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Phil, you hit on something that the chiro and I discussed just this
morning. How does one tell between TM and an injury? The MD
diagnosed TM with an MRI supporting it, but the chiropractor thinks I
injured my back. What is TM. . .a condition or a set of variable
symptoms? I get so confused. I believe the doctor's diagnosis of TM,
but I also agree with the chiro that hopping around barefoot on a hot
deck while snatching up my niece had something to do with it. I feel
like some understanding is eluding me.
Second question that came up today. . .I haven't seen the doctor
since last September when TM was finally diagnosed. He was (is) a
jerk so I haven't wanted to return. However, in the normal course of
things is there usually a follow-up MRI to check progress? Or is
progress just measured in terms of improved symptoms?
Thanks much.
Jane D >>
Hi Jane,
An inflammation of the spinal cord is considered to be TM, when it results
in nuerologic symptoms. The cause(for the inflammation) can be found or not
found. Several autoimmune diseases can have nuerologic manifestations,with TM
being the result. Even inadequate blood flow in vessels supplying the spinal
cord can give symptoms of TM,but this is not TM due to the absense of
inflammation. Mri's ,blood tests ,etc. are done for diagnostic purposes. It
appears that the medical community believes the difference between an injury
and TM,is whether or not they believe the injury was determined to be the
direct cause of nuerologic manifestations or related in an unknown capacity.
Corticosteroids are given to act as an immune sytem suppressant to stop the
autoimmune disorder(whether real or presumed). Tm diagnosis can be made with
or without presence of lesions. TM and SCI symptoms are very real and can be
quite similar. Any cause of inflammation and exerting pressure on the spinal
cord causing nuerologic symptoms,and the cause of which is not directly linked
to injury, cannot be an injury.
Follow up MRI's are not presumed to automatic except in cases of increased
spasticity. I've attempted to answer your $64,000 question. Somebody please
correct any errors I have made.
best regards,
Phil