tracy72
05-22-2004, 11:45 AM
I was wondering if anyone could tell me a bit about lumbar fusion surgery.I am nervous about having the surgery done.First of all in July i had surgery for a herniated disk in my L4-S1.It was a complete massive block which caused Cuada Equina Syndrome.I just had an mri about a month ago and the surgeon has told me that the disk that was operated on has now herniated again and the disk above it has completely lost all the water,is starting to herniate and has a tear.My surgeon told me i have to have a lumbar fusion surgery.He asked me if i smoke,which i do.The cages cannot be used on me for that reason,so he has to fuse the bones together.I would like to know if someone has had this surgery and what you went through.What was the surgery like including the bone graft,was there alot of pain?Is the incision very big in back and in front?I know they put a catheter(sp?)in but how would you have a bowel movement?,Is it painful to have a bowel movement?Do i have to wear a back brace?Since i have four children 9,7,4,2 could you suspect what it will be like for me when i arrive home from the hospital?Could you tell me what is most likely to be perscribed to me for pain medication.Above all would you recommend the surgery and do you regret having the surgery?Thank you for your time.I really appreticiate the information.
Tracy
Tracy
Sponsor
dianaj85
05-27-2004, 06:00 PM
Hey Tracy! I had L5/S1 fusion with only an incision in the back (yes...it is pretty large!), with bone taken from the hip (without a separate incision for that). I am 36, with 2 kids, ages 10 and 11. I would say that you will definitely need help for taking care of yourself, as well as your little ones. You will not be able to lift anything of any weight for several months, or bend, or twist, or sit in a chair for more than 20 minutes or so at a time.
My surgery was on April 6th. I was in the hospital for 2 days...usually it is 4 or 5. I did have a catheter in for a really short while, since I was up and being assisted to the bathroom the evening of surgery. The first couple of days are really hard, but it does get better every day. The first time up is a killer!! Bowel movements take a while to "kick in" since the anesthesia and pain killers usually result in constipation. It wasn't painful once I was able to go (several days later). I was given Vicoden to go home on, and only took it for about 5 days, and occasionally at night to help me get a good nights sleep...those first nights can be long. I came home with a hospital bed and a walker. I didn't have to use either for more than a week. I did not have to wear a brace, although from what I have seen, most people do.
My doc did not let me in car (even as a passenger!) for 5 weeks, and I am still waiting for the green light to drive. That should be in around 3 weeks. I am feeling pretty good. Most of my "pain" feels like muscle tightness from the incision, and I don't feel my bones grinding in there like I did before. I am glad I did it already, even though I haven't seen the full results, yet. I get tired quickly, still don't sit except to eat or use the bathroom, and haven't been able to feel normal yet!
Smoking is the worst thing you can do after fusion from what I have read....do you think you could quit during your recovery, or sometime before? Also, no anti-inflamatories (Advil, etc.).
Oh...by the way...my condition prior to surgery was Spondylolisthesis, and I had no disc left between the 2 vertebrae that were fused. If I fuse alright, I should be loads better!
Hope this helps! I'd be glad to try to answer any other questions!
Melinda
My surgery was on April 6th. I was in the hospital for 2 days...usually it is 4 or 5. I did have a catheter in for a really short while, since I was up and being assisted to the bathroom the evening of surgery. The first couple of days are really hard, but it does get better every day. The first time up is a killer!! Bowel movements take a while to "kick in" since the anesthesia and pain killers usually result in constipation. It wasn't painful once I was able to go (several days later). I was given Vicoden to go home on, and only took it for about 5 days, and occasionally at night to help me get a good nights sleep...those first nights can be long. I came home with a hospital bed and a walker. I didn't have to use either for more than a week. I did not have to wear a brace, although from what I have seen, most people do.
My doc did not let me in car (even as a passenger!) for 5 weeks, and I am still waiting for the green light to drive. That should be in around 3 weeks. I am feeling pretty good. Most of my "pain" feels like muscle tightness from the incision, and I don't feel my bones grinding in there like I did before. I am glad I did it already, even though I haven't seen the full results, yet. I get tired quickly, still don't sit except to eat or use the bathroom, and haven't been able to feel normal yet!
Smoking is the worst thing you can do after fusion from what I have read....do you think you could quit during your recovery, or sometime before? Also, no anti-inflamatories (Advil, etc.).
Oh...by the way...my condition prior to surgery was Spondylolisthesis, and I had no disc left between the 2 vertebrae that were fused. If I fuse alright, I should be loads better!
Hope this helps! I'd be glad to try to answer any other questions!
Melinda
tracy72
05-28-2004, 10:14 AM
Hi Melinda,
Thank you so much for the information.I am so worried about this surgery and i think the wait for it is making it worse for me.The pain that i have been in for the last couple of weeks has been incredible.My family doctor has just upgraded me from Tylenol 3 to percocet.That took alot of begging.I am not sure why it is so hard to get proper pain medication but it is so frustrating.Between dealing with the stress of the kids,the pain,and just knowing what i have to face for the future.I get so depressed.I am so glad that i found this website with people that are very supportive and understanding.I really don`t have very much support with family or friends and the doctor just seems to want to rush me out of his office.I am so very thankful for you guys on this board.Thank you again for answering my questions Melinda,it helped me alot.It made me feel more at ease.The first surgery i had i was alone and very scared.But at least i know now i have support from the people on this board! Thank you!
Thank you so much for the information.I am so worried about this surgery and i think the wait for it is making it worse for me.The pain that i have been in for the last couple of weeks has been incredible.My family doctor has just upgraded me from Tylenol 3 to percocet.That took alot of begging.I am not sure why it is so hard to get proper pain medication but it is so frustrating.Between dealing with the stress of the kids,the pain,and just knowing what i have to face for the future.I get so depressed.I am so glad that i found this website with people that are very supportive and understanding.I really don`t have very much support with family or friends and the doctor just seems to want to rush me out of his office.I am so very thankful for you guys on this board.Thank you again for answering my questions Melinda,it helped me alot.It made me feel more at ease.The first surgery i had i was alone and very scared.But at least i know now i have support from the people on this board! Thank you!
dianaj85
05-28-2004, 11:47 AM
Tracy,
You are right about the wait and the depression....it is scarey, and I spent many days and nights being down about my pain, and worrying about surgery (mostly about the recovery phase). I was fortunate I guess, in that I could always lie down and make my pain go away before the surgeryD. It was soooo depressing, though, feeling so limited. I was spending LOTS of time on the couch, having my family fetch me things so that I wouldn't have to feel the pain of just getting up. I didn't take alot of pain killers beforehand....I just either dealt with the pain, or I didn't do the activities that I was used to doing. It is really frustrating, especially when I appeared to everyone else as though I were normal, young, and healthy. I still swam many laps everyday, but then could hardly get out of the pool, and had trouble bending over to pick up my towel afterwards! At church over the past several months, I finally got to where I was just saying outright that I was not going to be volunteering for anything else because of my back!
My church family helped so much during recovery....bringing 2 or 3 meals a week. Do you have friends that could help out, or extended family to come and help with housework? Married? My husband helped alot, but was busy at work, and it wore him out. He's a pediatrician, and works long hours. My kids were also old enough to be a help, rather than a responsibility. Recovery is so limiting, that "easy" tasks are forbidden. I am at the "feeling somewhat normal and frustrated" phase.....where I really want to be doing more.
Please let me know when your surgery is....I know it is hard when you don't know people who've been through this. I would've liked to have found this board before now! I can honestly say that it has not been nearly as bad as I thought it would be! I can't even tell which hip they took my graft from. I know everyone is different, and I hope your recovery is smooth! You'll get better, and be good as new, again! I know that it seems like you are never going to be back to normal, but you just have to have hope and believe that you are! I am starting to see the light after several years of being down in the dumps over this stupid back!
Take care, and God bless! Melinda
P.S. Have you done Physical Therapy, Epidural Steroid Injections, or TENS units? I did......didn't help....
You are right about the wait and the depression....it is scarey, and I spent many days and nights being down about my pain, and worrying about surgery (mostly about the recovery phase). I was fortunate I guess, in that I could always lie down and make my pain go away before the surgeryD. It was soooo depressing, though, feeling so limited. I was spending LOTS of time on the couch, having my family fetch me things so that I wouldn't have to feel the pain of just getting up. I didn't take alot of pain killers beforehand....I just either dealt with the pain, or I didn't do the activities that I was used to doing. It is really frustrating, especially when I appeared to everyone else as though I were normal, young, and healthy. I still swam many laps everyday, but then could hardly get out of the pool, and had trouble bending over to pick up my towel afterwards! At church over the past several months, I finally got to where I was just saying outright that I was not going to be volunteering for anything else because of my back!
My church family helped so much during recovery....bringing 2 or 3 meals a week. Do you have friends that could help out, or extended family to come and help with housework? Married? My husband helped alot, but was busy at work, and it wore him out. He's a pediatrician, and works long hours. My kids were also old enough to be a help, rather than a responsibility. Recovery is so limiting, that "easy" tasks are forbidden. I am at the "feeling somewhat normal and frustrated" phase.....where I really want to be doing more.
Please let me know when your surgery is....I know it is hard when you don't know people who've been through this. I would've liked to have found this board before now! I can honestly say that it has not been nearly as bad as I thought it would be! I can't even tell which hip they took my graft from. I know everyone is different, and I hope your recovery is smooth! You'll get better, and be good as new, again! I know that it seems like you are never going to be back to normal, but you just have to have hope and believe that you are! I am starting to see the light after several years of being down in the dumps over this stupid back!
Take care, and God bless! Melinda
P.S. Have you done Physical Therapy, Epidural Steroid Injections, or TENS units? I did......didn't help....
tracy72
05-29-2004, 11:57 AM
Hi Melinda,
Thank you for making me feel very supported during this time.I was wondering,the bone graft that was taking did the doctors go through your back?I have had physiotherapy in the past but that was for scoliosis.Which i have also.I had electrotherapy, heat therapy and excersises too.That did not help me at all.The heat pack that was put on my back left welt marks on my skin.My appointment to see the surgeon is June 9th.That is when he will tell me when my surgery is.The last time i saw him was when he told me that i had dengentretive(sp?) disk disease and he told me just to deal with the pain for as long as i can and then he would have to perform the surgery.I preferred that because three of my four kids are in school.My husband takes my nine year old in the morning and my seven year old takes the school bus.My daughter is in kindergarten and i take her in the afternoon and then pick them up after school.My daughter has missed some school because when i wake up i am in agony.I am 31 soon to be 32.First i had to deal with the pain from the scoliosis ever since i was 14 years old.After i had my children(three of them i had no epidural because of the curve in my back)My pain was just unbearable so i went to a clinic and thats when i started begging for an MRI or a CT scan but they said that it was just pain from the scoliosis.They were wrong.It`s so frustrating when someone that is supposed to be taking care of your physical needs just doesn`t care.I really wish that i could find a doctor that is going through the same thing that we are. I have one sister that lives quite far from me so she cannot help me after the surgery and my mother is busy taking care of two of my sisters children so it would be hard for her but i hope she can help out just a little bit.Thats pretty much all the family i deal with.Take care Melinda and hope to hear from you soon.
Thank you for making me feel very supported during this time.I was wondering,the bone graft that was taking did the doctors go through your back?I have had physiotherapy in the past but that was for scoliosis.Which i have also.I had electrotherapy, heat therapy and excersises too.That did not help me at all.The heat pack that was put on my back left welt marks on my skin.My appointment to see the surgeon is June 9th.That is when he will tell me when my surgery is.The last time i saw him was when he told me that i had dengentretive(sp?) disk disease and he told me just to deal with the pain for as long as i can and then he would have to perform the surgery.I preferred that because three of my four kids are in school.My husband takes my nine year old in the morning and my seven year old takes the school bus.My daughter is in kindergarten and i take her in the afternoon and then pick them up after school.My daughter has missed some school because when i wake up i am in agony.I am 31 soon to be 32.First i had to deal with the pain from the scoliosis ever since i was 14 years old.After i had my children(three of them i had no epidural because of the curve in my back)My pain was just unbearable so i went to a clinic and thats when i started begging for an MRI or a CT scan but they said that it was just pain from the scoliosis.They were wrong.It`s so frustrating when someone that is supposed to be taking care of your physical needs just doesn`t care.I really wish that i could find a doctor that is going through the same thing that we are. I have one sister that lives quite far from me so she cannot help me after the surgery and my mother is busy taking care of two of my sisters children so it would be hard for her but i hope she can help out just a little bit.Thats pretty much all the family i deal with.Take care Melinda and hope to hear from you soon.
dianaj85
05-29-2004, 01:20 PM
Hi Tracy,
My surgeon has been really good, and I think quite upfront and honest about the whole thing. It's too bad that you don't feel good about your doc....maybe you should try to find one that you do like. My doc is a "spine specialist", but not a neurosurgeon....I think an orthopedist who has lots more training and experience with the back. My doctor only made the one incision down the middle of my back...it starts about an inch or two above my waistline, and goes down for about 6 or 8 inches. It is actually not near as bad looking as I thought it would be...it is pretty skinny. It seems like alot of people have had an extra incision, but I didn't. I think I remember him telling me beforehand that I would only have the one cut. That is why I really can't tell which side the graft even came from, and I haven't had hip pain from it at all. Some people here seem to have pain there.....
I went to an osteopathic doc first with my pain, who did NO Xrays at all...just manipulated me like a chiropractor. Didn't help. I did that for several months. It is frustrating, isn't it?! When I went to a bone doc, he did Xrays and could see the problem right off. I tried all of the conservative stuff that they want you to try first (again, really frustrating!), then was referred to my current doctor. I also had heat and ultrasound. I feel bad for you being so young and dealing with so much pain (I hear all the time "Oh! Your too young for that!).....I had a friend in High school who had scoliosis, and had her entire spine fused as a teenager and did great. I recently talked to her, and she is still fine. Very good posture! :p
Ask alot of questions beforehand so you'll know what you'll be up against. Go ahead and start making a list, and make him/her take the time to talk to you. It's a big surgery, and long recovery. You won't be able to take care of your kids for quite some time....everything in normal life requires bending and twisting. Buy a reacher so that you don't feel tempted to bend. I also have a sock putter-onner, and I attached my razor to a plastic stirring spoon to shave my legs! Everything is harder, and some things impossible. My parents were around lots during the first couple of weeks.....helping with groceries, and cleaning, and kids, and laundry. My husband still does all of the housework (won't let me!) and I am nearly 8 wks out. Maybe you should talk to your mom and sister, and see if they can work something out to help you. I feel very blessed having my fam. and my husbands fam, as well as my church family.
I think being homebound has been the hardest for me. I can't drive, yet, and spent 5 wks. not being able to get in the car. I think that's why I was able to walk so well, so soon afterwards. I was so stir crazy, I just got up and walked out the front door every chance I got, even with my walker! It's good mentally, too....as long as you don't over-do it. My doc encouraged standing and walking.
I am going for a walk, now.....let me know if I can answer any more questions!
Melinda
My surgeon has been really good, and I think quite upfront and honest about the whole thing. It's too bad that you don't feel good about your doc....maybe you should try to find one that you do like. My doc is a "spine specialist", but not a neurosurgeon....I think an orthopedist who has lots more training and experience with the back. My doctor only made the one incision down the middle of my back...it starts about an inch or two above my waistline, and goes down for about 6 or 8 inches. It is actually not near as bad looking as I thought it would be...it is pretty skinny. It seems like alot of people have had an extra incision, but I didn't. I think I remember him telling me beforehand that I would only have the one cut. That is why I really can't tell which side the graft even came from, and I haven't had hip pain from it at all. Some people here seem to have pain there.....
I went to an osteopathic doc first with my pain, who did NO Xrays at all...just manipulated me like a chiropractor. Didn't help. I did that for several months. It is frustrating, isn't it?! When I went to a bone doc, he did Xrays and could see the problem right off. I tried all of the conservative stuff that they want you to try first (again, really frustrating!), then was referred to my current doctor. I also had heat and ultrasound. I feel bad for you being so young and dealing with so much pain (I hear all the time "Oh! Your too young for that!).....I had a friend in High school who had scoliosis, and had her entire spine fused as a teenager and did great. I recently talked to her, and she is still fine. Very good posture! :p
Ask alot of questions beforehand so you'll know what you'll be up against. Go ahead and start making a list, and make him/her take the time to talk to you. It's a big surgery, and long recovery. You won't be able to take care of your kids for quite some time....everything in normal life requires bending and twisting. Buy a reacher so that you don't feel tempted to bend. I also have a sock putter-onner, and I attached my razor to a plastic stirring spoon to shave my legs! Everything is harder, and some things impossible. My parents were around lots during the first couple of weeks.....helping with groceries, and cleaning, and kids, and laundry. My husband still does all of the housework (won't let me!) and I am nearly 8 wks out. Maybe you should talk to your mom and sister, and see if they can work something out to help you. I feel very blessed having my fam. and my husbands fam, as well as my church family.
I think being homebound has been the hardest for me. I can't drive, yet, and spent 5 wks. not being able to get in the car. I think that's why I was able to walk so well, so soon afterwards. I was so stir crazy, I just got up and walked out the front door every chance I got, even with my walker! It's good mentally, too....as long as you don't over-do it. My doc encouraged standing and walking.
I am going for a walk, now.....let me know if I can answer any more questions!
Melinda
nero
05-30-2004, 07:39 AM
Hi Dear,
Just a quick question? Did the doc say you HAD TO HAVE fusion vs. microdiskectomy. I ask as I had ACDF (neck fusion ) for c5-6 Nov 03 and just had micro operation for l5-s1 herniation. My chiro asked to have the lumbar fusion to get rid of the darn disk but when I approached my doc who is very indulging of questions, he said that the lumbar fusion was not necessary, he hoped, based on what he read and opt for the micor op.
When I got on the net it said most fusions are for the specific lower back pain that comes with the herniation whereas micro op is for radicular pain down the buttocks, legs etc. My main pain was nerve pain radiating and right hip tightening up so bad I couldn't move it.
I had micro and am post op 4 weeks... did really well, and now having major tummy spasms and groin spasms with some radicular pain but not as intense. When I told physio I was starting June 7 they said to rest as these surgeries although called minimally invasive, still go at the nerves etc and YOU MUST give it time. I was very upset as I had a major set back of major pins and needles from my spinal chord compression and they claimed that was recoiling of the spine which happens.
My point being is that THE TYPE of back pain indicates profoundly the type of surgery.
All I can say is that I have been through the neck fusion and like the other member says, you will get through it. Take your pain medication, tell yourself how you know you cannot live with the pain like this, and that you have to opt for surgery to have some type of life with your kiddies.
You will be okay.. I can attest that I have mostly good days, some difficult days but I am not living every moment for my back anymore and learn to accept and adjust your life to your new back.. you have to try to rise above this challenge and although it can be difficult, many here can attest to the fact that it is not insurmountable.
Good luck and heed the words of the members who have had the type of surgery you are having.. you are right.. they do know and that is more than any dr. knows who hasn't gone through this.
Sincerely nearly new again..NERO
Just a quick question? Did the doc say you HAD TO HAVE fusion vs. microdiskectomy. I ask as I had ACDF (neck fusion ) for c5-6 Nov 03 and just had micro operation for l5-s1 herniation. My chiro asked to have the lumbar fusion to get rid of the darn disk but when I approached my doc who is very indulging of questions, he said that the lumbar fusion was not necessary, he hoped, based on what he read and opt for the micor op.
When I got on the net it said most fusions are for the specific lower back pain that comes with the herniation whereas micro op is for radicular pain down the buttocks, legs etc. My main pain was nerve pain radiating and right hip tightening up so bad I couldn't move it.
I had micro and am post op 4 weeks... did really well, and now having major tummy spasms and groin spasms with some radicular pain but not as intense. When I told physio I was starting June 7 they said to rest as these surgeries although called minimally invasive, still go at the nerves etc and YOU MUST give it time. I was very upset as I had a major set back of major pins and needles from my spinal chord compression and they claimed that was recoiling of the spine which happens.
My point being is that THE TYPE of back pain indicates profoundly the type of surgery.
All I can say is that I have been through the neck fusion and like the other member says, you will get through it. Take your pain medication, tell yourself how you know you cannot live with the pain like this, and that you have to opt for surgery to have some type of life with your kiddies.
You will be okay.. I can attest that I have mostly good days, some difficult days but I am not living every moment for my back anymore and learn to accept and adjust your life to your new back.. you have to try to rise above this challenge and although it can be difficult, many here can attest to the fact that it is not insurmountable.
Good luck and heed the words of the members who have had the type of surgery you are having.. you are right.. they do know and that is more than any dr. knows who hasn't gone through this.
Sincerely nearly new again..NERO
tracy72
05-30-2004, 12:53 PM
Hi,
The orthopedic surgeon that i see every six weeks told me that i have to have the surgery.They removed forty percent of the disk with the first surgery because there was a complete block of the L5-S1.After i had the MRI done about eight months later (this past March) it showed the disk that was operated on had herniated and the disk above it herniated as well.But i think the doctor feels bad about it because of what i had to go through before and probably because of my age.I think he is really trying to prolong the surgery,i guess because he knows how i will feel and how long it will take to recover from it.The last time i seen the doctor was six weeks ago and thats when he gave me the diagnosis and told me to set up an appointment at the fracture clinic to see if the sciatica(sp?) has been worse.Which it has been.He told me when i just cannot take the pain anymore he can make the appointment for the surgery.So when i see him on June 9th i will have the date of the surgery.I will post the date of the surgery and i will keep you all updated.Take care!
Tracy
The orthopedic surgeon that i see every six weeks told me that i have to have the surgery.They removed forty percent of the disk with the first surgery because there was a complete block of the L5-S1.After i had the MRI done about eight months later (this past March) it showed the disk that was operated on had herniated and the disk above it herniated as well.But i think the doctor feels bad about it because of what i had to go through before and probably because of my age.I think he is really trying to prolong the surgery,i guess because he knows how i will feel and how long it will take to recover from it.The last time i seen the doctor was six weeks ago and thats when he gave me the diagnosis and told me to set up an appointment at the fracture clinic to see if the sciatica(sp?) has been worse.Which it has been.He told me when i just cannot take the pain anymore he can make the appointment for the surgery.So when i see him on June 9th i will have the date of the surgery.I will post the date of the surgery and i will keep you all updated.Take care!
Tracy
dianaj85
05-30-2004, 01:53 PM
I feel SO fortunate not to have had all of the nerve involvement that you guys have had. My surgeon was completely surprised post-surgery that I hadn't been experiencing leg symptoms, given what everything looked like in there. I have heard that even once the nerves are "freed up" that they can take a while to heal. My doc also did a laminectomy while he was in there, just to make certain I would have no compression.
My condition needed the fusion....my vertebrae were fractured and slipped out of place. I didn't have any disk left in the space to even bother with. Does anyone know where a disk goes? Is it absorbed into the body once it is starting to degenerate?
Tracy....let me know what you hear from your doc! I am online alot (esp. since my surgery!), so I'll try to keep up with your progress!
Melinda
My condition needed the fusion....my vertebrae were fractured and slipped out of place. I didn't have any disk left in the space to even bother with. Does anyone know where a disk goes? Is it absorbed into the body once it is starting to degenerate?
Tracy....let me know what you hear from your doc! I am online alot (esp. since my surgery!), so I'll try to keep up with your progress!
Melinda
Tomorrow
05-31-2004, 12:55 AM
Hello Tracy :wave:
I also had a Lumbar Fusion with Infuse last June. I just thought that I would give you a few more suggestions on preparing your home for your surgery. My husband and I had switched dressers as his is a chest and much higher. You have to put your clothing up were you won't bend. Also I would have a supply of plenty of tee shirts if you are going to be wearing a brace. I had to wear the TLSO brace and I wore a tee shirt under them. If your surgeon does give you a date in the summer months, it will be a hot one with the brace. I also invested in baby powder...lol Some people do purchase a hospital table, the adjustable one on wheels to use while in bed. I did not and I wish I would have. I could not reach my night stand. For the bathroom it would be good to have a removable shower head. I also got soap on a rope so I couldn't drop it. Also I needed a shower chair. The nurse that came to my home ordered me one as I couldn't stand in the shower because of the combination of the meds and steam and of course pain. I was sent home from the hospital with a walker and a raised toilet seat. The toilet seat is a must... Prior into going into the hospital you really should remove all throw carpets. I moved the ones by my front door and in my kitchen but not my bathroom. I didn't think that I would trip in such a small place and I was wrong. After this surgery you don't realize how easy it is to fall. You have to take all precautions. As for my kitchen I didn't rearrange everything but many people do. I have teenage kids so I just had them get me what I needed from underneath the counters. I do have a water machine that my husband put on a crate so I could reach it without bending. When you do get your surgery date, just walk through your home for a couple of days without be aloud to bend. Then you will see what needs to be done. I did so much preparing for my surgery. Would you believe that when I came home that I could only sleep in my bed for a couple of days. I then slept on my couch for over 4 months. I have a very thick mattress but it was not firm enough. My husband tried everything for me. This was a new mattress. We ended up putting a piece of plywood under my couch cushion. It will also be a good idea to make sure that a walker will fit everywhere in your home. I do have a narrow hallway in my home. My husband figured out that you can change the wheels on it and put them on the inside of the walker. What would I do without him.... Make sure that you don't forget about the grabber that Melinda had mentioned as that it the most important and handy tool. I went through 3 of them. I kept breaking them as I tried picking everything up with them....lol I never knew they made a sock putter-onner. I sure could use one of them at this time. I have a problem with my right leg and I can't put my sock on. I will have to check my medical supply store for this. Thanks Melinda. I also taped my razor onto a gadget. I used my shower brush as it had a long handle. I just couldn't trust anyone to shave my legs for me. Well, I will have to end this as it is getting late. If I think of anymore items I will let you know.
:angel: Jeanne :angel:
____________________
~LUMBAR~
Posterolateral Fusion & Infuse with Laminectomy on L4,L5,S1 June 2003
Instrumentation = 2 Rods, 6 Screws, 2 Disc Spacers
~CERVICAL~
Straightening of the Normal Cervical Lordosis.
Mild Congenital Narrowing of the Spinal Canal.
C4-5, C5-6, C6-7 Herniated Discs
C4-5 & C5-6 , Cord Flattening at these levels.
Fibromyalgia, Bursitis, Diabetes, Anemia, Asthma, Acid Reflux, Migraine's
I also had a Lumbar Fusion with Infuse last June. I just thought that I would give you a few more suggestions on preparing your home for your surgery. My husband and I had switched dressers as his is a chest and much higher. You have to put your clothing up were you won't bend. Also I would have a supply of plenty of tee shirts if you are going to be wearing a brace. I had to wear the TLSO brace and I wore a tee shirt under them. If your surgeon does give you a date in the summer months, it will be a hot one with the brace. I also invested in baby powder...lol Some people do purchase a hospital table, the adjustable one on wheels to use while in bed. I did not and I wish I would have. I could not reach my night stand. For the bathroom it would be good to have a removable shower head. I also got soap on a rope so I couldn't drop it. Also I needed a shower chair. The nurse that came to my home ordered me one as I couldn't stand in the shower because of the combination of the meds and steam and of course pain. I was sent home from the hospital with a walker and a raised toilet seat. The toilet seat is a must... Prior into going into the hospital you really should remove all throw carpets. I moved the ones by my front door and in my kitchen but not my bathroom. I didn't think that I would trip in such a small place and I was wrong. After this surgery you don't realize how easy it is to fall. You have to take all precautions. As for my kitchen I didn't rearrange everything but many people do. I have teenage kids so I just had them get me what I needed from underneath the counters. I do have a water machine that my husband put on a crate so I could reach it without bending. When you do get your surgery date, just walk through your home for a couple of days without be aloud to bend. Then you will see what needs to be done. I did so much preparing for my surgery. Would you believe that when I came home that I could only sleep in my bed for a couple of days. I then slept on my couch for over 4 months. I have a very thick mattress but it was not firm enough. My husband tried everything for me. This was a new mattress. We ended up putting a piece of plywood under my couch cushion. It will also be a good idea to make sure that a walker will fit everywhere in your home. I do have a narrow hallway in my home. My husband figured out that you can change the wheels on it and put them on the inside of the walker. What would I do without him.... Make sure that you don't forget about the grabber that Melinda had mentioned as that it the most important and handy tool. I went through 3 of them. I kept breaking them as I tried picking everything up with them....lol I never knew they made a sock putter-onner. I sure could use one of them at this time. I have a problem with my right leg and I can't put my sock on. I will have to check my medical supply store for this. Thanks Melinda. I also taped my razor onto a gadget. I used my shower brush as it had a long handle. I just couldn't trust anyone to shave my legs for me. Well, I will have to end this as it is getting late. If I think of anymore items I will let you know.
:angel: Jeanne :angel:
____________________
~LUMBAR~
Posterolateral Fusion & Infuse with Laminectomy on L4,L5,S1 June 2003
Instrumentation = 2 Rods, 6 Screws, 2 Disc Spacers
~CERVICAL~
Straightening of the Normal Cervical Lordosis.
Mild Congenital Narrowing of the Spinal Canal.
C4-5, C5-6, C6-7 Herniated Discs
C4-5 & C5-6 , Cord Flattening at these levels.
Fibromyalgia, Bursitis, Diabetes, Anemia, Asthma, Acid Reflux, Migraine's
dianaj85
05-31-2004, 10:18 AM
Hey Jeanne! I was just wondering how you are doing now, since it has been nearly a year since your surgery? I am amazed at how well I feel since mine that was only 8 weeks ago. My hubby and I had to sleep in the basement last night (due to tornado warning) on an aerobed. Pre-surgery we tried it out (to see if it would make me feel any better), and it was MISERABLE! Last night, I slept like a baby! BIG difference. I can't wait until all of my muscles are healed up, and fusion is complete, to try to move again!
The sock putter onner thing is just a curved piece of plastic with string attached at two sides....not anything big or expensive, but very inventive!
Melinda
The sock putter onner thing is just a curved piece of plastic with string attached at two sides....not anything big or expensive, but very inventive!
Melinda
tracy72
06-01-2004, 03:25 PM
Hi Tomorrow,
Thank you for all the info i was wondering,Did you have a scar from the bone graft?If you did how big was it?Does the nurse come to all the patients homes after a fusion or do you have to request that.Oh,and i was wondering if you could rent all of the medical supplies that you need after the surgery?And would anyone know the prices of that?
Thanks alot and take care everyone!
Tracy
Thank you for all the info i was wondering,Did you have a scar from the bone graft?If you did how big was it?Does the nurse come to all the patients homes after a fusion or do you have to request that.Oh,and i was wondering if you could rent all of the medical supplies that you need after the surgery?And would anyone know the prices of that?
Thanks alot and take care everyone!
Tracy
dianaj85
06-01-2004, 09:32 PM
Insurance covered my hospital bed and walker....the reacher only costs about $10. The raised toilet seat I already had from a relative, but I would bet that insurance would cover that as well. Insurance covered the outright purchase of the walker, so I still have that (hopefully won't need it again for a while!). You could check with your insurance provider and see just what they would cover. They might cover the shower chair as well.....I had one of those from a relative, too, but ended up not using it. Everyone is different. I just used the hand held shower and stood, and had help from my husband....
Melinda
Melinda
Tomorrow
06-01-2004, 09:46 PM
Hello Melinda :wave:
I am not sure you will like the answer to your question. Believe it or not I am still in a great deal of pain. I have some of the pain that I had prior to my surgery and new pain as well. I have had and MRI, Myelogram & CT Scan along with plenty of x-rays. What has shown is that I do have a slightly displaced S1 nerve root and this has happened from scar tissue. Also the films show what looks to be a good fusion on one side, and the other side is not completely fused yet. My neuro surgeon has told me that the only way to truly know if a patient is completely fused is to go back into surgery. I have also developed Fibromyalgia during my recovery which could be playing a role in my pain. My surgeon is waiting 6 months and then he will be removing my hardware. Some woman do experience pain from the hardware and perhaps this could be causing some of my pain.
But I am happy to hear that you are doing so well. You sure do sound as if your recovery is going to be a successful one. Just remember to go slow even when you feel great. This is a long recovery. Thank you for the tip on the sock puter onner thing. I will need that when the season changes again.
:angel: Jeanne :angel:
I am not sure you will like the answer to your question. Believe it or not I am still in a great deal of pain. I have some of the pain that I had prior to my surgery and new pain as well. I have had and MRI, Myelogram & CT Scan along with plenty of x-rays. What has shown is that I do have a slightly displaced S1 nerve root and this has happened from scar tissue. Also the films show what looks to be a good fusion on one side, and the other side is not completely fused yet. My neuro surgeon has told me that the only way to truly know if a patient is completely fused is to go back into surgery. I have also developed Fibromyalgia during my recovery which could be playing a role in my pain. My surgeon is waiting 6 months and then he will be removing my hardware. Some woman do experience pain from the hardware and perhaps this could be causing some of my pain.
But I am happy to hear that you are doing so well. You sure do sound as if your recovery is going to be a successful one. Just remember to go slow even when you feel great. This is a long recovery. Thank you for the tip on the sock puter onner thing. I will need that when the season changes again.
:angel: Jeanne :angel:
Tomorrow
06-01-2004, 10:10 PM
Hello Tracy :wave:
As for the bone graph, I do not have a scar. I had Infuse with my fusion. Instead of them taking bone from my hip they only took bone marrow. They then used this with a protein called BMP and inserted it into disc spacers. I still had pain in my hip but no incision.
The hospital that I had gone to had one of their nurses come and check on me at home. This is their policy with follow up care with their patients. I was very surprised that they did these as their treatment in the hospital was horrible. The day that I was to be released they had asked me if I had wanted to go home or to a rehabilitation hospital. I really wish that I would had went to the rehabilitation hospital. Maybe it is because I did have so may problems with my own bed. But it was much easier getting in & out of the hospital bed.
I don't believe that the hospital will let you go home without the walker. Also much depends on what your health insurance covers. Mine did cover the shower chair and the raised toilet seat. If you speak with your surgeon prior to your surgery perhaps he can write you the scripts in advance and you can see if your insurance will cover them. I don't know much about rentals or the prices on the items. But you check your local medical supply store. They might even have these items online. But I personally would first see if my insurance covered them. The reacher/grabber is sold in most drug stores between ten and fifteen dollars.
:angel: Jeanne :angel:
As for the bone graph, I do not have a scar. I had Infuse with my fusion. Instead of them taking bone from my hip they only took bone marrow. They then used this with a protein called BMP and inserted it into disc spacers. I still had pain in my hip but no incision.
The hospital that I had gone to had one of their nurses come and check on me at home. This is their policy with follow up care with their patients. I was very surprised that they did these as their treatment in the hospital was horrible. The day that I was to be released they had asked me if I had wanted to go home or to a rehabilitation hospital. I really wish that I would had went to the rehabilitation hospital. Maybe it is because I did have so may problems with my own bed. But it was much easier getting in & out of the hospital bed.
I don't believe that the hospital will let you go home without the walker. Also much depends on what your health insurance covers. Mine did cover the shower chair and the raised toilet seat. If you speak with your surgeon prior to your surgery perhaps he can write you the scripts in advance and you can see if your insurance will cover them. I don't know much about rentals or the prices on the items. But you check your local medical supply store. They might even have these items online. But I personally would first see if my insurance covered them. The reacher/grabber is sold in most drug stores between ten and fifteen dollars.
:angel: Jeanne :angel:
dianaj85
06-01-2004, 10:17 PM
Hey Tomorrow!! :wave:
Sorry to hear about your pain.....that's really too bad! :( It is a long recovery to not feel any better! I really hope that mine doesn't do that! I guess there is no way of predicting how we will heal as far as scar tissue goes.
My doc said he goes by my pain level as an indicator of fusion taking place. I have heard that it is hard to tell on Xray, although it would be nice to see "proof" of it! Especially since I anticipate bumping up my activity in a couple of months. I am trying to not do anything that would jepardize my recovery. I do walk alot, but not much else!
I wonder why you didn't completely fuse? It is puzzling to see posts of people who seem to do everything right, and still have problems.
Is recovery bad from removal of hardware? Do they seem to have to remove it more from women than men?
Thanks for your info!
Melinda
Sorry to hear about your pain.....that's really too bad! :( It is a long recovery to not feel any better! I really hope that mine doesn't do that! I guess there is no way of predicting how we will heal as far as scar tissue goes.
My doc said he goes by my pain level as an indicator of fusion taking place. I have heard that it is hard to tell on Xray, although it would be nice to see "proof" of it! Especially since I anticipate bumping up my activity in a couple of months. I am trying to not do anything that would jepardize my recovery. I do walk alot, but not much else!
I wonder why you didn't completely fuse? It is puzzling to see posts of people who seem to do everything right, and still have problems.
Is recovery bad from removal of hardware? Do they seem to have to remove it more from women than men?
Thanks for your info!
Melinda
Tomorrow
06-03-2004, 07:17 PM
Hello Melinda :wave:
Your recovery does sound like it is coming along well. I think that it is very important to keep a positive outlook, so please don't let my post bring you down. As for walking that is the best thing you can do for your recovery. I could not do this do to many leg problems with nerves and muscles. But doctor's do say that the best exercise is walking.
I think in time I will completely fuse. Some of us just take longer than others. As for the recovery of the removal of hardware I was told it is only a week. I was also told by my neuro surgeon prior to my surgery that mostly women have a problem with the hardware. He never gave me an explanation why. I hope you are having a great day.
:angel: Jeanne :angel:
Your recovery does sound like it is coming along well. I think that it is very important to keep a positive outlook, so please don't let my post bring you down. As for walking that is the best thing you can do for your recovery. I could not do this do to many leg problems with nerves and muscles. But doctor's do say that the best exercise is walking.
I think in time I will completely fuse. Some of us just take longer than others. As for the recovery of the removal of hardware I was told it is only a week. I was also told by my neuro surgeon prior to my surgery that mostly women have a problem with the hardware. He never gave me an explanation why. I hope you are having a great day.
:angel: Jeanne :angel:
dianaj85
06-04-2004, 09:33 AM
Hey Jeanne!
I am positive about my recovery...I know that everyone is different. I am amazed that the recovery from the hardware removal is so short! I hope it helps you. I had some concerns about the hardware before the surgery, as I have metal allergies. My doc said that true allergic problems with the titanium are very rare. I guess women's bodies are smaller, so they are more likely to "feel" the screws and rods in there. I just hope mine stay put! Seems that some like to work their way out over time!
What do they do for Fibro? Are there meds to take to make it any better?
Thanks for the encouragement! If I were in that much discomfort, I don't know how encourageing I would be!
Melinda
I am positive about my recovery...I know that everyone is different. I am amazed that the recovery from the hardware removal is so short! I hope it helps you. I had some concerns about the hardware before the surgery, as I have metal allergies. My doc said that true allergic problems with the titanium are very rare. I guess women's bodies are smaller, so they are more likely to "feel" the screws and rods in there. I just hope mine stay put! Seems that some like to work their way out over time!
What do they do for Fibro? Are there meds to take to make it any better?
Thanks for the encouragement! If I were in that much discomfort, I don't know how encourageing I would be!
Melinda
tracy72
06-05-2004, 02:46 AM
Hi everyone!! :wave:
Just thought i would let you all know that your information has really helped me alot and i will be going to the doctor in just four days.I still am feeling just a little bit nervous but i think i will be alright as long as you guys are around. I am very thankful for that.Also i broke my toe a few days ago so i now have a broken back and a broken toe! :D Take care everyone!
Tracy
Just thought i would let you all know that your information has really helped me alot and i will be going to the doctor in just four days.I still am feeling just a little bit nervous but i think i will be alright as long as you guys are around. I am very thankful for that.Also i broke my toe a few days ago so i now have a broken back and a broken toe! :D Take care everyone!
Tracy
dianaj85
06-05-2004, 09:39 AM
Yikes! Sorry about the toe!!! That's no good! Keep us updated...I'll be watching for your doctor's report!
Melinda :wave:
Melinda :wave:
Tomorrow
06-10-2004, 11:59 AM
Hello Melinda :wave:
I have also heard that allergic reactions to the titanium instrumentation is rare. I am hoping that in time some of my pain will diminish and maybe I won't need the surgery to remove the hardware. As for the Fibro, my Rheumatologist has me on an anti-inflammatory called Bextra and also an antidepressant called Effexor. A big problem with fibro is getting enough sleep which is hard with all the pain. I also take other meds that my pain management doctor has prescribed me for my lumbar, leg and neck pain as well. Both doctor's also wanted me to try acupuncture but my insurance does not cover this treatment and either does my budget. I was also using these Lidoderm Patches for my pain but my insurance just stopped covering them. My doctor's tried calling the insurance company to get them approved again but insurance still denied them. These patches did help my cervical pain to a degree. My doctor just changed my pain meds from Percocet to ms contin. I have been ill the last week and I am afraid to take this new med until I see my primary doctor today. I think that I may be having a slight problem with my anemia as I have been very weak and sleeping a lot lately. So hopefully my doctor says everything is okay today.
Your welcome for the encouragement. I still love to hear of success story's and I still have some hope. Have a wonderful day.
:angel: Jeanne :angel:
I have also heard that allergic reactions to the titanium instrumentation is rare. I am hoping that in time some of my pain will diminish and maybe I won't need the surgery to remove the hardware. As for the Fibro, my Rheumatologist has me on an anti-inflammatory called Bextra and also an antidepressant called Effexor. A big problem with fibro is getting enough sleep which is hard with all the pain. I also take other meds that my pain management doctor has prescribed me for my lumbar, leg and neck pain as well. Both doctor's also wanted me to try acupuncture but my insurance does not cover this treatment and either does my budget. I was also using these Lidoderm Patches for my pain but my insurance just stopped covering them. My doctor's tried calling the insurance company to get them approved again but insurance still denied them. These patches did help my cervical pain to a degree. My doctor just changed my pain meds from Percocet to ms contin. I have been ill the last week and I am afraid to take this new med until I see my primary doctor today. I think that I may be having a slight problem with my anemia as I have been very weak and sleeping a lot lately. So hopefully my doctor says everything is okay today.
Your welcome for the encouragement. I still love to hear of success story's and I still have some hope. Have a wonderful day.
:angel: Jeanne :angel:
Tomorrow
06-10-2004, 12:04 PM
Hello Tracy :wave:
Sorry to hear that you broke your toe. I have done the same thing to many times in the past, and unfortunately their isn't much they can do for it. I hope that your appointment went well with your surgeon. Did he give you a date yet?
:angel: Jeanne :angel:
Sorry to hear that you broke your toe. I have done the same thing to many times in the past, and unfortunately their isn't much they can do for it. I hope that your appointment went well with your surgeon. Did he give you a date yet?
:angel: Jeanne :angel:
tracy72
06-15-2004, 10:52 AM
Hi everyone,
Just to update you all, i did see my surgeon and he booked an appointment
today for me at his office so i can sign all the papers for the surgery.He told me that the surgery is probably going to be at the end of August.I am going to find out today the date of the surgery and i will let you all know.Take care everyone!!
Tracy
Just to update you all, i did see my surgeon and he booked an appointment
today for me at his office so i can sign all the papers for the surgery.He told me that the surgery is probably going to be at the end of August.I am going to find out today the date of the surgery and i will let you all know.Take care everyone!!
Tracy
tracy72
06-15-2004, 11:42 PM
Hi,
Just to let you guys know my surgery will be August 26th.I also have to bank my own blood just in case anything happens that will require a tranfusion.The doctor said that he will be using the cages,so i am keeping my fingers crossed and i hope this will finally end my pain.I am on percocet now and it just covers the pains in my back.I will talk to you later!
Just to let you guys know my surgery will be August 26th.I also have to bank my own blood just in case anything happens that will require a tranfusion.The doctor said that he will be using the cages,so i am keeping my fingers crossed and i hope this will finally end my pain.I am on percocet now and it just covers the pains in my back.I will talk to you later!
dianaj85
06-17-2004, 09:50 AM
:wave: Hi Tracy! Good luck in all of your preparations for surgery. The waiting can be really hard. I didn't have cages, or bank my own blood. My aunt had a similar surgery, though, and banked her own blood. My only advice here would be to take iron pills. My aunt had banked her blood, then at her pre-op visit, her blood tests showed anemia. They had to postpone her surgery by over a month! They said that sometimes happens when you have "donated" blood beforehand.
I will be in prayer for you and your anxiety. I am surely glad that I am looking back on my surgery, now, instead of the other way around!
Melinda
I will be in prayer for you and your anxiety. I am surely glad that I am looking back on my surgery, now, instead of the other way around!
Melinda
tracy72
06-28-2004, 10:45 PM
Hi Melinda,
Thank you so much.That is so nice of you to include me in your prayers.My doctor warned me about problems with anemia also.He prescribed iron pills for me to take three weeks prior to to surgery.I was wondering about your aunt,did it make her sick or dizzy when she had to bank her own blood?Also how much blood do they take at one time?
Thanks alot
Tracy
Thank you so much.That is so nice of you to include me in your prayers.My doctor warned me about problems with anemia also.He prescribed iron pills for me to take three weeks prior to to surgery.I was wondering about your aunt,did it make her sick or dizzy when she had to bank her own blood?Also how much blood do they take at one time?
Thanks alot
Tracy
Tomorrow
06-28-2004, 11:29 PM
Hello Tracy :wave:
I also had developed anemia. I only donated one unit of blood prior to my surgery. The next week I then began my menstrual cycle. At my pre-opt appointment with my neuro surgeon he did say that my iron count was low but surgery went on as scheduled. A couple of weeks later I was diagnosed with anemia and had to start taking iron pills. This past March I also had a minor surgery called a Cryoablation to control my heavy menstrual cycles as my iron counts were getting dangerously low. So I think that it is a great idea that your surgeon did tell you to start taking iron. When I did donate my blood they had first checked my iron count and said that it was ideal. I did not feel at all dizzy as they had me lie down for the drawing. Afterwards they even gave me some juice to drink and wanted me to stay for an extra ten minutes but I couldn't wait to get out of there as I really don't like the sight of blood. I was surprised that this wasn't covered under my insurance and that I had to pay for this. I just kept thinking about all the times that I had donated blood and now I had to pay to use my own blood..... But they explained to me that this charge was to process and transfer the blood to the hospital. Would you believe that my surgeon never used it.....
:angel: Jeanne :angel:
I also had developed anemia. I only donated one unit of blood prior to my surgery. The next week I then began my menstrual cycle. At my pre-opt appointment with my neuro surgeon he did say that my iron count was low but surgery went on as scheduled. A couple of weeks later I was diagnosed with anemia and had to start taking iron pills. This past March I also had a minor surgery called a Cryoablation to control my heavy menstrual cycles as my iron counts were getting dangerously low. So I think that it is a great idea that your surgeon did tell you to start taking iron. When I did donate my blood they had first checked my iron count and said that it was ideal. I did not feel at all dizzy as they had me lie down for the drawing. Afterwards they even gave me some juice to drink and wanted me to stay for an extra ten minutes but I couldn't wait to get out of there as I really don't like the sight of blood. I was surprised that this wasn't covered under my insurance and that I had to pay for this. I just kept thinking about all the times that I had donated blood and now I had to pay to use my own blood..... But they explained to me that this charge was to process and transfer the blood to the hospital. Would you believe that my surgeon never used it.....
:angel: Jeanne :angel:
dianaj85
06-29-2004, 09:25 AM
Hey Tracy!
My aunt only banked one unit of blood. I have donated before, and never felt dizzy or anything like that. But, everyone is different. The people who work there are usually very cautious about not having the donors sit up too soon, and, like Tomorrow said, you get free snacks afterwards! :bouncing: (We have to take anything we can get, right?!)
Just an update on how I'm doing. I am allowed to drive, now! At my 2 month visit, my doc said I could start swimming laps again. Yesterday I swam 17 laps, and it felt great! I am feeling sooooo much better than before surgery. I still have just a strange pulling sensation at the area of the hardware (maybe a small loss of mobility or something?), and sometimes a little stinging there, but so much less pain than before. I am able to sit a little more comfortably now, but some chairs just seem to be impossible. My doctor said that he may release me at my next visit in a couple of weeks. I am not doing any PT, since I am swimming and walking quite a bit. I am glad about that. I am really curious about what he'll tell me at my next visit. Seems early to be set free! I don't think I'll feel right about bending at the waist for a very long time, even if he tells me it's OK!
How's the toe?!!!
Melinda
My aunt only banked one unit of blood. I have donated before, and never felt dizzy or anything like that. But, everyone is different. The people who work there are usually very cautious about not having the donors sit up too soon, and, like Tomorrow said, you get free snacks afterwards! :bouncing: (We have to take anything we can get, right?!)
Just an update on how I'm doing. I am allowed to drive, now! At my 2 month visit, my doc said I could start swimming laps again. Yesterday I swam 17 laps, and it felt great! I am feeling sooooo much better than before surgery. I still have just a strange pulling sensation at the area of the hardware (maybe a small loss of mobility or something?), and sometimes a little stinging there, but so much less pain than before. I am able to sit a little more comfortably now, but some chairs just seem to be impossible. My doctor said that he may release me at my next visit in a couple of weeks. I am not doing any PT, since I am swimming and walking quite a bit. I am glad about that. I am really curious about what he'll tell me at my next visit. Seems early to be set free! I don't think I'll feel right about bending at the waist for a very long time, even if he tells me it's OK!
How's the toe?!!!
Melinda
Mistina
06-29-2004, 10:22 AM
Hi Melinda,
I was reading over you posts and it seems your situation could be a little bit like mine. Before your surgery that is. You said that the grinding of you bones was causing pain. That is totally what I'm experiencing and it is so hard to explain that to the docs.
My L4 L5 is 'collapsed' there isn't much there and my facet joints seem to be overloaded and rubbing together making it impossible for me to do ANYTHING. I had a discectomy/lamy last summer but it didn't help much as that disc is pretty much gone. I am due to have a cage fusion at that level at some point in the near future and I'm so terrified that nothing will help this problem. Did you 'bone' pain limit every single thing you tried to do. I have to stay straight ahead, sleep flat on my back without moving to my side and pretty much just stay robotlike because every time I move in certain ways, the bones rub and trap nerves, etc. I also don't have much nerve pain in the legs and such. It is so much bone pain in my back and I can't make it go away by laying down and I don't take meds really either. You are the first person I have really heard from that is the closest to my situation. Although, I could never swim at all. You should see me get in and out of a car. It's so annoying and I just want it to be over so I can get on with my life.
I am also one of those scoliosis girls that had a fusion in High School. It is T1 to L1 and now my problems are below it. But anyway, can you tell me what your "bone pain" was like and do you have it now?
Thanks,
Christina
I was reading over you posts and it seems your situation could be a little bit like mine. Before your surgery that is. You said that the grinding of you bones was causing pain. That is totally what I'm experiencing and it is so hard to explain that to the docs.
My L4 L5 is 'collapsed' there isn't much there and my facet joints seem to be overloaded and rubbing together making it impossible for me to do ANYTHING. I had a discectomy/lamy last summer but it didn't help much as that disc is pretty much gone. I am due to have a cage fusion at that level at some point in the near future and I'm so terrified that nothing will help this problem. Did you 'bone' pain limit every single thing you tried to do. I have to stay straight ahead, sleep flat on my back without moving to my side and pretty much just stay robotlike because every time I move in certain ways, the bones rub and trap nerves, etc. I also don't have much nerve pain in the legs and such. It is so much bone pain in my back and I can't make it go away by laying down and I don't take meds really either. You are the first person I have really heard from that is the closest to my situation. Although, I could never swim at all. You should see me get in and out of a car. It's so annoying and I just want it to be over so I can get on with my life.
I am also one of those scoliosis girls that had a fusion in High School. It is T1 to L1 and now my problems are below it. But anyway, can you tell me what your "bone pain" was like and do you have it now?
Thanks,
Christina
dianaj85
06-29-2004, 02:07 PM
Hey Christina!
You are right, it is hard to describe the pain! Mine would "lock me up".....if I were sitting, I couldn't stand up, if I'd been standing for any amount of time at all, I couldn't take a step to walk. I couldn't just relax....if I laid down in a recliner, or on a chaise at the pool, I just couldn't move to get up. Rolling over in bed was terrible! My husband had to roll me. It just felt like everything in there was grinding (and, come to find out, it was!). I would swim alot of laps pretty comfortably, then, could hardly get myself out of the pool or walk. I couldn't bend over. Doing normal household tasks like laundry would kill me. I carried on and dealt with the pain for a long time. I'd mow the yard, then lay on the couch for the rest of the day. Since I am a stay at home mom, I got to where I was feeling pretty useless and depressed! It did limit me, in that I'd decline invitations to do things with friends and family because I just felt so drained. I still did things around the house, but with great discomfort. And, unlike you, I could lay down on my side and would feel OK. So I did have some relief when I would just stop all activity. I guess you've read my posts, so you know all of the things I tried before surgery.
I am very very much better, much to my relief! After trying so many things that didn't work, and after reading some of the horror stories here, it was easy to think that I'd never be better. I can get up and down much better now. The grinding is gone. I swam 25 laps today, and got up out of the pool easily, and then walked for 20 minutes! I don't bend, yet, and don't lift, or twist. So....we'll see how I do with that later on down the road. But, for now, I am so pleased! I can do all of the things that used to lock me up before my surgery. I didn't have a cage, by the way. 4 pedicle screws, and 2 rods.
I hope your surgery can fix you! It doesn't sound like you have much spine left that isn't fused!
If there are any other questions you might have, I'll try to answer them!
Melinda
You are right, it is hard to describe the pain! Mine would "lock me up".....if I were sitting, I couldn't stand up, if I'd been standing for any amount of time at all, I couldn't take a step to walk. I couldn't just relax....if I laid down in a recliner, or on a chaise at the pool, I just couldn't move to get up. Rolling over in bed was terrible! My husband had to roll me. It just felt like everything in there was grinding (and, come to find out, it was!). I would swim alot of laps pretty comfortably, then, could hardly get myself out of the pool or walk. I couldn't bend over. Doing normal household tasks like laundry would kill me. I carried on and dealt with the pain for a long time. I'd mow the yard, then lay on the couch for the rest of the day. Since I am a stay at home mom, I got to where I was feeling pretty useless and depressed! It did limit me, in that I'd decline invitations to do things with friends and family because I just felt so drained. I still did things around the house, but with great discomfort. And, unlike you, I could lay down on my side and would feel OK. So I did have some relief when I would just stop all activity. I guess you've read my posts, so you know all of the things I tried before surgery.
I am very very much better, much to my relief! After trying so many things that didn't work, and after reading some of the horror stories here, it was easy to think that I'd never be better. I can get up and down much better now. The grinding is gone. I swam 25 laps today, and got up out of the pool easily, and then walked for 20 minutes! I don't bend, yet, and don't lift, or twist. So....we'll see how I do with that later on down the road. But, for now, I am so pleased! I can do all of the things that used to lock me up before my surgery. I didn't have a cage, by the way. 4 pedicle screws, and 2 rods.
I hope your surgery can fix you! It doesn't sound like you have much spine left that isn't fused!
If there are any other questions you might have, I'll try to answer them!
Melinda
Mistina
06-29-2004, 05:55 PM
Hi Melinda,
Thanks for the response. I know what you mean by the locking up. But when I get that 'feeling' it causes pain and then if I overdo it, I'm on the couch for a couple of days recovering. It's almost like I'm wrenching my back in a way it doesn't want to go cause the joints no longer move that way. I don't know how to say it. Yes, rolling over in bed in really exhausting. I cannot sleep on my side because if I'm in that position, it's like the bones are rubbing together the whole time. There are certain positions that seem to relieve the rubbing. Do you know what I mean?
I have a question. I forgot to ask the doctor and I was sitting here wondering. If they fuse that level and it's the painful movement of the 'bones' and joints that cause the pain does fusing that level make it so the facet joints don't move over each other anymore. I'm wondering if you know this. I would think that fusing them makes the joints also immobile but I'm not sure!
You were brave with mowing the lawn and swimming pre-surgery. I could NEVER do that or I will be asking for more problems and pain. If I sweep the floor or pick up a gallon of milk the wrong way, I'm in pain for days and usually make my situation worse. That's what makes me wonder sometimes if I'm the only one that feels like I do!
Thanks,
Christina
Thanks for the response. I know what you mean by the locking up. But when I get that 'feeling' it causes pain and then if I overdo it, I'm on the couch for a couple of days recovering. It's almost like I'm wrenching my back in a way it doesn't want to go cause the joints no longer move that way. I don't know how to say it. Yes, rolling over in bed in really exhausting. I cannot sleep on my side because if I'm in that position, it's like the bones are rubbing together the whole time. There are certain positions that seem to relieve the rubbing. Do you know what I mean?
I have a question. I forgot to ask the doctor and I was sitting here wondering. If they fuse that level and it's the painful movement of the 'bones' and joints that cause the pain does fusing that level make it so the facet joints don't move over each other anymore. I'm wondering if you know this. I would think that fusing them makes the joints also immobile but I'm not sure!
You were brave with mowing the lawn and swimming pre-surgery. I could NEVER do that or I will be asking for more problems and pain. If I sweep the floor or pick up a gallon of milk the wrong way, I'm in pain for days and usually make my situation worse. That's what makes me wonder sometimes if I'm the only one that feels like I do!
Thanks,
Christina
dianaj85
06-29-2004, 10:52 PM
Hello Christina!
There were definitely good and bad positions for me. If I'd been standing for any time at all, I felt like I needed to squat down and curl out my back. Like I needed to stretch it out, but couldn't. At night, I did curl up on my side to be comfortable. That was the only comfortable position I could get into. A recliner, or on my back was out of the question. I can be comfortable in most any position, now. I don't lie on my stomach, but I don't think I'm allowed, and it's not good for the back and neck from what I've heard.
I've been trying to get a grip on the anatomy of the spine from my pediatrician husband. It seems that fusing the vertebrae together would stop all movement at the facet joint. We are certainly not experts in this area! The vertebrae grow together to form essentially one bone, so therefore no more movement, and, hopefully, less pain.
I had spondylolisthesis....on side Xray, my vertebrae were sitting right on top of each other, with no disk. And L5 was slipped way forward from the normal position. I don't really know what all the parts were that were rubbing, but I do know that I feel better now! My surgeon was able to reduce the amount of the slip, so now my bones are nearly where they should be, and, I suppose, growing together now. I also had a laminectomy to free up the nerve space. My side Xray immediately after the surgery shows some space between the bones, held together by the hardware.
If you are getting a cage, are they operating from the front? Mine was from the back.
Good luck with everything! It is not a fun thing to deal with, and the uncertainty of the outcome only makes matters worse. There are some good results on this board, and I hope to continue to be one!
Melinda
There were definitely good and bad positions for me. If I'd been standing for any time at all, I felt like I needed to squat down and curl out my back. Like I needed to stretch it out, but couldn't. At night, I did curl up on my side to be comfortable. That was the only comfortable position I could get into. A recliner, or on my back was out of the question. I can be comfortable in most any position, now. I don't lie on my stomach, but I don't think I'm allowed, and it's not good for the back and neck from what I've heard.
I've been trying to get a grip on the anatomy of the spine from my pediatrician husband. It seems that fusing the vertebrae together would stop all movement at the facet joint. We are certainly not experts in this area! The vertebrae grow together to form essentially one bone, so therefore no more movement, and, hopefully, less pain.
I had spondylolisthesis....on side Xray, my vertebrae were sitting right on top of each other, with no disk. And L5 was slipped way forward from the normal position. I don't really know what all the parts were that were rubbing, but I do know that I feel better now! My surgeon was able to reduce the amount of the slip, so now my bones are nearly where they should be, and, I suppose, growing together now. I also had a laminectomy to free up the nerve space. My side Xray immediately after the surgery shows some space between the bones, held together by the hardware.
If you are getting a cage, are they operating from the front? Mine was from the back.
Good luck with everything! It is not a fun thing to deal with, and the uncertainty of the outcome only makes matters worse. There are some good results on this board, and I hope to continue to be one!
Melinda
Mistina
06-30-2004, 09:54 AM
Hi Meilinda,
I don't know if they are operating from the front or back yet. I have to go see yet another doctor here in PA. I originally went to NYC to see a specialist for my scoliosis and such but he is really really expensive. I would have to have $10,000 to $15, 000 up front for him to operate. That's impossible for me. He gave me a doctors name here in PA that is capable of the surgery and does take my insurance. Soooo, I'm waiting for this doctor to contact me after sending him a letter and my information. So, it's just a roller coaster of events right now. I can't wait to 'try' this surgery. I am seriously at my wits end with this and so is my fiance. I want to get on with my life and have a child, some how. But, thanks for chatting. Like I said, you seem to be the closest to my situation.
When you did flare up before your surgery, did your sacrum and that area get really sore and painful?
Thanks again,
Christina
I don't know if they are operating from the front or back yet. I have to go see yet another doctor here in PA. I originally went to NYC to see a specialist for my scoliosis and such but he is really really expensive. I would have to have $10,000 to $15, 000 up front for him to operate. That's impossible for me. He gave me a doctors name here in PA that is capable of the surgery and does take my insurance. Soooo, I'm waiting for this doctor to contact me after sending him a letter and my information. So, it's just a roller coaster of events right now. I can't wait to 'try' this surgery. I am seriously at my wits end with this and so is my fiance. I want to get on with my life and have a child, some how. But, thanks for chatting. Like I said, you seem to be the closest to my situation.
When you did flare up before your surgery, did your sacrum and that area get really sore and painful?
Thanks again,
Christina
dianaj85
06-30-2004, 10:35 AM
Christina,
My pain was all in the area of the sacrum. I didn't exactly have flare-ups. It was more chronic, all the time. I could wake up in the morning and think "Wow! I feel almost normal!", and within 10 minutes the pain would begin, and get progressively worse throughout the day. It was worse on days that I did much, and better when I just laid around, but always present. Very annoying! I used a tens unit to "distract" me from it, but it didn't really work. Neither did the epidural injections (or traction, or PT, or ultrasound!).
What have doctors said about pregnancy? I'm glad I have had my children already, although I believe my fracture happened when I was 8 months pregnant with my daughter 10 yrs. ago. My back went out for the 1st time then, to the point that I could hardly walk. It did get better for a while after that, but I was in some serious pain at that point, and never got it checked out. I was so incrediby huge, and only 5 ft. tall....my back was severely arched, and my doc thinks I may have gotten the stress fracture then. Since my injury was so old at the time it was diagnosed, we will never know for sure.
I hope you get your insurance stuff worked out....mine was nearly completely covered ($500 co-pay), but I did, in part, choose my doc based on the fact that he took my insurance. It can be exhausting.
Hang in there! Melinda
My pain was all in the area of the sacrum. I didn't exactly have flare-ups. It was more chronic, all the time. I could wake up in the morning and think "Wow! I feel almost normal!", and within 10 minutes the pain would begin, and get progressively worse throughout the day. It was worse on days that I did much, and better when I just laid around, but always present. Very annoying! I used a tens unit to "distract" me from it, but it didn't really work. Neither did the epidural injections (or traction, or PT, or ultrasound!).
What have doctors said about pregnancy? I'm glad I have had my children already, although I believe my fracture happened when I was 8 months pregnant with my daughter 10 yrs. ago. My back went out for the 1st time then, to the point that I could hardly walk. It did get better for a while after that, but I was in some serious pain at that point, and never got it checked out. I was so incrediby huge, and only 5 ft. tall....my back was severely arched, and my doc thinks I may have gotten the stress fracture then. Since my injury was so old at the time it was diagnosed, we will never know for sure.
I hope you get your insurance stuff worked out....mine was nearly completely covered ($500 co-pay), but I did, in part, choose my doc based on the fact that he took my insurance. It can be exhausting.
Hang in there! Melinda
tracy72
06-30-2004, 07:39 PM
Hi everyone,
I live in Canada so our goverment pays for all of our health care.So i don`t have to worry about medical bills.Somtimes i think to myself,am i making the right choice by having this surgery? Or should i just deal with the pain until i cannot tolerate it anymore and then have the surgery.The doctor did give me the option of having another discotomy on the same disk that was already operated on or to just leave it until both disks herniate and then have the fusion.So i thought,I would rather have the surgery to have it completely taken care of so i don`t have to keep going in to have multiple surgeries on the same disk or disks.I am sort of worried that my scoliosis will bother me alot more after the surgery.I told my doctor just to get it over with and fuse me all the way up to the neck ;) l.Oh my toe is doing fine,thanks for asking :) It`s a little bit stiff still and it feel really discusting when i try to bend it down.It`s like there is a bone sticking up that just will not bend.Actually,i stubbed it the other day :eek:
Take care,
Tracy
I live in Canada so our goverment pays for all of our health care.So i don`t have to worry about medical bills.Somtimes i think to myself,am i making the right choice by having this surgery? Or should i just deal with the pain until i cannot tolerate it anymore and then have the surgery.The doctor did give me the option of having another discotomy on the same disk that was already operated on or to just leave it until both disks herniate and then have the fusion.So i thought,I would rather have the surgery to have it completely taken care of so i don`t have to keep going in to have multiple surgeries on the same disk or disks.I am sort of worried that my scoliosis will bother me alot more after the surgery.I told my doctor just to get it over with and fuse me all the way up to the neck ;) l.Oh my toe is doing fine,thanks for asking :) It`s a little bit stiff still and it feel really discusting when i try to bend it down.It`s like there is a bone sticking up that just will not bend.Actually,i stubbed it the other day :eek:
Take care,
Tracy
Mistina
07-06-2004, 07:54 AM
Hi Tracy,
I wish you all of the luck in the world with your fusion surgery. I'm sure that your fears are the same as mine. I often worry about being worse off after surgery. Although, I can't imagine being worse than I am now. I am ready to jump on that gurney right now! I have to wait to see the doctor and that isn't until Sept. 1st. Then I'll hopefully schedule the surgery once I decide if he's a good choice surgeon for this since I too have scoliosis and have had previous fusion surgery.
Good luck with everything and I hope you keep us posted. I'm usually on the "Back Problems" board but I hope to remember to look you up on here or come join us over there!!
Melinda,
thanks for all of your kind words. I sincerely hope that I have a great outcome as you did. I cannot take this 'locking up'/'catching' feeling anymore. It feels like someone is taking an ax to the bones of my spine!
Love and prayers,
Christina
I wish you all of the luck in the world with your fusion surgery. I'm sure that your fears are the same as mine. I often worry about being worse off after surgery. Although, I can't imagine being worse than I am now. I am ready to jump on that gurney right now! I have to wait to see the doctor and that isn't until Sept. 1st. Then I'll hopefully schedule the surgery once I decide if he's a good choice surgeon for this since I too have scoliosis and have had previous fusion surgery.
Good luck with everything and I hope you keep us posted. I'm usually on the "Back Problems" board but I hope to remember to look you up on here or come join us over there!!
Melinda,
thanks for all of your kind words. I sincerely hope that I have a great outcome as you did. I cannot take this 'locking up'/'catching' feeling anymore. It feels like someone is taking an ax to the bones of my spine!
Love and prayers,
Christina
dianaj85
07-06-2004, 03:27 PM
Hi Tracy and Christina!
I just wanted you both to know how good I've been feeling! :bouncing: Today I hit the 3 month mark, and I just can't believe how good I feel! I have so much more energy than before my surgery, and my attitude is so much improved! Today I went to the pool and swam 30 laps, with no pain (a little tugging back there, maybe), and was able to get out of the pool with no pain. Walking doesn't hurt, anymore, and neither does standing. I am feeling so much more like my old self (from 10 years, ago!). The past couple of weeks, I have been feeling less and less like a surgical patient, and more like the rest of the healthy world.
I am still very careful, and am only doing what my doctor says to do, but I just thought you two might want to hear some positive news. I can say, now, that I am so glad I had my surgery, and wish I had done it two years ago, when my pain all got worse! Good luck with all of your decisions, and I will try to keep up with your situations! Keep your fingers crossed that I keep healing as I have been, and that I don't mess up!
Thanks!
Melinda
I just wanted you both to know how good I've been feeling! :bouncing: Today I hit the 3 month mark, and I just can't believe how good I feel! I have so much more energy than before my surgery, and my attitude is so much improved! Today I went to the pool and swam 30 laps, with no pain (a little tugging back there, maybe), and was able to get out of the pool with no pain. Walking doesn't hurt, anymore, and neither does standing. I am feeling so much more like my old self (from 10 years, ago!). The past couple of weeks, I have been feeling less and less like a surgical patient, and more like the rest of the healthy world.
I am still very careful, and am only doing what my doctor says to do, but I just thought you two might want to hear some positive news. I can say, now, that I am so glad I had my surgery, and wish I had done it two years ago, when my pain all got worse! Good luck with all of your decisions, and I will try to keep up with your situations! Keep your fingers crossed that I keep healing as I have been, and that I don't mess up!
Thanks!
Melinda
tracy72
08-15-2004, 06:26 PM
Hi Melinda,
It is so nice to hear that you are doing so well.I hope that my outcome is as good as yours.My sugery is quickly approaching and i am getting so scared.But i think my problem is not letting other people have control of me(i guess thats the mother in me,always in control)lol.But i am going to try and just put my trust in the nurses and doctors and hope that all goes well.There is one question that keeps nagging at me and that is,with the hardware that they put in your back ie screws,brackets.Do you have to have them taken out after awhile?Or does it depend upon the person?
Take care,
Tracy
It is so nice to hear that you are doing so well.I hope that my outcome is as good as yours.My sugery is quickly approaching and i am getting so scared.But i think my problem is not letting other people have control of me(i guess thats the mother in me,always in control)lol.But i am going to try and just put my trust in the nurses and doctors and hope that all goes well.There is one question that keeps nagging at me and that is,with the hardware that they put in your back ie screws,brackets.Do you have to have them taken out after awhile?Or does it depend upon the person?
Take care,
Tracy
dianaj85
08-16-2004, 04:23 PM
Trying to post....having problems....this is a test
dianaj85
08-16-2004, 04:34 PM
OK, Tracy. Sorry about that last post. This is my 3rd attempt!
My doctor said that the hardware stays in forever. From what I've seen here, some people have problems, but the surgery to remove the hardware seems much easier than fusion....with recovery being on the order of a couple of weeks, as opposed to months for fusion.
It is hard to feel out of control. You just have to be confident in your choice of a surgeon, and be sure that you've exhausted all other options. Once I made up my mind, I never looked back. It is hard not to worry that it might not work, or about recovery. I sure did my fair share of that. I am glad it's behind me. It is also extremely humbling to rely so much on other for basic needs....like showering, eating, reaching things, rolling over in bed (for a while), etc. If you are like me, and used to doing it all, and living in your car, it is hard to come to such an abrupt halt. I was used to hauling kids around all day, then suddenly, wasn't allowed to even be in a car. It was a bit like in house arrest! LOL. Seriously, though, it only lasts for a while, then, hopefully, you'll be better! It was hard for me to get the emotional energy up to even get out of bed on the days I was home alone. Since I couldn't do anything, anyway, I figured what was the use in getting up. That depressed time seems to hit alot of us in the 3rd or 4th week, from what I've seen!
I am still doing great. I have done some yard work, and helped to finish off our basement. I was sore all over, but no more in my back than anywhere else! I am looking forward to resuming my walking and swimming once the kids are back in school. I need to strengthen those back muscles to try to prevent any more trouble!
Please keep me updated! When is your surgery? I would love it if you can make it to the computer and let me know how you are afterwards!
Melinda
My doctor said that the hardware stays in forever. From what I've seen here, some people have problems, but the surgery to remove the hardware seems much easier than fusion....with recovery being on the order of a couple of weeks, as opposed to months for fusion.
It is hard to feel out of control. You just have to be confident in your choice of a surgeon, and be sure that you've exhausted all other options. Once I made up my mind, I never looked back. It is hard not to worry that it might not work, or about recovery. I sure did my fair share of that. I am glad it's behind me. It is also extremely humbling to rely so much on other for basic needs....like showering, eating, reaching things, rolling over in bed (for a while), etc. If you are like me, and used to doing it all, and living in your car, it is hard to come to such an abrupt halt. I was used to hauling kids around all day, then suddenly, wasn't allowed to even be in a car. It was a bit like in house arrest! LOL. Seriously, though, it only lasts for a while, then, hopefully, you'll be better! It was hard for me to get the emotional energy up to even get out of bed on the days I was home alone. Since I couldn't do anything, anyway, I figured what was the use in getting up. That depressed time seems to hit alot of us in the 3rd or 4th week, from what I've seen!
I am still doing great. I have done some yard work, and helped to finish off our basement. I was sore all over, but no more in my back than anywhere else! I am looking forward to resuming my walking and swimming once the kids are back in school. I need to strengthen those back muscles to try to prevent any more trouble!
Please keep me updated! When is your surgery? I would love it if you can make it to the computer and let me know how you are afterwards!
Melinda
tracy72
08-22-2004, 02:55 AM
Hi Melinda,
My surgery is August 26th.I am so glad that you are doing well.It makes me feel alot better about my situation.I was wondering,what was it like when you woke up after the surgery?How many days did you stay in the hospital? My doctor told me that i had to stay for five days.I cannot even imagine being away from my kids for that long.Especially my girls whom are always stuck right to my side wherever i go.The reason why i am having this surgery is because i was diagnosed with a massive herniation of the L5-S1(cuada Equina).Six months later i had pain in that same area.It turned out that the disk that was operated on herniated again and the disk above it has lost all of the fluid and it has a tear.So that one is ready to herniate as well.I think it already has.Something new is happening to me now,I really don`t know how to explain it.My foot all of a sudden cramps up,the pain is unbearable.It happened tonight and i really thought i was going to die from the pain.When i looked at the side of my foot it looked as though everything was being sucked in!?! Can anyone tell me what is happening to me? Melinda,Thank you so much for sharing your information with me.Without you guys i would be lost.You guys feel like my second family!!
Take care,
Tracy
My surgery is August 26th.I am so glad that you are doing well.It makes me feel alot better about my situation.I was wondering,what was it like when you woke up after the surgery?How many days did you stay in the hospital? My doctor told me that i had to stay for five days.I cannot even imagine being away from my kids for that long.Especially my girls whom are always stuck right to my side wherever i go.The reason why i am having this surgery is because i was diagnosed with a massive herniation of the L5-S1(cuada Equina).Six months later i had pain in that same area.It turned out that the disk that was operated on herniated again and the disk above it has lost all of the fluid and it has a tear.So that one is ready to herniate as well.I think it already has.Something new is happening to me now,I really don`t know how to explain it.My foot all of a sudden cramps up,the pain is unbearable.It happened tonight and i really thought i was going to die from the pain.When i looked at the side of my foot it looked as though everything was being sucked in!?! Can anyone tell me what is happening to me? Melinda,Thank you so much for sharing your information with me.Without you guys i would be lost.You guys feel like my second family!!
Take care,
Tracy
dianaj85
08-24-2004, 09:11 AM
Tracy,
Wow.....just a couple of more days. I will be praying for you. I actually felt better coming out of this surgery than with prior surgeries. I had told anesthesia that I typically have nausea after anesthesia in recovery, and they "gave me something" to keep me from having that. It made a HUGE difference not to be shaking and vomiting in the recovery room. The pain meds kept me from hurting too badly for the first few hours. But, it is really hard to move, and I was up and "walking" to the restroom that very evening, as I had my catheter removed early. THAT was hard. It hurt alot, and I felt shaky, and nauseated from the pain and the strain of just trying to stand and walk. On the positive side.....every single hour is better and better after the first day. Sometimes it's hard to see that when you are in the middle of it, but it is true. I got up and walked the hallways to combat the pain (when I was restlessly trying to get comfortable in bed).....it helped me mentally if nothing else. It can get you down to not be able to sleep when you feel you need it. Take your pain meds regularly for the first couple of weeks at least. I didn't wait for the nurse.....I just called when the 4 hours was up. You'll be OK without your kids. You will be taking pain meds, and not much feel like anything! Mine came to see me, and it was nice. I was also supposed to be in for 4 days, but only was in 2. My kids were awesome for me at home. They waited on me, and took care of me. They were eager to help.
Gosh...I don't know about all of your other problems with your condition. I pray that your surgery will fix that! Is is "foot drop"? I didn't have the typical neurological problems that alot of people here do......
Good luck to you on Thursday, and let me know if I can answer any more questions!
Melinda
Wow.....just a couple of more days. I will be praying for you. I actually felt better coming out of this surgery than with prior surgeries. I had told anesthesia that I typically have nausea after anesthesia in recovery, and they "gave me something" to keep me from having that. It made a HUGE difference not to be shaking and vomiting in the recovery room. The pain meds kept me from hurting too badly for the first few hours. But, it is really hard to move, and I was up and "walking" to the restroom that very evening, as I had my catheter removed early. THAT was hard. It hurt alot, and I felt shaky, and nauseated from the pain and the strain of just trying to stand and walk. On the positive side.....every single hour is better and better after the first day. Sometimes it's hard to see that when you are in the middle of it, but it is true. I got up and walked the hallways to combat the pain (when I was restlessly trying to get comfortable in bed).....it helped me mentally if nothing else. It can get you down to not be able to sleep when you feel you need it. Take your pain meds regularly for the first couple of weeks at least. I didn't wait for the nurse.....I just called when the 4 hours was up. You'll be OK without your kids. You will be taking pain meds, and not much feel like anything! Mine came to see me, and it was nice. I was also supposed to be in for 4 days, but only was in 2. My kids were awesome for me at home. They waited on me, and took care of me. They were eager to help.
Gosh...I don't know about all of your other problems with your condition. I pray that your surgery will fix that! Is is "foot drop"? I didn't have the typical neurological problems that alot of people here do......
Good luck to you on Thursday, and let me know if I can answer any more questions!
Melinda
tracy72
09-01-2004, 05:42 PM
Hi Everyone,
I am back from surgery i was released four days after some horrific treatment by the nurses i must say.The surgery was the 26th i got home on the 30th.
I will explain everything in a later post because i am not sure how much longer i can sit here.I just wanted to let all of you know that.If i would have known i was going to be in that much agony i really would have waited until my pain was completely out of control.I might just be saying this now because i am only 6 days post-op.But oh my God,i thought i was going to die!!
On top off all of that pain, the prescription i was sent home with (Oxycontin)could not be filled until i had a special paper from the surgeon.So i had to suffer from three o`clock pm until 1 o`clock in the afternoon the next day.All i had was one extra strength tylenol and you guys know how well that works for us.Not to mention the morphene withdrawl symptoms i was having from the hospital.Oh and i really don`t want to mention this but i have too.I also came on my period the day i came home and i had a badder infection!!! Don`t worry though i am sort of laughing this off now because now i have my oxyconton`s.So how was your day? lol
Take care everyone!!
Tracy
I am back from surgery i was released four days after some horrific treatment by the nurses i must say.The surgery was the 26th i got home on the 30th.
I will explain everything in a later post because i am not sure how much longer i can sit here.I just wanted to let all of you know that.If i would have known i was going to be in that much agony i really would have waited until my pain was completely out of control.I might just be saying this now because i am only 6 days post-op.But oh my God,i thought i was going to die!!
On top off all of that pain, the prescription i was sent home with (Oxycontin)could not be filled until i had a special paper from the surgeon.So i had to suffer from three o`clock pm until 1 o`clock in the afternoon the next day.All i had was one extra strength tylenol and you guys know how well that works for us.Not to mention the morphene withdrawl symptoms i was having from the hospital.Oh and i really don`t want to mention this but i have too.I also came on my period the day i came home and i had a badder infection!!! Don`t worry though i am sort of laughing this off now because now i have my oxyconton`s.So how was your day? lol
Take care everyone!!
Tracy
nero
09-02-2004, 08:02 AM
AWWWH! You poor dear.
I did have the same physical nonsense transpire with me and since April's lumbar surgery still didn't feel "bladder right" till now and have had a bladder infection all this time thinking it was part of recovery. Plus the female stuff the day of surgery.. so you feel like you have been hit with a mac truck.
The pain you suffered is not inconceivable for what you have had done to you but the fact you had to suffer is really ignorant on their part... my hospital lost all my meds and upon exiting I none returned to me. Thank god the surgeon did write a prescription though so until it was filled I stood in my ensuite holding on to the towel rack in utter despair.
You are a survivor like me.. that counts for something ,,,, and although I have an extremely sensitive and giving husband, tonight, just five months after lumbar surgery and less than a year from cervical fusion .. he told me "jokingly" I don't have it so bad because we have a few nice new cars in the driveway and a beautiful home and I don't work....I would rather go back to my two jobs I had prior to this injury and major pain which changes with surgery but never quite goes away ... then all the cars and comforts in the world. That's why you have to have this board to talk to people who have gone down this path to really understand how close you come to losing your mind through all this pain.. and YET WE SURVIVE IT through pure will and determination and hope..
So hang in there you little TOUGHIE!!!
Sincerely, trying to be, nearly new again Nero
I did have the same physical nonsense transpire with me and since April's lumbar surgery still didn't feel "bladder right" till now and have had a bladder infection all this time thinking it was part of recovery. Plus the female stuff the day of surgery.. so you feel like you have been hit with a mac truck.
The pain you suffered is not inconceivable for what you have had done to you but the fact you had to suffer is really ignorant on their part... my hospital lost all my meds and upon exiting I none returned to me. Thank god the surgeon did write a prescription though so until it was filled I stood in my ensuite holding on to the towel rack in utter despair.
You are a survivor like me.. that counts for something ,,,, and although I have an extremely sensitive and giving husband, tonight, just five months after lumbar surgery and less than a year from cervical fusion .. he told me "jokingly" I don't have it so bad because we have a few nice new cars in the driveway and a beautiful home and I don't work....I would rather go back to my two jobs I had prior to this injury and major pain which changes with surgery but never quite goes away ... then all the cars and comforts in the world. That's why you have to have this board to talk to people who have gone down this path to really understand how close you come to losing your mind through all this pain.. and YET WE SURVIVE IT through pure will and determination and hope..
So hang in there you little TOUGHIE!!!
Sincerely, trying to be, nearly new again Nero
dianaj85
09-02-2004, 09:32 AM
Hey Tracy! I am so glad you made it though, but what a shame to deal with the problems you have! You've been through the worst....I cannot imagine going through that first day home with no meds! How terrible! I do hope you are feeling better now that some of those issues are resolved. Those pain meds can make you pretty constipated, too, so try to take in fiber tabs or something, or you'll be having those kind of pains, too!
It is so good to hear from you. I have been wondering how you've done. Hang in there.....it will get better day by day. The first couple of weeks are grueling, but, I am sooo glad that I did it. I feel better than I have in a very, very long time.
Take it very easy, do ONLY what you are supposed to do, and keep us posted!
Melinda
It is so good to hear from you. I have been wondering how you've done. Hang in there.....it will get better day by day. The first couple of weeks are grueling, but, I am sooo glad that I did it. I feel better than I have in a very, very long time.
Take it very easy, do ONLY what you are supposed to do, and keep us posted!
Melinda
tracy72
09-02-2004, 09:21 PM
You guys are truly my bestfriends!!
You make me feel so much better,bring a smile to my face and a tear to my eye.You are so much more supportive of me than the people around me are.I paged the nurse twice to my room and twice they turned the page off.When i asked another nurse if she could put me on one she looked over and asked the other nurse in the hall that i could not see.So it was my nurse and she did and then left.I was stuck on the bedpan for five minutes while it leaked all over me and down my back.Another nurse came in, laughed and said boy you really did have to go.She never cleaned the pad underneath me or the bandage.The resident did the next day.So i am pretty sure that he could smell the urine.After that nurse did that to me i phoned my sister crying and told what had happened and of course she said she was going to call the nurse and complain.I asked her not to,because you know what happens when you complain about one nurse.They all get you.That is exactly what they did.They countiued it for two more days.Another nurse left me on a bedpan again,she tried for ten minutes.But i slowly removed it myself being careful not to spill any on myself.The rest of it was leaving alone from 9:45 till 3 am without checking my vitals.I woke up covered in sweat.The window was opened and when the ice cold wind blew on me i thought i was going to die.My call button was on the floor.By 3:15 the nurse did show her presance and the argued about giving me my medication..........
You make me feel so much better,bring a smile to my face and a tear to my eye.You are so much more supportive of me than the people around me are.I paged the nurse twice to my room and twice they turned the page off.When i asked another nurse if she could put me on one she looked over and asked the other nurse in the hall that i could not see.So it was my nurse and she did and then left.I was stuck on the bedpan for five minutes while it leaked all over me and down my back.Another nurse came in, laughed and said boy you really did have to go.She never cleaned the pad underneath me or the bandage.The resident did the next day.So i am pretty sure that he could smell the urine.After that nurse did that to me i phoned my sister crying and told what had happened and of course she said she was going to call the nurse and complain.I asked her not to,because you know what happens when you complain about one nurse.They all get you.That is exactly what they did.They countiued it for two more days.Another nurse left me on a bedpan again,she tried for ten minutes.But i slowly removed it myself being careful not to spill any on myself.The rest of it was leaving alone from 9:45 till 3 am without checking my vitals.I woke up covered in sweat.The window was opened and when the ice cold wind blew on me i thought i was going to die.My call button was on the floor.By 3:15 the nurse did show her presance and the argued about giving me my medication..........
tracy72
09-02-2004, 09:24 PM
When i finally seen my doctor walking by my room i said go and ask the doctor,i just seen him walk past.She said okay and 10 minutes later i seen her leave.Her shift had ended she never asked him.
I will post the discharge day tomorrow.That was just as bad.
Take care,
Tracy
I will post the discharge day tomorrow.That was just as bad.
Take care,
Tracy
dianaj85
09-03-2004, 02:22 PM
Oh wow! What a NIGHTMARE! I was so fortunate to have my husband with me the whole time, and my nurses were wonderful! It seems like you got such rotten care!
I am glad I didn't have to use a bedpan, too! You should not have had to do that on your own. You could have hurt yourself. I know that nurses are understaffed and underpaid, but things like that just should not happen. My husband is a doctor (not in the same hospital), and I often wonder what kind of treatment I would receive if he weren't. I just don't seem to have the frustrations with healthcare that so many do. I feel very fortunate. He has always stepped up and done for me, too, when nurses were unavailable. He's not afraid to just go get someone, or something, when I need it. And, he's done the "yucky" stuff for me when nurses weren't around. It can be very humbling!
Did you get all of the things you needed before you left the hospital, like a walker, or hospital bed? I came home with a hospital bed....then 2 days later, my insurance company called. It was not a covered item, so they came and took it! At least I didn't have to pay for the hospital's mistake. I really liked having it, though. It made it easier to get up and down.
Are you feeling any better, now? It's now been a week and a day, right? Seems like I was starting to feel a little bit human by that point! I went something like 8 hours with no Vicadin about 1 week post-op, and ended up with a HUGE headache. I have migraines, and this one was a doozy....I felt like throwing up. It was pretty miserable. I think it was from abruptly stopping the meds. I really didn't take much after that, except at night....but I am not a big medicine person. I would advise taking them as long as you need them, but then SLOWLY taper them off!
Hope you are doing much better at home than you were at the hospital!
Melinda
I am glad I didn't have to use a bedpan, too! You should not have had to do that on your own. You could have hurt yourself. I know that nurses are understaffed and underpaid, but things like that just should not happen. My husband is a doctor (not in the same hospital), and I often wonder what kind of treatment I would receive if he weren't. I just don't seem to have the frustrations with healthcare that so many do. I feel very fortunate. He has always stepped up and done for me, too, when nurses were unavailable. He's not afraid to just go get someone, or something, when I need it. And, he's done the "yucky" stuff for me when nurses weren't around. It can be very humbling!
Did you get all of the things you needed before you left the hospital, like a walker, or hospital bed? I came home with a hospital bed....then 2 days later, my insurance company called. It was not a covered item, so they came and took it! At least I didn't have to pay for the hospital's mistake. I really liked having it, though. It made it easier to get up and down.
Are you feeling any better, now? It's now been a week and a day, right? Seems like I was starting to feel a little bit human by that point! I went something like 8 hours with no Vicadin about 1 week post-op, and ended up with a HUGE headache. I have migraines, and this one was a doozy....I felt like throwing up. It was pretty miserable. I think it was from abruptly stopping the meds. I really didn't take much after that, except at night....but I am not a big medicine person. I would advise taking them as long as you need them, but then SLOWLY taper them off!
Hope you are doing much better at home than you were at the hospital!
Melinda