[Spinal Fusion / Lumbar] 3 weeks after XLIF and PLIF

[irishnut]

So, it is week 3 after I had an XLIF and a PLIF. It was rough after the surgery. I was in alot of pain when I got released. The medication really did nothing to help me deal with the pain. The good thing was that after a week of being released the pain subsided a great deal. I was able to finally take a shower about 10 days after my surgery, which im sure my family was happy about. There was no way I was able to stand in the shower prior.

After a week from being released I left my parents house and went to my own home. I was still using a walker if I went out in public as a precaution. I was feeling pretty good. I was quite shock how the pain lowered. I still could not bend, so cooking anything is the oven was out of the question. Even if I was to squat my arms were to short to reach inside. I did tripped over my power cord for my computer falling face first. Luckily I did not hurt my back but it sure did scare the hell out of my.

A few day ago I saw my Dr. Since I no longer need a walker my dr said to start walking some. The next day I walked about a 1000ft, but I think it was to much to soon. I ran out of meds that day, so when I woke up the next morning I was in a tremendous amount of pain. I still cannot bend nor sit in chairs. I have only been able to find one chair I can sit in for a good amount of time but my mother will not let me have her computer chair (The nerve of her!!). All in all I am doing preety good I think. I have my some bad time but most are good.

[KBear]

Sounds like your recovery is going good, as to be expected at least. Remember to take it slow and easy, you only get 1 shot at recovery.

[Gilbert P]

Hi Irishnut

Sounds like you are healing and clean
You may have mentioned this in some other post but I will ask where, and who did you have your procedure accomplished? How many levels etc

Take it slow and easy

All The Best

Gil

[scduggan]

Dear Irishnut,
Thanks for the update. I have been thinking about you. Hang in there and keep us posted.
CD

[irishnut]

My operation was done by Dr. Malcom with Pinnacle Orthopedics at Kennestone hopital. I only did one level.

I do have this pain coming from my lower back about 2-3 inches to the lower left that is killing me. If I put pressure to the pain it subsides some. I go and see the Dr on the 9th to see what it might be. Minus that pain I would be perfect. Nevertheless I feel good.

Thanks scduggan!!!

[Katie]

I'm so sorry that you were in so much pain. It is weird how we are all so different...our bodies cope (or not) in such interesting ways

I'm a bit confused as to which level(s) you had done. You were scheduled for an XLIF and a PLIF and then only had the XLIF done? Have your cervical levels healed well and did you have any surgery on them also? So many questions...sorry!

I hope you continue to heal steadily. I seemed to go very slowly and then at about six weeks, everything started getting better much faster. I know what you mean about needing longer arms

[irishnut]

I had one level at L4-L5 disc. After the Xlif the Dr then placed four screws and bolts to provide extra stability. Im just kind of lost as to what and/or where the pain is coming from, because its on the top of my left buttocks. I hope I will find out on Wed when I see me Dr PA.

[irishnut]

I have found out that my pain is associated to muscle spasms due to not being able to stretch or use the lower back muscles. My pain Dr has placed me on a muscle stimulator device. It is the only pain I have after approx 6-7 weeks after surgery, so I can deal with that.

[KBear]

I have found out that my pain is associated to muscle spasms due to not being able to stretch or use the lower back muscles. My pain Dr has placed me on a muscle stimulator device. It is the only pain I have after approx 6-7 weeks after surgery, so I can deal with that.

That's great that it's just muscular, as that will eventually go away. Glad you are feeling good.

[irishnut]

How did the TENS work for you?