM, I find that my left leg is unable to support any weight and tends to give way unexpectedly. The nursing staff advised me to wait for over an hour to see if there would be any improvement. Eventually, the charge nurse contacted my doctor, who suggested I go home, assuring me that everything should return to normal soon. However, he added that if I felt uneasy about the situation, I should visit the emergency room. Upon returning home, I took a lengthy nap, but unfortunately, my left leg still feels unstable. It continues to collapse when I attempt to place weight on it, and there's a tingling sensation that concerns me. I've had a fusion of the L3, L4, and L5 vertebrae nine years ago, which required a revision just four days later. The neurosurgeon informed me that he placed a screw too deep, resulting in nerve damage affecting my left side, leading to six months of extreme pain and unusual sensations. Has anyone else experienced something similar? I would appreciate any advice you could share. Thank you very much!
Answers (1)
7/24/2025, 2:30:58 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re experiencing concerning symptoms in your left leg after receiving corticosteroid injections in your sacroiliac joints. Weakness and instability, especially in combination with tingling, can be unsettling, particularly given your medical history. While it’s common to have some temporary side effects after such injections, your current symptoms warrant careful consideration.
Explanation
Corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation and pain, but they might also cause temporary numbness or weakness in the injected area or nearby nerves. The sensation of your leg collapsing and the tingling could be linked to nerve irritation, especially considering your history of nerve issues following spinal surgery. It’s important to monitor these symptoms as they could indicate an adverse reaction or exacerbation of underlying conditions.
Next Steps
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Immediate Monitoring: Pay close attention to your symptoms. Keep track of how your leg feels when resting versus trying to bear weight. Note any changes, like the intensity of tingling or weakness.
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Rest and Avoid Strain: Minimize physical activity and avoid putting weight on your left leg until you feel stable again. This will help prevent potential falls or further injury.
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Cautious Movement: When you do attempt to move, be very slow and deliberate. Use assistive devices such as crutches or a walker for added support if available.
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Hydration and Positioning: Ensure you stay well-hydrated. When resting, try to keep your leg elevated to reduce any swelling that might occur.
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Follow Up: If symptoms do not improve in the next few hours or worsen, especially if you experience increasing numbness, pain, or if you’re unable to move your leg at all, reconsider the idea of visiting the emergency room. Your safety is most important, and it is always better to err on the side of caution.
Your concerns are valid, and I understand how distressing this situation must be for you. Please keep me updated on your condition, and do not hesitate to reach out if you have further questions or need assistance. Take care!
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