When does post op pain that disrupts sleep go away? (Lumbar fusion)

Posted by mlbobcat @mlbobcat, Aug 1, 2023

I just had lumbar spinal fusion L4-L5–S1 using ALIF at age 56. The first procedure was through my abdomen and second part 2 days later involved putting in metal rods and screws from 2 incisions on the back. This is after 20 years of constant lower back pain that was mostly intense aching pain in lower back, though I had occasional sciatica too. I managed via pain meds and exercises (bike riding and racing, lots of stretching every day) that were very helpful, and various surgeries/epidural shots etc. that were not. Looking back, I don’t think I was fully “managing” the past 2-3 years, as my work capacity in a desk job declined. Finally, my pain hit a higher level with some sciatica mixed in and suddenly I could not work or enjoy the sports that helped me before. That’s when I finally arranged to get fusion surgery. I’m now 11 days post op, and I’m having periods of intense pain in the lower back and buttocks that keep me from sleeping. Last night I slept one hour. Tonight it’s 4:20 am (lol) and I had maybe 3 hours of sleep so far and my buttocks hurt so much.

How long should it take before there episodes come to an end? What can I do now?

At present, I spend most of my days in a recliner chair mixed in with short walks. I also sleep in the chair. I’m taking oxycodone, Tylenol, Lyrica, Celebrex, Cyclobenzaprine, and some meds for constipation. I’ve tried ice on the back which helps a little.

Any insights would be much appreciated!

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@jwdiehl912

Wow, you had almost the same exact procedure I had last week. It’s been one week postop today and I am having great difficulty sleeping. The only place I have found any relief, like you, is in a recliner.. I think I am taking just about the same medication that you were for pain. Can you tell me what they put you on after your trip to the emergency room? Curious if it helped. Also curious as to how you were doing almost 2 years postpartum if you are still looking at these posts.

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