It has been a very long time since I've posted and I was wondering about a few things since you and my husband share so many of the same problems.

First of all, how are things going with your fusion? Any regrets?

Secondly, are you planning to ever go back to work? I'm asking because due to the severity of dh's (dh meaning 'dear husband' or 'dumb husband' depending on the moment) condition, he's on permanent disability and awaiting an answer from SSDI after two denials. The one thing we've never, ever asked his dr's is if there is a chance he'll ever work again because we assumed that it will probably take a miracle or total body replacement from the neck down for him to have significant pain relief.

Have you ever heard of anyone with the extent of your (and my dh's) back and knee involvement NOT have this much pain and be able to work and live a normal life? I'm just looking for some hope and your take on all of this.

Thank you and I'm hoping your feeling better and better every day...

karen

Karen, I hope I can help, but I am not sure I can. Our problems haven't gotten so bad yet that working is out of the question, though I am well on my way. My DH (dumb :) JK) says his arthritis isn't so bad, just more so when the weather changes, and if he works out the pain pretty much goes away. He also says his back is not a concern for him at this time (except when the weather changes). Me, well, once my fusion heals (doing excellent btw!) I should be good to go atleast for a while. My neck at this point worries me since I have not been given any hope that anything can really fix it. So, you can imagine how concerned I can be b/c so many jobs require a person to be able to look down or lift, or whatever. I try to be an optimistic pessimist-I have no idea. Man, I really really wish I could help you out-I just don't know. When I saw the first dr he said NO LIFTING EVER AGAIN -well, heavy kind. The NS who did my surgery, well, he and I have never discussed it-so who knows what he thinks I can do.
It seems I am just as confused as you are! Sorry. I'd say see if you can make an appt with your dr JUST to discuss the job stuff. I have LTD and they will help me in this area. Do you all have long term dis? I wish you both well, please let me know how you are-
I will say this: My hubby and I are 27. Most 27 y/os don't have the extent of damage he and I do have, so I do worry about the future. Maybe that is why I pushed so hard for my fusion. I want to enjoy life as much as I can until one-kids or two-we physically can't do things anymore.