[Artificial Disc Replacement / Lumbar] M6-L (lumbar) Artificial Disc Replacement

[Cindylou]

Hello everyone, I am in the UK and having a m6 placed at L5-S1. New to the site and posting, I have read everything I could and here I am. Little nervous, just want my back to stop hurting. Questions for anyone who traveled from the US, how hard was the flight home? I have 9 days until I fly. Let me know if you can.
Cwurugger

Hi cwurugger, well, my surgery was in Germany (3 lumbar Prodiscs), I stayed for 3 weeks following surgery and my flight home was still real rough. But, you get through it, you know? I sort of had a chant going in my head, "this too shall pass, this too shall pass," for the duration of the flight. There was nothing but relief getting to my own home and my own bed, that's for sure. My best to you. God bless, Cindylou

[cwurugger]

Hi cwurugger, well, my surgery was in Germany (3 lumbar Prodiscs), I stayed for 3 weeks following surgery and my flight home was still real rough. But, you get through it, you know? I sort of had a chant going in my head, "this too shall pass, this too shall pass," for the duration of the flight. There was nothing but relief getting to my own home and my own bed, that's for sure. My best to you. God bless, Cindylou

Ya I am getting a little concerned about the return flight, British hospital protocals are sure different. I think I like it in the US, except for the cost

[helmut]

Hello everyone, I am in the UK and having a m6 placed at L5-S1. New to the site and posting, I have read everything I could and here I am. Little nervous, just want my back to stop hurting. Questions for anyone who traveled from the US, how hard was the flight home? I have 9 days until I fly. Let me know if you can.
Cwurugger

9 days after I would definitely recommend business class for the way back. If you are on an airline that has a business class that lays down all the way, you should really look into it. You can buy miles on various mileage plans and usually get a business ticket for about $3000 across the ocean.
9 days is not a lot. I stayed in a very nice hotel surrounded by forrest for 2 weeks in germany, all included in the stenum visit. I was able to walk long distances no problem but sitting upright for 12 hours would not have been nice. I suppose you can stand up a lot and relieve the back that way.
Of course I think that the pain you have experienced most likely before the surgery is wayyyyy worse than what this flight will be so don't stress out too much about it.

Helmut

[trkdoc714]

I'd have to agree with Helmut. My trip back was nearly 2 weeks post surgery and although uncomfortable, was livable. I was being cost conscious (a.k.a. cheap) and flew economy. Something to remember is to get up and walk around if possible, change seating position frequently and be generous to yourself with your pain medication(s).

Bob