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Lumbar Spinal Fusion, Post-Op Day 6. Should I have these symptoms?

Spine Health | Last Active: Jun 5 5:49am | Replies (32)
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@denman55

This is difficult. Since arriving home from the hospital, nothing feels the same. I'm in discomfort, frustrated that I can't do things, or move the way I want, or leave the house. It's all had an effect on my emotional health. I'm going through many tearful days and nights wondering how long will this last? Doing a lot of reading up on spinal fusion and seeing that thi surgery doesn't work for everyone, and wondering if I will be one of the patients who is left still in pain 3-6 months down the line.

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Replies to "This is difficult. Since arriving home from the hospital, nothing feels the same. I'm in discomfort,..."
Phil, Volunteer Mentor | @upstatephil | May 30 7:05am

@denma55 - I understand exactly where you are and how you feel. I came to realize that I was actually experiencing post-surgical PTSD. Yes, I recall tearful days (very normal after experiencing a significant physical trauma) and I still have heightened emotions a year later. You're human - of course you will feel out-of-sorts for some time. I suggest you google PTSD. . There are also treatment suggestions.

Mostly, I recommend maintaining a positive outlook. Rather than wondering if you'll be one of those who experiences lingering symptoms...picture that you will experience great post surgical success! Resist obsessing on stories of surgical failures. You are not them...

Hang in. These are the early days...

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