What can I do after getting spinal fusion? Can I lift weights run practice self defence? anything active?

It depends.....

How many levels are you getting fused, which levels are you having fused? how old are you? what is your prognosis?

One thing you need to be aware of. Most fusion folks have a weight restriction on them forever. When you first have your fusion done you are on a weight restriction of no more than 8 lbs. (now this is for the lumbar area). With therapy you can eventually work up to a slightly heavier weight. I have been told that I will never be able to lift more than 30 lbs. I have had a 3 level fusion.

I have also been told that running is a no no., as are roller coasters, bowling, martial arts..... now every one is different, but you need to realise that you have major surgery on your back and to risk un doing the work that the surgeon has done -in mho - is just plain dumb.....

But that being said, some younger folks have gone on to do all of the things that they did before fusion. It is something that you would need to discuss with your doctor very thoroughly. It really depends on the extent and degree of fusion and bad your back is. The more detereoration there is, the harder it is to recover.It also depends on what they put into you.....

good luck..and welcome-which I didn't say before.