Post-op Laminectomy. Week 2. This recovery is hard. Should it be?

I’ve had two laminectomy and a fusion in the last 6 years. Two different surgeons, Recovery depends upon many factors. Diet, supplements, alcohol, nicotine and mindset. Physical therapy is very important as well! I have had many…one had me doing too much, another did too little. Posture is crucial for many reasons 🙏

If a surgeon gives you a CHOICE, don’t let them cut! Synovial cysts are a part of arthritis and can stay the same size for years. Even “minimally evasive surgery “ is SURGERY

You aren’t giving yourself enough time, you just had the surgery! It takes months to heal. Your body has been through a trauma. Muscles, nerves, bones have all been manipulated.
I thought my laminectomy was painful, but nothing I didn’t expect. And it was nothing compared to the spinal fusion I had a year later. Yikes, that took over a year to recover from.
Is this your first surgery ever? I’ve had many surgeries over the years. Maybe you just didn’t realize how it impacts your body.

This is true, however, what I am now experiencing is "Post Laminectomy Syndrome" which happens to about 20% of people who have this type of back surgery. I have leg pain similar to the sciatic pain I had before I even had the surgery. As a result, the surgeon has ordered an MRI which I am having on Monday, followed by an appointment to see him on Tuesday. I will post the outcome of that appointment.

I wish you well.
I just had (May 9) 3 laminectomies with fusion and two lumbar discs replaced. Still in hospital in PHX awaiting drain removal.
The pain has been zero with NSAID application (no opioids) and I've been walking a lot on day two through now. The incision site is the only irritation from surgery and very slow bowel activity that cause distraction discomfort (or tolerable pain).
The surgery appears to be successful. I can lie on my back and sleep comfortably. I could not do that all year due to the worsening stenosis.
I pray that your situation is quickly resolvable and you can find peace better than even I am experiencing.
I may be discharged today (May 13).

Completely agree with your advice. I prepared for the surgery for many months and the outcome has been successful. Just had it May 9th.

Well it appears my Laminectomy has not been successful and is now considered "Post Laminectomy Syndrome". All of my pain has returned. I see the PA this morning, and the surgeon wants X-rays done. He has to do something as I can't live on opioids every 4-hours with NSAIDS. Please say prayers for me. Please. I really need them. Thank you all for your care and concern .....

@denman55 time is the best thing on your side for healing. Regarding your pain, UTI and constipation. You’ll need the pain meds as you begin PT soon. Take the meds before you begin PT each day so you’re ahead of the pain. Fluids should work wonders for you constipation and your UTI. With the antibiotics onboard and increased fluid you should beat the UTI. You’ll need to develop an anti-constipation diet. I increased my fluids and fiber via fruit to deal with this issue early on.

Thank you all, just about to committ to a lamanectomy and coflex spacers. Anyone heard of this? At 78 I still walk 2-3 miles most days and can sit and lie down no issues. Must stop and stretch when walking or sit as right leg gets numb , sciatica , after rest walk again a little further.
Maybe I should wait till this is a real problem.
We can still go anywhere just can’t hike distances, golf or ski anymore; maybe that’s ok too.
Thoughts ?

Praying for you, denman55, and effective resolution to the surgery condition.
I just finished 3 laminectomies and fusion. If you can, focus in on Psalm 23 as it was God speaking to you. Keep reading it. The diversion from your pain softens the discomfort. Also, if you haven't as yet, walk. Walk every two hours. The walking felt good and diverted my attention from the pain. Stop and talk with nurses and staff. This makes the day palatable.
Nonetheless, I will pray for wisdom in correcting laminectomies, improved and accelerated healing. Looking forward to a virtual smile from you.