[Micodiscectomy, Laminectomy & Laser Decompression] Lumbar Laminectomy (Levels L1 to L5)

[roomba]

Creating a new thread for Natalie, as her surgery is around the corner...

Hi Justin and everyone,

I'm fairly new here and just took the time to read this entire string. Justin, I had no idea....reading this has been really inspiring and helpful as I prepare for my pre op appt on 9/16. My L1/L5 Laminectomy (no fusion) will be on Oct. 7 with Dr. Balderston and I'm ready. Justin's positive remarks about him have been comforting.

It's been an up and down few weeks. I went through some depression - had to leave work one day because I couldn't control my emotions. Not great to cry in the office, although my boss, staff and coworkers have been terrific. Got away to a beach over Labor Day which helped tremendously - needed a change in venue. And the best news of all was I finally weighed myself and was 6lbs lower than I expected which took some pressure off. I am overweight (always have been) and was really upset at the thought of getting heavier and heavier because I have been forced to a pretty sedentary state. Knowing I'm far from my highest has given me strength to really watch my eating, bike and pt as much as I can, and plan to lose the weight for good when I get to the other side.

Anyway, these boards have been really helpful both emotionally and practically as I prepare for surgery. I know now to ask about anesthesia and pain control options. I think I'm going to ask about the cost of a private room because I'm afraid I won't be able to sleep if I have a snoring or noisy roomate. I am a little concerned about H1N1 in the hospital and beyond and will ask about that. If anyone has any other suggestions about questions or anything else, I would appreciate the input.

As I read these boards, I feel that my problem is much less complex than what some of you are dealing with. Reading about all of your courageous stories is inspiring and really helpful in dealing with this. While the people who love and support me are wonderful, they really don't understand....
Gotta run now. Thanks for being here.

Natalie

[KBear]

Natalie, There is a great thread on here somewhere that is things you will need post-op. I believe Justin has it as a sticky thread.

[Justin]

Hi Natalie,

Thanks for your kind words. I have really enjoyed connecting with Spine Patients on the Internet since 2003. I've been fortunate enough to connect with so many wonderful people--unfortunately, most of them have suffered from debilitating spine issues and chronic pain.

Dr. Balderston is a first-class guy and he is an incredibly skilled surgeon. He is really down to earth, as you know, and he is an incredible advocate for his patients.

Here's the thread Kathy was referring to:

Spine Surgery Recovery: "Must Have" Items & Postoperative Tips.

BTW: here's a great "Question and Answer" by the Centers for Disease Control regarding the H1N1 virus:

Question and Answer, 2009 H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu) and You.

If you need anything, don't hesitate to send me a private message. We should definitely talk before your surgery on October 7th.

[Cindylou]

Natalie, welcome. I will be thinking of you on the 16th for your surgery. Won't be hard for me to remember....my actual birthday is the 16th. I pray this surgery will deliver you from your current status of pain. Hang in there...you're almost on that other side.

[roomba]

Natalie, welcome. I will be thinking of you on the 16th for your surgery. Won't be hard for me to remember....my actual birthday is the 16th. I pray this surgery will deliver you from your current status of pain. Hang in there...you're almost on that other side.

Thanks for your kind words Cindylou. I'm actually just going for pre admission testing on Wednesday - my surgery will be on October 7. 3 weeks and counting. I'll keep everyone posted.
Natalie

[Justin]

Hi Natalie,

We are still thinking of you. You are one day closer to your "new" life!

[roomba]

Hi all,

I'm 3 1/2 weeks post 4 level lumbar laminectomy and after having almost no pain, I have now developed pain in my left hip and quadricep. It doesn't feel like nerve pain - feels more muscular. I'm not sure if I was lying in a twisted position and that's what caused it. I didn't lift anything. Maybe too active?? I have been trying to take it easy.

Anyway, it hurts. It was so bad during the night I was beside myself. Took all my pain meds and it's better today, but still hurts. I'm not sure whether to sit or lay down - and lay down on my back, side???

I did a few chores today and then crashed - have been resting for a few hours. I'm not sure what else to do but I guess if it's not gone by tomorrow I'll call the doctor.

I sure hope I didn't overdo it and hurt myself.
Thanks for listening.

[linda]

Natalie,
I'm sorry you have had such a painful day and hopefully some rest will calm things down a bit. I think I have rested too much today for it is kind of cold and rainy here - kind of got the blues I guess. I hope you will sleep well and wake up tomorrow feeling much better so you don't have to call or go to the doc.
Take it easy,
Linda

[Greg]

Sorry to hear you are feeling this way. Wish I had advice to help but I wish the best for you and hope you feel better. Im keeping my fingers crossed for you.

[Justin]

Hi Natalie,

I am sorry that you are hurting. During the recovery process, there will be many ups and downs. At this stage in your recovery, it sounds like it is a muscular issue. Make sure to take things slow to allow your body to recover--you only get one chance to heal right.

In terms of whether to sit or lay down--do what feels comfortable...listen to your body. If one position hurts or causes increased pain, avoid that position for the time being.

Hang in there and your pain should pass in good time.