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Does anyone have Spinal Stenosis that is extremely bad at wake up?
Bones, Joints & Muscles | Last Active: Oct 13 7:54am | Replies (123)Comment receiving replies
Thanks for concern and asking. Surgeon said (in 2006) “no way, very difficult and could risk your walking and cause incontinence.” In 2019 …from another Dr. it’s too late. My core is not good, took special back core courses but it is not easy. But I am encouraged by your situation. Life circumstances changed in 2004 so wonderful husband (second marriage). I retired early from teaching and so we travelled together. Mutual caring helped push my boundaries of pain. Challenges just don’t stop coming.
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Sorry for this late reply. Yeah my lower back has it all - stenosis, scoliosis, listhesis, degenerative discs and arthritic spurs.
My surgeon tells me my core muscles are supporting my lumbar spine very well. At age 70, I am very active at the gym and will do almost anything to avoid fusion surgery.
About 10 years ago, I had laminotomies at S1/L5/L4. The surgery doesn't take long. The surgeon drills holes in the back of each vertebrae. In my case, he also had to remove a ruptured disc fragment from S1/L5. That surgery also provides more room for the sciatic nerve, as it creates more space, necessary due to stenosis.
You might want to check that out. One advantage is that it maintains the structural integrity of the vertebrae (versus a laminectomy, where a lot more bone is removed and the structure is weakened). It's a trade off, Anyway, I've been very happy with the laminotomies and the pain relief. And so far, I've been able to avoid fusion surgery.
I hope this helps. Finally, I would only use ice on the lower back. A warm/hot shower just feels good in the morning, but heat can increase inflammation, which can lead to pain. Maybe try putting a bag of frozen peas on your lower back during the day.
Joe