Baxter http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/wave.gif

I just wanted to wish you good luck tomorrow with your second opinion. I hope the doctor gives you straight answers and immediately takes action to correct your back problems. Tell them if nothing is done quickly you will lose your job. Maybe a guilt trip will expedite them to begin futher treatment!!!! Please let us know what the doctor says.

I guess I am a little tired. I hit the submit button without checking the spelling in the topic LOL!!!!

I worked in the yard today and over did it and my back mucles are sore and tight. Have you heard anything how long it takes for the muscles to heal? I have been exercising but I guess 9 months of not able to do very much takes alot longer to recover!!!! I just want to be able to do the things I used to but it is going to take alot longer than I expected.

Good luck tomorrow http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/t_up.gif



[This message has been edited by L5S1 (edited 05-26-2003).]

I second that!! Good luck!!

Hi Baxter! http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/wave.gif
Good luck from me as well, and please let us know how it all went. I think about you all the time, sorry I am not on here typing to you!!!!

All the best,
http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/heart.gif Telzey

------------------
4 years of back pain
Annular tear L5-S1 diagnosed 5/02 via MRI
IDET 12/2/02
1/26/03 Posterior disc prolapse occurs after sitting too long after walking. Causes new pain down left leg.
3/1/03 Leg pain reduced with exercises from the book "Treat Your Own Back" by Robin McKenzie.
3/9/03 Lateral disc prolapse causes buttock and thigh pain and numbness.
3/25/03 Used McKenzie techniques to treat disc prolapse -- pain reduced
4/4/03 Started physical therapy
5/8/03 Still worse than pre-IDET, but showing slow improvement with PT, McKenzie exercises, yoga, and Hanna Somatics exercises

Hi All, http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/wave.gif

You guys are the very best, thank you so much for thinking about me http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/heart.gif

I'm hoping in the shower and shining up my hammer http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/hammer.gif and leaving very shortly.
I promise to let you all know.
I hope he shares his opinions with me as well, even though he won't be the one to fix me.

L5S1,

Please be very careful, I don't want to see you back on the op table ever again, I think the doctor said the muscles also take a full year to be retrained and to gain back strength, but in your case maybe longer since they had to go back in and correct the hardware.
Hopefully you can find some relief from either heat or ice, I usually have to try them both to get results.

W Baker,

I hope that you are feeling better, I'm praying that the days go by very fast for the implant to be done, the waiting sure sucks.
Hang in there, help is on the way.

Telzey,

I hope that you are feeling better as well, please don't apologize for not posting, I know that you do what you can, and I fully understand.
Thanks so much for popping in, it means alot to me.
I think about you all of the time as well, and wish the best for you.

O.K. I better go before I miss my appointment, I will check back in later.

Have a super Tuesday http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/bouncing.gif

Be Well,
Baxter http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/heart.gif


------------------
Two level laminectomy fusion L5-S1 & L2-3 done on 12/6/02.
Fifteen inch scar from the very top of butt crack (sorry), to the bra line.
BAK cages, rods & screws.(Titanium)
My pelvic bone was used for grafting.
Praying that the other two discs in between, won't have to be fused later, as I was told it was a possibility, due to the other two discs in between, not being in that great of shape.
Doc didn't want to fuse four levels, unless it is really necessary.
I would hate to repeat the surgery, as the recovery period, is so very painful.
I also have a free fragment in my T11-12 area, that I'm still refusing surgery for, at this point in time.
That surgery is way too dangerous for me to consider, until if affects my being able to walk.

[This message has been edited by BAXTER (edited 05-27-2003).]

Good Luck Baxter! Go get 'em!!! http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/hammer.gif

Am sending http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/angel.gif your way and saying a prayer!

Karen

------------------
9/22/00 24 hour labor, baby posterior, left tailbone killing me
12/00 MRI - PCP said nothing amiss - but, had to begin taking vicodin
2/8/02 - 2nd baby born after long, painful pregnance as weight gain
2000-11/02 various PT + pain meds
11/02 Referred to Neuro
3/03 NEW MRI - shows slight bulge L3-L4,slight DDD Neuro Refers to PM for ESI
3/03 PM Doc orders ESI
3/21,4/1,4/8 - ESI's no help
5/9 - Discogram - shows Tear L4 w/ significant leak onto nerves, DDD
Doc sched NEW discogram 'cuz performing doc oversedated, False Negative
New Consult w/ Dept Head Cleveland Clinic 7/8

Hi Baxter http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/wave.gif

Good luck to you at your appointment today! I hope they give you the answers that you are looking for.

I will say a prayer that everything goes the way you want it to. Hopefully, you will finally get your answers to what is causing you all your pain.

Please keep us posted.

Take Care,
Brenda http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/heart.gif

hi baxter http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/wave.gif i too wanted to wish you good luck!!! sandy http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/smile.gif

Hi All, http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/wave.gif

Thank you all so much for wishing me good luck today.
Well, it didn't go as I planned, but it did go as I expected http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/hammer.gif
Did I ever tell you that I hate $^%&*$% doctors http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/hammer.gif
The last statement that I made as the doctor walked out the door was "what am I supposed to do now, shoot myself" His reply was "please don't do that"

He said that all of the hardware looks fine, even though I insisted something is wrong !!
He said that neither him or my doctor would ever attempt a hardware removal with me until I get at least 9-12 months into the fusion process, as there is no guarantee that I will even feel better after a hardware removal, and might even get worse with a hardware removal because of the magnitude of the surgery that I had, and I'm just not fused enough at this stage of the game.
They will not just go back in to look around at this time, even if I think some of the hardware just needs some adjusting.

He said this recovery would be worse than before because I'm not healed enough inside, and I would find it hard to find any doctor who would agree to go back in this soon.
I do trust these doctors opinions, as much as I disagree and feel that something is wrong, so I have decided to just give this a few more months and see if I can get any improvement.
I'm not going to get a 3rd opinion, as I just don't want to be let down again, and now my gut instinct is telling me to give this healing stage more time regardless of my opinion in the matter, plus what if they are right in the end ?? then I would look like a fool to be questioning their judgement.
I just have no fight left in me at this time.

He said that they both believe that most of my problem is muscular, meaning that the muscles need to calm down and relax against the instruments, not so much the instruments causing trouble with the muscles, if that makes sense. He said the muscles rubbing up against the hardware is what's making me feel like it's a hardware problem, but once the muscles heal, that I should then see some relief.
He did assure me that once I get to about 9 months into the fusion process, and if I still feel the same, that they would then do a hardware removal, but would feel better having me go the full year of fusing.
If I rush into a surgery now, and if it doesn't work, I will then be kicking myself in the As* for not giving myself enough time to heal, especially if there is a chance I might get worse.
I so much want my body to cooperate and heal properly, as every aspect of my life right now is just falling apart in front of my eyes, and things will not get better until I'm feeling well enough to return to work.

He also told me that 40% of people that had a lumbar fusion such as mine, never return to work regardless if they have a labor related job, or a desk job, I was floored to hear that !! Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!!
as I recall my surgeon telling me that 80% of people find relief, not get worse !!

He has seen the same complaints and concerns before, and he told me that in my case, most of the important healing will take place between 6-12 months because of the muscular issues, so we shall see..................

He is meeting with my doctor on Thursday, so he said unless they come up with a different plan for me, I more than likely will not be getting a follow up call from my doctor, and I would be able to discuss this with my doctor on my 6/4 visit.

So, that's my story, and all I can say is Thank God for Xanax, because if I didn't have that right now, I'm afraid of what I would do.

Thank you all for listening, you just being there makes this all easier to endure, it really does http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/heart.gif

Maybe I'm just being too impatient, I will work hard on my patience skills, because it looks like I have a long road ahead to travel.

I hope that you are all having a great day and that the pain levels are down for the start of the week http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/angel.gif

Be Well,
Baxter http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/heart.gif http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/love2.gif

------------------
Two level laminectomy fusion L5-S1 & L2-3 done on 12/6/02.
Fifteen inch scar from the very top of butt crack (sorry), to the bra line.
BAK cages, rods & screws.(Titanium)
My pelvic bone was used for grafting.
Praying that the other two discs in between, won't have to be fused later, as I was told it was a possibility, due to the other two discs in between, not being in that great of shape.
Doc didn't want to fuse four levels, unless it is really necessary.
I would hate to repeat the surgery, as the recovery period, is so very painful.
I also have a free fragment in my T11-12 area, that I'm still refusing surgery for, at this point in time.
That surgery is way too dangerous for me to consider, until if affects my being able to walk.

Hi Baxter http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/wave.gif

I am sorry the doctor wants to wait longer before they will do anything else for you. Did he explain the dark areas around the hardware? I know there is no guarantees that you will feel better if they went back in, but you do know how you feel now and you know something has to better than what you are currently going through. I was very nervous about whether I had given my body enough time to heal after 7 months before I had my hardware removed. I was so thankful I was able to convince my doctor to proceed with the hardware removal. I guess your doctors want to justify it in their own minds before they proceed with another surgery. Unfortunately, it is at your expense http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/mad.gif I do not know if suggesting a chiro or other alternative treatment might help expedite your doctors decision. At least the chiro confirmed my problem was not muscle related. In addition, how does the doctor explain the swelling in your back. The muscle has to be irritated by something such as your hardware.

I wish there is some way to help you get through these next couple months. We will always be here for you to get through the rough days. So vent away!!!! LOL

Try to get some rest today!!! http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/t_up.gif

Well sorry to hear the news Baxter but as you say it is kind of what you expected. I am sure its difficult to get a dr. to go in there when fusion has likely not completed.

I beleive you had gone through some therapy early on and maybe that should have been held off longer so as not to stir up the muscles as much. I hope things start to get better for you soon.

I just got home myself from work, hurting pretty good today and prob. going to hit the vicodin some this evening, as much as I hate doing so. Have my pre-admission testing tomorrow. As much as I can't wait for it to be here and over with, I really am dreading the recovery as all do when it comes to surgery. Just knowing the outcome could be positive is enough to get one thru that period I guess.

Keep your chin up and keep fighting, the LTD will be approved shortly and you will have something finally going in your favor.

Good luck and force a smile today as hard as it may be. http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/smile.gif

Maybe on your next horseshoe pit adventure with your husband you can take the page of the telephone book with your doctor's name on it along with the office Jessica works for now and tie it to the stake for a couple throws by your hubbie. Maybe that will get a smile for you, shame they couldn't feel it though.

I am not normally so mean, I swear, but you have been put through a ringer!

------------------
Auto Accident Aug 1988
L3-4 disectomy 1989
L3-4 now re-herniated
L4-5 DDD
L5-S1 herniated
5/14--trial stimulator implant(went well enough for full implant)
6/11/03--scheduled for full implant(medtronic)
Hopefully to hold on for ADR

Baxter,
i am so sorry you didn't get the answer you were looking for. But you did say you trust their opionions so maybe you really just need some more time to heal...can they give you a muscle relaxor or something to help those muscle around the hardware? Well either way I hope you are okay...and yes by all means vent away...
feel better...
-Chrissy

Hi All, http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/wave.gif

Sorry for the delay, I had the usual round of never ending phone calls to make, and I'm also now getting ready for my pre-op appt today for my other procedure on Thursday.

L5S1,

He didn't really say much about the dark spots other than what we both already knew about the hardware causing dark images on the scans, so I'm still lost on that one, but I will be asking my doctor in more detail on 6/4th.

He said the swelling is a combination from the muscle spasms that I had immediately after surgery, as well as my overall problem with my body getting rid of leftover fluids from the surgery.
I have always had trouble getting rid of any past swelling, so I do believe him on that issue for the time being.
I don't remember having spasms, but that is what they tell me happened.
I'm leaning more towards massage therapy than the chiro route, as the area is still very sore to touch.
As soon as my LTD starts, I'm thinking of doing the massage therapy, as my insurance won't cover that, and it's very expensive.
The PT place also believed that alot of this was muscle related, I just wish it would hurry up and go away.

I may never know exactly what is causing me these problems, I just hope that I do see some improvement, as I'm so sick of this ruling my life.

I was hoping that things would work out for me the way we discussed, but nothing in my life ever goes as planned.

I'm so glad that you can relate, as I'd be totally off the wall by now !! especially seeing that doctors have that knack of making us doubt ourselves.

I will keep you posted on what my doctor has to say as well, I just hope that you are feeling better today, and that the yardwork didn't cause any long term damage to your back.

Thank you so much for being here for me, you know that I'm always here for you http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/heart.gif

W Baker,

As a matter of fact, we just happen to be going to horseshoes tonight, I just love your idea http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/dance.gif
it made me feel so much better already.
What I really want to do is pop her upside the head with a real horseshoe, then I will really be feeling good.
I'm also not a mean person, but the world really would be better off without her !!

I agree, I think the PT actually made me worse, I wish I never went that route, I can do the same at home anyways, the only thing that seemed to help a little was the ultrasound.

I also hope the LTD kicks in, because I now have two doctors stating that right now I'm totally disabled.
Just what I needed, more office notes to chase around, but it will help me in the long run.
I hate CIGNA !!!!!

Good luck on the pre-admission visit, your day of relief is coming soon, and I believe 100% that you are making the best decision for you, and it will all be worth it in the end for you as well.

I hope the Vicodin works tonight for you, me, I'm having Labatt's, my Xanax has worn off, so I'll be o.k.
We all deserve a break from this pain.

I'm praying real hard that you have a smooth recovery so that you can get back to living the good life http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/angel.gif

Chrissy,

Thank you so much for the well wishes, I will do my best to fight this monster !!
I do have muscles relaxers, I've tried a few, all they seem to do is make me very sleepy.

I hope things start to improve for you as well http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/t_up.gif

Well, I babbled enough, I'm so behind on postings, so I'm sorry if I missed anyone, I'll be catching up some tomorrow.

Thank you all again, you are the best people on Earth, and you all deserve the very best that life has to offer http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/bouncing.gif

Be Well,
Baxter http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/love2.gif

------------------
Two level laminectomy fusion L5-S1 & L2-3 done on 12/6/02.
Fifteen inch scar from the very top of butt crack (sorry), to the bra line.
BAK cages, rods & screws.(Titanium)
My pelvic bone was used for grafting.
Praying that the other two discs in between, won't have to be fused later, as I was told it was a possibility, due to the other two discs in between, not being in that great of shape.
Doc didn't want to fuse four levels, unless it is really necessary.
I would hate to repeat the surgery, as the recovery period, is so very painful.
I also have a free fragment in my T11-12 area, that I'm still refusing surgery for, at this point in time.
That surgery is way too dangerous for me to consider, until if affects my being able to walk.

[This message has been edited by BAXTER (edited 05-27-2003).]

hi baxter, sorry to hear you didnt get the answers you wanted to get....my surgeon keeps telling me at my appts, its gonna take a long time for recovery, i think hes right. i look at you and everyone else, boy do i have a wase to go yet, im just over 3 months post-op....whats this them saying you might not be able to return to work? what do they think were suppose to do in mean time...im wondering if i'll ever get better to work again...this is more than i thought it would be..i thought by now id be 100% healed....heck my hubby had open heart last year, quadrupal bypass, he was back to work in no time,hes dong great...sometimes i feel like im a big baby!!!but i know im not...if your like me, im trying to rush things , and i need to be patient, fusions take time to heal....well, hope you have a good evening, talk to ya soon http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/smile.gif sandy

Hey Baxter,

Wanted to tell ya sorry about what dr said, I wish you would have gotten better news, I wish you luck hon, You are such a nice person and have helped me with all your support. I am so sorry, Best of luck Sassy

[This message has been edited by sassymomof2 (edited 05-27-2003).]

Hi Baxter, What an ordeal you are going through! Patience is an absolutely lovely trait. I don't know whether it is what is best at this point for you, but I do know that folks who have had to endure trials patiently come out of the ordeal even more wonderful than ever. Of course, it is a bit hard to imagine your character improving... I am sorry there was nothing the doctors could devise to relieve your pain sooner and safely.

http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/heart.gif HNP

Hi Baxter http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/wave.gif

I do not remember if you said you have a TENS unit. I know it has helped me when I have muscle pain. Although, it did not help when I had pain just related to the hardware. In fact I used my TENS unit last night and I am not experiencing any pain after working in the yard yesterday. I am just trying to think of different things which might help you to find some relief.

Now that it is getting warmer, have you tried your swimming pool? I am curious how your back feels when you are in the water and if you have the same sensations I experienced in the water.

I just wish there was some way to convince the doctors to proceed with further treatment for you. I know it will seem like an eternity for you to wait another few months. http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/eek.gif

I do not know what you are going to tell your employer and hopefully they will be understanding enough where they will keep your job open for you.

Please let me know if we can do anything for you!!

We are praying for you to get better http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/angel.gif

Baxter...I'm a newbie & haven't posted much, but I have been reading about your nightmare. Sorry you've been grappling with a crisis without answers.

However, I would like to thank you and wbaker68, as well as those who have been through the ringer...for all your input that I've been reading!!! The last visit to my doc, I was never so prepared with a new and improved list of questions!

Many thanks...Karen http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/round.gif

P.S. wbaker68 The horseshoe idea made me laugh out loud, really loud at work. http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/smile.gif

HANG IN THERE BAXTER!

Hi L5S1,

On 4/8/03 Baxter posted

I do have my own tens unit on right now, it does cover up some of the pain, but it doesn't do anything for the discomfort at this point. Even the smallest movement reminds me that something is just not right. I try my best to live my life without this affecting me, but it is getting harder by the day. PT had me under a rental for the tens unit, but a Rep. from the company (EMPI) told me that she will now bill the insurance company for the whole unit.

------------------
HNP at L4-5 late Sept
3 months PT
Reherniation late Feb
Nerve block mid March
Microdiscectomy April 4

Baxter,

I am so sorry about your pain and the nightmare you have been through. When I first posted you were the first to answer and help allay my terror. You have always been there for everyone on this board. I follow your postings quite closely as I can only imagine what you are going through.

Hopefully your doctors are right. Just try to hang in there and hopefully your pain and frustration will ease just a bit.

Take care of yourself.

------------------
47 Years Old - Female
15 Years of Pain (I waited too long!)
L5-S1 fusion 3/27/03
L4 Disk - torn, ruptured
L3 Disk - torn, ruptured

Hey guys quick question, what is a TENS unit? Figured I'd ask and you guys all know so much.
Ickyback - I am pretty new here too and I too have learned so much from these posts, especially those certain people keep popping up with all this info and answers. If my doctor told me something I would check on here and see what info any one has, and the respoinse you get is incredible. They have all made me feel a bit better about my situation, and definetley more knowelgable...I can't wait for my next weeks visit to my pm doc, cause I have so many questiond now to ask him and I think I understand what's going on with my back much better with the help of these posts..
ok sorry i am getting all chessey, i am just thankful for having somewhere to talk to people going through similar situations.
Baxter - thanks for your continous support and well wishes. I do hope you are feeling better and that you don't get too discouraged by what the doctor says. In time you will heal...
Pat - how are you doing today? I hope better. I went to work today cause I had to get out of this house, i don;t think I left all weekend...
I kept myself pretty busy today, and of course am feeling the aftermath of that, my legs hurt so bad today I want to cut them off, i think that pain would be just as bad as what I have now anyway...LOL...sorry just really throbbing, and my back is really bad but only to sit...it isn't too bad standing...but when i stand my legs hurt...so i can't win. well sorry to vent, but I have to say everytime I do it I sign off feeling a little bit relieved. So thanks everyone and I hope you have a good night.
-Chrissy http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/smile.gif

Hi HNPatL4L5 http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/wave.gif

Thank you for placing Baxter's quote about her TENS unit. I thought she had one, but could not remember.

Woogie1077: A TENS (Transcutaneous Electical Nerve Stimulation) unit sends electrical impules through electrodes through the skin. The purposes of the impulses is to stimulate the nerves to relieve pain. The first time I used one was when I went through PT. When my PT saw I was still in alot of pain (which was due to loose hardware!!), she recommeded to my back doctor to have him authorize a TENS unit for home use. Fortunately, my health insurance paid 100% for this unit and now I own it. I used it quite alot at first but for me it only helps when I have muscle spasms. I now use it occasionaly when I over-work myself physically and it is better than muscle relaxers or pain pills.

Please let me know if you have any additional questions about the TENS unit.

Have a good evening http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/t_up.gif

Baxter,

I'm so sorry to hear about your appt. I know you said you were not too surprised, but... still. We all hope for what WE think is best.... and the funny thing is, we are usually right http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/wink.gif so, don't lose faith in yourself and your intuition. Somebody posted that the docs are covering their behinds. That could be true. Perhaps it will be in your best interest in the long run if you wait a bit longer. Even with the swelling in certain areas... other parts of your body may appreciate the extra time before going back on the table. http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/eek.gif I would imagine every cell in your body is actively trying to recuperate, so..... (boy, it stinks trying to look at the dang bright side all the time :roll: where's that http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/hammer.gif or, better yet, the horseshoes!!)

Seriously, I hope you, your husband and your Labatts have a great time tonight! My margarita, my husband and I are doing our best not to think about insurance companies... but, that's another (irritating) story!

Take care! http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/love1.gif

Karen

------------------
9/22/00 24 hour labor, baby posterior, left tailbone killing me
12/00 MRI - PCP said nothing amiss - but, had to begin taking vicodin
2/8/02 - 2nd baby born after long, painful pregnance as weight gain
2000-11/02 various PT + pain meds
11/02 Referred to Neuro
3/03 NEW MRI - shows slight bulge L3-L4,slight DDD Neuro Refers to PM for ESI
3/03 PM Doc orders ESI
3/21,4/1,4/8 - ESI's no help
5/9 - Discogram - shows Tear L4 w/ significant leak onto nerves, DDD
Doc sched NEW discogram 'cuz performing doc oversedated, False Negative
New Consult w/ Dept Head Cleveland Clinic 7/8

Dear Baxter, http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/wave.gif
I am so sorry to hear about the doctor's appt. That just sounds so typical. If the doc had to live with your pain you can bet they wouldn't be so blase about telling you there's nothing they can do!!!!

I am kind of down on doctors right now! http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/t_down.gif

As usual, though, you have such a great attitude in the face of such bad news. I am confident that eventually you will heal and feel better... because you have the right attitude. Yes, it will take a lot of patience.

I read recently that the docs call a surgery a "success" if the patient returns to work within ONE YEAR!!!! http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/mad.gif I would never call being off work for a year a "success"!

You are inspiring to me, Baxter! I am trying hard to have patience and an upbeat attitude too. I had a lot of pain down my leg today, and numbness as well. It makes it so hard for me to concentrate or do anything. You are so thoughtful, considerate and helpful to others even when you are in terrible pain. If anyone deserves to heal and be pain free it is you.

I will send you lots of prayers.
http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/heart.gif Telzey

------------------
4 years of back pain
Annular tear L5-S1 diagnosed 5/02 via MRI
IDET 12/2/02
1/26/03 Posterior disc prolapse occurs after sitting too long after walking. Causes new pain down left leg.
3/1/03 Leg pain reduced with exercises from the book "Treat Your Own Back" by Robin McKenzie.
3/9/03 Lateral disc prolapse causes buttock and thigh pain and numbness.
3/25/03 Used McKenzie techniques to treat disc prolapse -- pain reduced
4/4/03 Started physical therapy
5/8/03 Still worse than pre-IDET, but showing slow improvement with PT, McKenzie exercises, yoga, and Hanna Somatics exercises

Hello Baxter. I have read a lot of your posts and wanted to send a note of comfort. You have a wonderful attitude and always offer people support on this board.
I hope that you will have pain free days in the future. Hang in there and keep up the positive outlook on life. http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/smile.gif

{{{{{HUGS}}}}}

Hi Chrissy, I know exactly what you mean about wanting to cut your legs off. I just wanted to cut my left leg off... I am so grateful that surgery I had April 4 took away all of the pain (and that the nerve damage seems to be healing very gradually). I was always aware that surgery could result in serious complications (my dad was a cancer surgeon) and might not help.

http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/heart.gif HNP (called Lynn by housemates and coworkers)

PS: I grew up in Garden City! It's been many years, but I think our address was 76 Washington Avenue.


[This message has been edited by HNPatL4L5 (edited 05-28-2003).]

Hi Baxter!
Sorry to that you didn't get the answer that you wanted to hear. If you are like me you are hoping that they find something wrong just so they can try to fix it. That is how I think anyway. I'm hoping they find something on my spine or something just so I have an answer for my pain other than DDD. It's so stupid!
It sounds like the doctors are certain that your pain is muscle related. I think your going to come through this fine. You just need to focus on the fact that you will get better and that it just takes time.
You are four months into it right?
When I tore my disc, it took a year to feel better, just from a disc tear. Four months is not long when it comes to back surgery recovery. I really do think that your body needs more time to recover. That makes total sense to me about the muscles rubbing against the hardware.
As you know, muscle pain can be the worst.
Just keep your chin up and remember that you have a time frame and know that you will be better after all this is said and done.
I have faith that you will get through all this!!

God Bless you and I hope that you find painfree days soon!!!!

Christina http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/heart.gif

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27 years old
1993: T1 to L1 fusion due to scoliosis at age 17
2000: Tore and ruptured L4 L5 & L5 S1-it finally got better after about a year. Did really well for about a year.
June 2002: Had a relapse and tore disc again. It is going on a year and my disc pain has subsided now I am faced with facet joint and bone problems restricting my movement.
Not sure what is next!
Still waiting to go into remission again but I think the damage is done!!
Current doctor say to wait it out.
Going for second opinion in July.

Lynn/Pat - which do u prefer?
Gosh what a small world. I grew up on Fernwood Terrace and now live on Meadow Street. Isn't that such a conicidence.
So question...nerve damage can heal? I was told I have permamenent nerve damage, I guess it is 2 different kinds of damage. So your's is getting better? I felt like a million bucks after my surgery in 9/2002, no leg pain, I thought wow this is great...than started getting the pains back about 3 months post-op, and am now 8 months post-op and feel worse or just as bad as I did before the surgery.
But I am sure you will heal great! Keep me updated! Have a great day!
-Chrissy

Hi Chrissy, I'm happiest if folks here call me HNP, even though my real name is Lynn. I know "Pat" appears in HNPatL4L5. Sorry! HNPatL4L5 is short for "Herniated Nucleus Pulposus at L4 L5", which is simply my surgeon's way of saying I had a herniation of the disc between the L4 and L5 vertebrae. Sorry for the confusion. I'll answer to anything: HNP, Lynn, even Pat. http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/heart.gif HNP

PS: I was told (by the nurse who is administrator for the clinical trial in which I'm enrolled) that nerve damage can heal, but if it hasn't healed within a year it is permanent. She was speaking of the nerve damage left over from the nerve being compressed by a herniated disc (numbness, loss of sensation, etc). I've heard that sometimes pain can come back after surgery if scar tissue (filling in the gap in the annulus of the disc where the herniation was removed) adheres (attaches) to the nerve root. My surgeon did a "fat graft" to try to prevent this. I've also heard some patients are told to do certain exercises 6-12 weeks after surgery to prevent this (pumping your ankle while hamstrings are tight). I'm so sorry that surgery didn't work for you.


[This message has been edited by HNPatL4L5 (edited 05-28-2003).]

Hi All,

I'm so sorry that I haven't responded yet, to tell you the truth, I haven't even been able to read any of these replies since my last reply to all of you yesterday, I'm so sorry, I will catch up when I have the strength.

I'm not doing so well right now, I just found out for sure a few minutes ago, that on 6/6th I will no longer have a job.
I just can't process all of the things happening in my life right now, I will need some time to figure this all out, so I will be back as soon as I can.

Thank you all so much for thinking about me, you know that I only want the best in life for all of you, you have all been here for me, and I promise not to desert any of you in your tough times. I will be back, I just need some time.

I hope that you all are feeling better today, and that things are working out well for you in your life.

Please don't worry about me, things happen for a reason, I just have to find some extra strength to find my way out of this mess.

Thank you all, you are the best http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/heart.gif

Be Well,
Baxter http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/heart.gif


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Two level laminectomy fusion L5-S1 & L2-3 done on 12/6/02.
Fifteen inch scar from the very top of butt crack (sorry), to the bra line.
BAK cages, rods & screws.(Titanium)
My pelvic bone was used for grafting.
Praying that the other two discs in between, won't have to be fused later, as I was told it was a possibility, due to the other two discs in between, not being in that great of shape.
Doc didn't want to fuse four levels, unless it is really necessary.
I would hate to repeat the surgery, as the recovery period, is so very painful.
I also have a free fragment in my T11-12 area, that I'm still refusing surgery for, at this point in time.
That surgery is way too dangerous for me to consider, until if affects my being able to walk.

Hi Baxter http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/wave.gif

I am so sorry that things didn't work out the way you wanted them to. Please don't let this bad news set you back. Please try to stay positive and focus on getting better. I know this is something that you don't want to hear but, I think your doctor is probably right. The way you explained the muscles being inflammed, makes sense to me. I think that once they start to heal, the pain should let up. I sort of think of it in this way,...When you sprain your ankle, it is the swelling that is causing the discomfort, right? But once the swelling goes down, you ankle feels better. I think that if you are not better in the time frame that is alloted for a fusion, then I would DEMAND them to remove the hardware. Did they give you any suggestions of what you should do for the pain until you are feeling better? Did they give you any suggestions at all?

As far as going back to work, the way that things are going for you, I don't think you will be going back to work anytime soon, and why would you want to when you are having all that pain. I agree with the doctors about being disabled. If I were you, just to have a back up plan, I would apply for disability at your Social Security buliding. It can't hurt you to apply for it, and if you get better then get off it and go back to work. I will be very surprised if you ever return back to the workforce. Just please try to prepare yourself for the worst. There is nothing like being prepared.

I am not trying to be negative, so please don't take it that way. I think you should take what the doctors say, and go from there. I do think that you need more time to heal. I know you want the pain to go away, but please try to be patient. I know it is easier said then done, but if you push yourself to hard and go back to work before you are healed, you might undue everything that you went through the past 6 months.

I am sorry that you have to go through this, and if I could make it go away, I would wave my magic wand and make you feel 100% better, but I can't. I can however be there for you my friend http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/smile.gif I can give you all the support that you need, and so can all these wonderful people that are here for you. I can be honest with you, even if it is something that you don't to want hear. I can cheer you up, when you are feeling down. I can be hear for you when you need to vent, and when you need to cry. I just want you to know Baxter, that I am here for you no matter what. I care about you, and I worry about you. I just wanted to let you know this.

ahmmm, (clearing my throat)....okay, enough with all the mushy stuff. How did your procedure go today? I am very interested in how you make out with this. Please do give me all the details on this. I am very much considering it. Please take it easy today or until you feel better.

Take Care of you,
Brenda http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/heart.gif

Hi Baxter http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/wave.gif

You must have posted right before me. I am so sorry about your job hun, is there anything I can do for you? Please read my prior post about disability. I sort of had a feeling that this was going to happen to you. Please go to the Social Security building ASAP and try to get yourself on disability. I feel really bad, because last week I was going to tell you to have a back up plan, but I didn't and now I am sorry. That is why I mentioned it to you in my prior post that I just submitted. I wasn't sure if me mentioning this to you, would upset you, so I kept my mouth shut until today! I am so http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/mad.gif at myself now!.

Baxter, things will work out, you are just having a rough time right now. I know you feel like everything is going wrong, and your world is comming to a end, but its not, it just seems that way right now. Please try to stay calm so that your back doesn't hurt you, and try to clear your mind so you can think of a plan.

Okay, here are some quick suggestion for you, as far as money is concerned: LTD, hopefully you will get this soon. In the mean time, apply for disability. Depending on your income, you could always apply for SSI which is for people with lower income, and you can get that faster then you can disability. Then there is always unemployment, but if you are disabled and docs won't release you, then you can forget about that one. Also if you are going to go for disability, I would skip the unemployment. I personally, would go for the Social Security Disability, since you no longer have a job to go back to. Then you can take your time and heal, and not be pressured to get back to work.

Baxter, I just wanted to throw some ideas out there for you. I will pray that everything will turn out for you. I am so sorry that this happened to you, I really am http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/frown.gif I am here if you need me. Please don't give up and call your lawyer!

Take Care,
Brenda http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/heart.gif

[This message has been edited by Bcorica (edited 05-28-2003).]

[This message has been edited by Bcorica (edited 05-28-2003).]

Baxter,
Geez i am so sorry this is happening to you, But please know it will be ok , I know right know it may seem that its not, But it will, I will pray for you I know god is watching over us. Please know that i will be thinking about you. I hope you get back soon, I will be checking in to see how you are, I know you have a lot of freinds here that really need you and will miss you while your away, Please take care, Sassy

http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/love1.gif http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/angel.gif

Baxter, I am sorry that you are struggling. Please keep foremost in your mind what you said in your last post - "that everything happens for a reason." I know some of those sayings sound corny, and I have an awefully hard time w/ figuring out the "whys" of the big hurts. I try to tell myself that it is in His hands. He will take care of you, Baxter. You are a strong, caring, wonderful woman. You will get through this and come out on top. You may not feel that way right now.... something wonderful will happen for you, by you, because of you.

Take care, sweetie. http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/love1.gif

ttfn

kk

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9/22/00 24 hour labor, baby posterior, left tailbone killing me
12/00 MRI - PCP said nothing amiss - but, had to begin taking vicodin
2/8/02 - 2nd baby born after long, painful pregnance as weight gain
2000-11/02 various PT + pain meds
11/02 Referred to Neuro
3/03 NEW MRI - shows slight bulge L3-L4,slight DDD Neuro Refers to PM for ESI
3/03 PM Doc orders ESI
3/21,4/1,4/8 - ESI's no help
5/9 - Discogram - shows Tear L4 w/ significant leak onto nerves, DDD
Doc sched NEW discogram 'cuz performing doc oversedated, False Negative
New Consult w/ Dept Head Cleveland Clinic 7/8

hi baxter http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/smile.gif sorry to hear there not gonna keep your job.....i know how yo feel, remember i was let go in march, cause im not able to perform my job, and hubby lost his business..we've had it soooo hard, but you know, were getting thru this somehow, day by day!!!!its not easy by a long shot, i try to think theres always someone worse off than me.....keep your chin up!!! i'll talk to ya when you feel better ok!! im thinking of you!!!! sandy http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/smile.gif

Baxter,
I have read your posts with interest..

I have had almost the same surgery as you, But also i do have another disc bulging but my surgeon left that as it was not as bad as the rest and i also had three levels fused and by all accounts that is risky in itself!

Baxter, i had my fusion done 20 months ago and you are going down exactly the same road as me! My consultant would not touch me either at the stage you are at now and also everyone will tell you as i'm sure they have, That it is too early to say weather you will heal, BUT you are the only one who knows how you feel and YOU know there is something not right!!! as i did..

At the stage your at now my consultant left me untill almost 1 yr then he ordered 'Cat Scans, 'Bone Scans' More MRI'S the lot but all showed up fine! BUT he done another test can't remember what it was but it found out i have permanet nerve damage and he also said it is classic failed back syndrome plus i have this other bulging disc..

So he said we have to get you on serious pain medication and under the pain management team, Now Baxter i can hardly tolerate the Medication's they make me so very ill I'm hardly living my life and i'm to only 38 yrs young .
So i am now waiting Immenent surgery for the Interathecal pain pump, He the Consultant said i will be more or less married to the hospital for life now..

They do not agree with taking out hardware as it genrally makes no difference..

I truly hope you fair better than me but at the moment you sound like my replica..

If you want to know anything that may jog my memory please ask..

Take care sweetheart..

Tiddgys x

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lower Lumber probs.
L2 Bulging, But Docs will not touch as there is no nerve trouble there.
3 Level fusion L3-L4 L4-L5 L5-S1
No better after fusion.
2 Discograms
Loss of bladder control (OK NOW )
Lots of physio..
2 MRI'S
Water Theraphy..
1 Bone scan
1 Cat Scan
Loads of ESI'S
lots of Mediacation and i'm allergic to most of them..
Now Under P/M CONSUTANT HAVE BEEN FOR THE PASS SIX MONTHS..
Need Friends and Comfort, with the odd laugh..