[robby]

I have been reading the posts on this web site (current and old ones) for several weeks now. My husband happened to stumble upon this site and suggested I take a look. I am amazed at all your stories, good and bad. I am encouraged by the positive outcomes I see here, especially seanthefireman (for some reason I relate to his story more than most of the others.)

I am currently waiting for insurance approval for a 2 level ADR. I have BCBS and am ready for the fight if needed. I don't recall any one incident that did my back in, as I have been very active my entire life. I have had 2 micro surgeries in the past, both only "band-aiding" the problem of DDD. I have since changed doctors and found one that is not only current in ADR practices, but I feel very comfortable with him as well.

My current question for this group right now is this: Aside from the back pain, the left leg pain, the loss of leg strength, the tingling, and the numbness, I have just now (the last 3 days) started having muscle twitches in my left leg, on the inside part of my knee, pretty much all my waking hours (I may have them when I sleep also, but I wouldn't know it.) Is this normal just like all the typical issues?

Second question: In my left leg, starting about 3 weeks ago, I began having some odd stretching problems. When I stretch my leg out in the morning, point my toes, I usually can not get my foot to move from that position without moving it with my hand. I can not get it to flex back on its own. It has just recently been staying stuck in that position after sitting on the couch during the day and I can not get it back into a "normal" relaxed position until after some period of time. Is this normal also?

I am still trying to work out lightly, as much as my back and leg will allow. I also do stretching now, after reading several posts on this web site stating that was a good thing prior to surgery.
Any help would be appreciated. Your comments all come from real life experiences and are greatly appreciated.

Thank you!
Robby