Left-Sided Pain: When to See a Neurosurgeon - Neurosurgery

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When it comes to left-sided pain, especially when it is persistent and affects multiple areas of the body, it is essential to approach the situation with a thorough understanding of potential underlying causes. Your mother’s symptoms, which include pain in the neck, back, waist, calves, and soles of the feet, all concentrated on the left side, warrant careful evaluation.

Firstly, it is important to consider the possibility of musculoskeletal issues. Conditions such as muscle strain, herniated discs, or degenerative disc disease can lead to localized pain that may radiate or be felt in specific areas. However, given that the pain has persisted for a year and is concentrated on one side, it raises the question of whether there might be a neurological component involved.

Neuropathic pain, which arises from nerve damage or dysfunction, could be a potential cause of her symptoms. Conditions such as sciatica, which involves irritation of the sciatic nerve, or cervical radiculopathy, where nerve roots in the neck are compressed, could lead to pain that is felt in the limbs and back. Additionally, conditions like multiple sclerosis or other demyelinating diseases could present with unilateral symptoms, although these are less common.

Another critical consideration is vascular issues. Conditions such as a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke can present with unilateral pain or weakness, and while these are typically accompanied by other neurological symptoms (such as weakness, numbness, or changes in speech), they should not be overlooked, especially in someone over the age of 50.

Given the complexity of your mother's symptoms, it would be prudent to start with a consultation with a primary care physician who can perform a comprehensive evaluation. They may recommend imaging studies, such as MRI or CT scans, to assess for any structural abnormalities in the spine or brain that could be contributing to her symptoms. Blood tests may also be necessary to rule out inflammatory or autoimmune conditions.

If the primary care physician suspects a neurological issue, they may refer your mother to a neurologist for further evaluation. A neurologist specializes in conditions affecting the nervous system and can conduct specific tests to determine if there is nerve involvement. If surgical intervention is deemed necessary, the neurologist may then refer her to a neurosurgeon.

In summary, while your mother’s symptoms could stem from various causes, including musculoskeletal issues, neuropathic pain, or even vascular concerns, it is crucial to seek a thorough evaluation. Starting with a primary care physician is advisable, who can guide the next steps and referrals as needed. Early intervention is key, especially if there is any concern about neurological involvement, to ensure appropriate management and treatment.