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Lower back spinal fusion recover, how bad is it?

Spine Health | Last Active: May 26 12:30pm | Replies (21)
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@avorst

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.

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Phil, Alumni Mentor | @upstatephil | Apr 16 9:55am

@avorst - I went back and read the first two weeks of my diary. BTW, I suggest maintaining one (I don't normally have a diary) but it has been useful as a place to park my feelings and to help me appreciate the recovery progress I've made.

Of course, my progress will likely not match yours. The first week I was still in the hospital due to complications. We stayed in a VRBO near the hospital and planned to remain in the area for 4 weeks or so (we live 7 hours away).

I used a walker for getting around for the first two weeks at least. I cannot imagine doing housework during that period. I managed pain with Tylenol alone. I relied on my spouse for almost everything...

The pain I experienced was two varieties: (1) Pain in the lower back and at the incision sites. Not too bad and it declined in intensity pretty quickly. (2) Pain in my thighs as those long compressed nerves "reawakened" sending painful impulses that regularly woke me up. It has taken quite some time for that pain the recede into the background.

But as mentioned, your results will certainly be different. I found it very helpful to have toilet rails and bed rails in place before the surgery. Indispensable.

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