Question
Hello, I have a large L5 herniation per MRI and complete footdrop on left
side with numb calf, top of foot, and big toe. The pain in my back is better but
I have a lot of weakness and diffuculty lifting my leg and walking. I've gotten
3 opinions. #1 said nothing could be done it is permanant, and surgery or
epidural only help pain, nothing more. #2  said do epidural to shrink disk
leakage and hopefully relieve pressure. #3  said it might be permenant or not,
but shouldn't do epidural it won't do anything.  Any thoughts on success of
epidural with footdrop? I can't find any success.  Thanks!

Answer
Can you please send me the pics of the MRI?
The epidural has risks and should be considered a second to last resort just before surgery.  There may very well be other safer options that could yield even better results for you.
Please send MRI pics to [email protected]  then I could discuss this in a more informative light.

Healthy Holidays,
Dr Arnone