@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!!!