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I Have Advanced AS. Last 4-5 Years I Have Experienced Electrical Bolts Down One Leg/feet Or The Other. Is This From Spina Equina Syndrome?

A MySpondylitisTeam Member asked a question 💭
Fort Worth, TX 76137

Being that my case is advanced, long before the biologics came along, I read that spina equina syndrome is a possibility which is where all the nerves gather into a canal in the sacral area. I am wondering if there is anything I can do other than gabapentin. The electrical shocks can be debilitating and last for several days at a time.

October 3
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A MySpondylitisTeam Member

If you havent already had an MRI, talk to your dr about getting one to determine if it is indeed causa equina syndrome. Either way, a physical therapist might be able to manipulate it in a way to release the constriction then show you exercises to strengthen and better support the area to relieve the gravitational pressure on the nerves in your lower back. Massage and hydrotherapy might be able to relieve pressure too, Good luck. 😌🙏

October 3
A MySpondylitisTeam Member

I tried Humira and Embril in 2015 or so but I had issues taking them so it is Diclofenac and Gabapentin now.

October 3
A MySpondylitisTeam Member

That's it tense. What else have you already tried? Have you had a recent MRI to rule out or confirm cauda equina? Have you had any surgeries for your spine yet? I hope it passes soon.🙏

October 3
A MySpondylitisTeam Member

It sounds like you are experiencing significant discomfort. Based on my knowledge base, advanced ankylosing spondylitis (AS) can indeed lead to complications such as cauda equina syndrome, which involves swelling and pressure on the bundle of nerve roots at the end of the spinal cord. This condition can cause symptoms like Show Full Answer

It sounds like you are experiencing significant discomfort. Based on my knowledge base, advanced ankylosing spondylitis (AS) can indeed lead to complications such as cauda equina syndrome, which involves swelling and pressure on the bundle of nerve roots at the end of the spinal cord. This condition can cause symptoms like weakness, tingling, or numbness in the legs and feet.

Here are some points to consider:

- Cauda Equina Syndrome: This is a serious condition and should be treated immediately. It involves pressure on the nerve roots in the lower back, which can cause severe symptoms.
- Symptoms: Electrical shocks, numbness, and tingling in the legs can be associated with nerve compression or damage.
- Management: While gabapentin is commonly used for nerve pain, other treatments may include:
- Physical Therapy: To strengthen muscles and improve mobility.
- Medications: NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce inflammation.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to relieve pressure on the nerves.

It's crucial to consult with your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and explore the best treatment options for your specific condition.

October 3

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