ALIF fusion question?

fusionman · 03-12-2007, 04:23 PM

Hi

I was wondering if anyone has had the problem of twisting ones spine while getting out of bed post-surgery? I had an ALIF fusion L3-4 7 weeks ago and getting out of bed has been very hard to do. I learned the proper way from the PT dept in the hospital but even using that method my spine keeps getting twisted, causing pain in the muscles and pelvic area. Has anyone else experienced any problems with this? It seems that an adjustable bed (electric) like the one in the hospital would be great to have.

Because I had an ALIF (stomach approach) I was not given a back brace or a walker. Supposedly one does not need either item since the muscles of the back are not disturbed during the surgery. But I find that most of my pain now is in the back muscles and pelvic area. I know I’m not supposed to bend forward at this stage but I feel so stiff in the lower back area that I couldn’t even if I wanted to? Is this the normal response from this surgery even though the back muscles have not been opened up? Also my back cramps up after only walking 5 to 10 minutes and from lying on it flat. I have read most people are walking a lot at this point but that seems to lead to spasms for me. I have informed my surgeon of this and he told me to just give it more time and that is should get better. Yet, I feel this is not the norm for this stage in recovery? Any insight from others that have had this type of fusion would be appreciated. Thanks.

Fusionman

123dietdrpepper · 03-12-2007, 04:49 PM

Fusionman, have you tried using a plastic trashbags under your hips. It helps you to slide easier when getting up.

fusionman · 03-12-2007, 05:13 PM

Hi Diet,

I will have to try it. Thanks for the tip.

fusionman

clover60 · 03-12-2007, 11:11 PM

Fusion
The hardest thing for me was getting in and out of bed and going to the restroom. For some reason I could not get the log roll thing down. I think we are so used to just getting in the bed and out that we seem to forget.

Just take your time and try to tell yourself to keep your hips and shoulders aligned.

My surgery was thru the back so I have the brace and had the walker at the hospital. I think the brace helps. Your muscles are going to be flared up just from the changes in the back.

Hope you have a easy recovery. I will keep you in my prayers.

Jungleland · 03-12-2007, 11:39 PM

I find wearing "satiny" type sleep wear makes rolling over in bed and getting out of be much easier than "cottony" type sleep wear. Like Satin boxer shorts or satin pj pants.

My night stand is set just in the right position for me to be able to "log roll" over and then reach over to the night stand and push with my arms, keeping my body "log like". Hope this makes sense, my night time meds are kicking in and I am having a heck of a time thinking of my words, lol!! I didn't have as extensive a surgery as you but I still have to keep my lower back straight, NO TWISTING!

Good luck! Might be worth looking into renting a hospital bed and insurance MIGHT cover it if the doc orders one. I know, if/when I need the next surgery, I will be most definetly asking for a hospital bed!

Hugs,
Vickie