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Post-op Laminectomy. Week 2. This recovery is hard. Should it be?
Spine Health | Last Active: Jun 2 9:46am | Replies (55)Comment receiving replies
Hi Folks,
I have the pleasure of having recently a spinal fusion/laminectomy for severe spinal stenosis. I suffer from severe constipation so I opted out of any pain killer post op except for acetaminophen. No opiods. Recovery for the first 4 weeks was like out of a horror film, but I made it and am now in week 7. Started p/t for back/legs and only have tingling in mostly left foot. The real issue for me is this chronic constipation. I have tried everything but pharmaceuticals either make me extremely crampy, bloated, nauseous, full, no appetite, et.al. I have also tried fiber supplements and I believe I ingest enough water, but that doesn't work either. RD's suggestions for a fiber smoothie only cramps me up. I literally do not know what else to do. I have good days followed by very bad days. Sad thing is that the constipation affects my walking (significant pain), hence back recovery. Any thoughts?
Beth
Replies to "Hi Folks, I have the pleasure of having recently a spinal fusion/laminectomy for severe spinal stenosis...."
@bkatz43 - You didn't mention which area of the spine you had surgery? From your comments, I figure lumbar...
First off, I'm smiling. Congratulations on soldiering-through that trying initial recovery period. It can be rough but you've reached a good place where you can start to regain strength and function. It can still take awhile from the seven-week point...Set your expectations accordingly.
I get the constipation challenges. I had those, too. Also took no narcotics. Yet I was so bloated and constipated I even went to the ER at 10 days post. It took awhile but I got this issue "fixed" and I believe you will find a way to return to regularity.
Good luck and congrats on your early success!!!
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@bkatz43 Hi Beth. Some spine issues can cause constipation because of nerve or spinal cord compression. If you're in good shape now with your spine since your surgery, another reason for constipation can be low thyroid function which is very common. It also will depress your appetite. That may be worth a discussion with your primary care doctor.
Jennifer