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Lower back spinal fusion recover, how bad is it?
Spine Health | Last Active: May 26 12:30pm | Replies (21)Comment receiving replies
@avorst - Welcome to Mayo Connect and this is a perfect question to ask those who read this blog. I had your same procedure done L2-5 in May 2023. I also have a high tolerance for pain but am somewhat older (darn it) than you. I enjoyed a pleasant summer last year but it was certainly lower-key and less active than other summers. The idea of postponing might make some sense for you.
What symptoms do you have now that have led you to surgery? Can you tolerate those symptoms a few more months? There's also the question of possibly causing additional damage to your nerves by deferring surgery. Might be worth asking that of your surgeon.
Replies to "@avorst - Welcome to Mayo Connect and this is a perfect question to ask those who..."
Scoliosis is now straight. I have 2 rods, 4 plates, and 3 vertebra remolded.
Totally pain free after 5 weeks. Yes, my back is totally
pain free. Yes, my movement is restricted while
every thing heals, but after all the pains for days, weeks, and months, I am pain free. I never dreamed I would be pain free, but I am. Pain free!
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I have had two epidurals for pain management. They have helped the actual back pain but I have sciatica pain on both sides of my glutes and down my legs. I also have aching legs. I am worried about the first two weeks. Were they very painful? What were you able to do during the first two weeks? Obviously I won't be able to drive, which isn't a problem but, I have 3 teens and I do cook and do laundry and they can help but I am wondering if I will be able to do housework or will be mostly sleeping and recovering during this time.