Hello. I am writing because my dad and I are very concerned about my mom. Last Fall she had surgery on her sciatic nerve to help a long, ongoing problem. She did a few hospital therapy sessions, but then stopped. For a while the pain was better, but then it got worse again. Now she is getting by on Vicodin and is scheduled for another surgery in a week. My dad talked to me today about how he knew that more than surgery would be needed to fix my mom's problem. One of the issues is that she is overweight, and we believe that is affecting her ability to get better. That, however, is a touchy subject.

But I am surprised that her doctor did not INSIST on an intensive rehabilitaton/physical therapy program after her first surgery designed to strengthen her back and help her lose weight. I feel that she needs a physical therapist or trainer whose job it is to keep her on track and motivated. It should not fall to my dad to tell her that she isn't doing enough to get better. This should be a doctor's job. Also, we are concerned that all the doctor seems to be doing for her post-surgery is giving her pain medication.

If anyone can give me any advice on how to help her do better after this surgery, please let me know.

I'm sorry about what your mother is going through. It might help to know specifically what procedure she had for her nerve problem. As far as PT is concerned after my microdiscectomy in 1999; I only had one PT appointment and basically I was just shown back strengthing exercises to do. I was very disciplined and kept my back strong (at least I thought it was strong), then earlier this year I reinjured my back helping my husband lift cement bags and an MRI revealed DDD and a collapsed disc and once again an EMG confirmed nerve compression/damage was occurring. So, I just had a fusion procedure on May 25. My surgeon has said I won't start PT until 6 months post surgery and it will be very comprehensive. However; I do know every surgeon seems a little different about when to start PT after a fusion. Anyway, if you could provide more information on the procedure you mother had .. I think you will definitely get some insightful responses. :angel:

Jo :wave:

I believe she had a microdiscectomy. I know it was supposed to be a less complicated surgery compared to other kinds of back surgery.

Thanks!
Andrea