OpenHealth Q&A

Exploring Treatment Options for a Crushed Optic Nerve from a Spinal Injury

I sustained my injury while still in the womb in Argentina. My mother, who was about eight months pregnant, was violently pushed out of a window from a height of one or two stories by military personnel—this was a case of state terrorism, not domestic violence, as there was no evidence suggesting prior abuse. At that time, my mother was a history major and a graduate student, which made her a target during those tumultuous times. Born while my mother was in military custody, my injury went unacknowledged despite her visible injuries from the fall. Doctors attributed the symptoms I exhibited as meningitis, which could have been a valid interpretation considering the spinal issues, stiffness, and high fever typically observable in a newborn with such trauma. As a result, the injury was left untreated, leading to persistent discomfort caused by numerous damaged nerves. At the age of three, I was adopted and brought to the United States. From an early age, I dealt with a stiff neck that seemed perfectly aligned, and a lazy eye, which an ophthalmologist noted as a minimal amount of vision reaching that eye. Each of my ailments was overlooked or treated in isolation, while the neck damage went undiagnosed. I relied on activities like ballet and stretching to alleviate pain, although I constantly experienced some degree of discomfort. I often had to support my head against walls or my hands to ease the burden on my injured neck. Over time, specific exercises for my eye helped improve its alignment with my other eye. Around the time I turned 27, the pain escalated to debilitating levels, prompting me to undergo about four months of physical therapy in the U.S. I was prescribed Tramadol but chose not to take it after reviewing the side effects. Things worsened again when I reached 35, and the pain was so intense that I believed I might have fractured a vertebra. Subsequently, I pursued 2-3 months of physical therapy while in Albania, which relieved nerve pressure but inadvertently caused additional damage to my optic nerve. Following a particular session, my lazy eye, which had been nearly normal since age eight due to regular exercises, became noticeably pronounced, necessitating the use of glasses for correction. By age 37, my suffering had intensified, and I noticed numbness in the finger next to my thumb on my right hand. I sought the help of a physical therapist in Spain for about a month, who was able to relieve some nerve compression, but the fingertip remained numb, an issue that still persists. Upon reaching 40, I consulted a specialist in Italy, where I underwent an MRI and committed to six months of physical therapy three times per week. Tramadol and a muscle relaxer were prescribed for a month, and afterward, I transitioned to long-term supplements, including Palmitoylethanolamide and Alpha Lipoic Acid, which I still take as necessary. In my 41st, 43rd, and 46th years, I engaged various therapists from different countries, usually for a month at a time, to maintain the improvements achieved during my Italian therapy. Now at 48, I find myself in severe pain once more and am preparing for another spinal examination. While managing the pain and addressing the pinched nerves has always been my main focus, I'm increasingly interested in seeking treatment for the damaged optic nerve. Are there medical professionals specialized in addressing the nuances of a crushed optic nerve? Additionally, are there regions globally where doctors receive superior training in this specific area of expertise? I'm looking for recommendations outside the United States due to my dissatisfaction with their approaches.

Answers (1)

2/15/2026, 12:50:46 PM

OpenHealth AI

Your situation involves a complex history of both spinal and optical nerve injuries, which understandably raises many concerns about your health and well-being. Focusing on the treatment of your damaged optic nerve, it is indeed possible to seek specialized care, especially considering the longstanding effects this injury has had on your quality of life.

Key Points

1. Optic Nerve Treatment Options: There are specialized medical professionals and approaches that can help with optic nerve injuries.
2. Search for Experts: Identifying regions or institutions known for advanced treatments in optic nerve damage can be beneficial.

Explanation

The optic nerve is crucial for vision, and damage to it can have significant implications. Treatment for a crushed optic nerve can range from medications aimed at reducing inflammation to surgical interventions, depending on the extent of the injury. Specialized options also include:

• Neuro-Ophthalmologists: These are doctors who focus on visual disturbances resulting from neurological issues and are often well-versed in optic nerve problems.
• Neurosurgeons: Some have expertise in addressing issues related to nerve damage, including optic nerve injuries.
• Vision Rehabilitation Specialists: They can help optimize remaining vision and improve the functionality of your visual system.

Next Steps

1. Research Medical Institutions: Look for renowned medical centers known for neuro-ophthalmology or nerve injury research. Some countries with advanced treatments include Germany, England, or Sweden, which have specialized care programs.
2. Seek Referrals: When considering international care, contacting patient advocacy groups or forums dedicated to visual impairments can provide insights and recommendations for reputable doctors.
3. Document Your History: Prepare a detailed account of your medical history to share with specialists. This will help them understand your unique situation and tailor their recommendations.
4. Consider Telemedicine Options: Some specialists may offer consultations via telemedicine, allowing you to receive expert opinions without immediate travel.

I understand that this journey has been long and challenging, and I want to reassure you that looking for specialized care can lead to new avenues of support for your vision and overall well-being. Make sure to prioritize your health and reach out to capable professionals who can help you navigate this path effectively.