[Spinal Fusion / Lumbar] Xlif l4-l5

[irishnut]

I have been able to schedule my appointment the my pain doctor for Wed rather then Fri. I will discuss trying something stronger for the next few weeks. I have to do something.

I took my first shower. That was a wrestling match I will stay from got the moment.

[irishnut]

Doing alot better. I have one spot just to the right of the incisions for the Postinterior that I have pain coming from. Went to the store on Tues for het my mom her birthday present. Didnt walk around too much, but boy that tuckered me out. I was shocked! All in all pretty good.

Still have the nerve pain in the right leg, which is more than a pain in rear, then hurt. I have notice a great deal of nerve pain down the inner thigh of my left leg. Kind of feels like type pulling on your hairs on the leg (guess guys know that feeling more). Saw the pain Dr. Here was in the room maybe two minutes. Hate the kind of Dr's that treat you like another number.

Think the worse thing now is boredom is start to tap on my shoulder. Hmmm, not liking his presence....

[Carmen]

Thank you Gil!
Hello Cindylou and Carmen!

Carmen,

I had my preop on Wed. We decided I would be doing the Xlif and the Posterior fusion as well. The doctor said I would return to light duty in approx 5 weeks, and then return to full duty around 4 months. I can live with that. Well, I guess I really dont have a choice huh? Doc said he wanted to add the Post for extra support.

Now I guess I need to figure one thing. How in the world does one get use to not working for five weeks?????

HI irishnut,
i am having the same thing you are. XLIF and then posterior laminectomy to add the screws and rods. I do not have the same profession you do. The doctor wants to make sure I don't have to have another spine surgery with the exception of maybe having something come loose, etc. It will add stability so you won't have to come back for another surgery. Hopefully this will be it for the both of us. When did you say you were having your surgery and who is performing the procedure? Carmen

[Cindylou]

Hi Irishnut, have your pain levels calmed down anymore for you yet? I sure hope so. Please make your needs known as best you can to your doctor, to get your pain to a manageable level. It will help expedite your healing process as well. Is there any loved one/good friend that can help advocate for you at your next appointment? I have found that to be quite beneficial to have an ally on my side. Hang in there and we are here to help you in any way we can.

My best to you, Cindylou (fyi to Carmen: Irishnut had her surgery about 15 days ago....)

[irishnut]

My pain level done a 180 compaired to what it was I still have some of course but nothing like it was. I am getting around just fine. I cant bend it but nevertheless im good. Boredmon is the biggest factor right now. I dont start physical therapy until June 1st. My Dr said I was allowed to drive but it is still uncomfortable to sit in a car, much leess any other seat. I walked about 1000ft today. Way to much right now.

I am very happy that I went with the surgery.

[linda]

Hey irishnut,
I am so glad that you are doing so much better. Hopefully this time will fly by and you will be back to work in no time. I know you are glad to have this behind you so you can move on with your life. Boredom is another reason I have put my surgery off because I don't think I can stay in the house that long. I am one of those that rarely lay out of work and go crazy after two days at home on the weekend. Wishing you a speedy recovery.
Take it easy,
Linda

[irishnut]

Linda,

Thank you! I put mine off for two years. Now that I have had my surgery I wish I would not have waited. Boredom is a hard one to fight when you are so use to constantly doing something. I am always on the computer and calling my friends and coworkers, driving crazy im sure. My coworker let me know when to turn on my work radio when something good is going on.

Dont wait much longer. I strongly suggest moving foward with your surgery. Yes I have pain but it is from the surgery and not from what I use to battle prior. It is a different pain, but a pain I am dealing with much better then the pain prior to surgery. At least this pain is getting better. Good luck and keep us informed.