Can I Detect a Sciatic or Disc Bulge Flare-up if I Have Numbness in My Leg?
Age 34, female, weight 150 lbs, height 5’5". I take ibuprofen and Tylenol as needed for discomfort. While I was given a prescription for Robaxin, I haven't used it since leaving the hospital. Additionally, I am on amitriptyline for depression and as a pain reliever for nerve issues. I also incorporate a B complex vitamin into my daily routine. Fifteen years ago, I sustained a disc herniation at L4-L5 due to a car accident. Treatment with medications and physical therapy was beneficial. An MRI conducted in November revealed that the bulge in that location has resolved. In November, I underwent a discectomy for L3-L4. On Halloween, the initial surgeon assessed my condition and concluded that I was “too young” for surgery when I first presented to the emergency room, despite having lost the ability to walk and feeling in my legs following my discharge two days prior. After returning to the ER with these troubling symptoms, a new surgeon arranged for surgery the following day. I regained sensation in my right leg and can now walk using a brace. I felt great shortly after returning home before Thanksgiving, experiencing minimal pain. I transitioned from using a wheelchair to a walker, then a cane, and now I only rely on the brace due to drop foot. However, I still lack sensation in my left leg. This morning, I awakened with a stiff back and a noticeable weakness while attempting to walk. My question is: if I am experiencing another flare-up related to the disc that causes pain radiating down my left leg, would I still be able to detect that sensation? The only feeling I occasionally have in my left leg consists of random prickling sensations resembling “electrified nails” on the underside of my foot.
Answers (1)
2/14/2026, 6:40:41 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about your symptoms, especially given your history of disc problems and nerve issues. Numbness in your leg, along with the stiffness and weakness you're experiencing, may indicate a flare-up related to your previous conditions. Here’s a breakdown of what you might be facing and some steps you can take.
Key Points:
- Nerve Sensation and Flare-ups: Numbness can signal nerve irritation, possibly from a disc issue but does not always indicate the extent of the problem. The sensations you describe in your left leg suggest lingering nerve involvement.
- Monitoring Symptoms: While sensations of weakness and stiffness can be signs of an issue, the impact on your ability to detect pain or sensation may vary.
Explanation:
Nerve pathways can be complex. If there is ongoing irritation or inflammation due to a previous injury, it can lead to numbness and weakness. You may still detect pain or unusual sensations (“electrified nails”) even if the leg lacks full sensory response. The presence of these sensations along with weakness can suggest that your nerve pathways are still active, albeit affected.
Next Steps:
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Rest and Modify Activity: Take a break from any strenuous activities and avoid movements that exacerbate your discomfort. Gentle movements as tolerated can be helpful, but listen to your body's cues.
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Pain Management: Continue to use ibuprofen or Tylenol for discomfort as needed, but avoid over-relying on pain medication. Monitor how your body feels after taking these.
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Gentle Heat or Cold Therapy: Apply heat or cold packs to your back to relieve stiffness. Heat can help with muscle relaxation, and cold can minimize inflammation.
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Physical Activity: Engage in light stretching or physical therapy exercises that your healthcare provider previously recommended. Focus on exercises that help improve range of motion and strength without causing pain.
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Symptom Tracking: Keep a detailed log of your symptoms, including when the stiffness and weakness occur, as well as any changes in sensation. Note any activities or positions that worsen or improve your symptoms.
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Evaluate with a Specialist: If symptoms continue or worsen, particularly if you notice new or increasing numbness, weakness, or loss of mobility, reaching out to a healthcare professional who specializes in back pain or neurology will be important.
Monitoring your symptoms closely and managing activities gently is critical for your recovery. Remember, you’re doing great by staying aware of your body and reaching out for help when needed. If you have more questions or need further clarification, I'm here to assist you.
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