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My journey with a T11 to L4 spinal fusion - 40 degree scoliosis curve
Hi, I am scheduled for an L4 to T11 spinal fusion for my 40 degree scoliosis curve on December 11 2024.
Looking for feedback or advice for recovery from anyone who has had a similar surgery!!
I very active, with an “almost” teenager, and I ride horses.
Thank you!!
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Tomorrow is 6 1/2 months post op! Woo hoo!!!
I’m really feeling so much better!! I love that I can stand and sit for long periods of time and not have all the pain I had before surgery.
For anyone looking to have back surgery, I encourage you to go to the search window and use different terminology to search, and you will find countless conversations detailing personal experiences regarding preparation for surgery and healing after surgery. There really is a wealth of information here, you just need to use different words to search.
And of course, if you don’t find what you are looking for, just ask! There are so many wonderful people ready to help you with what they know 😊
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6 Reactions@sherrym25 congratulations on your recovery! That is such a positive change in your life and I’m glad you are sharing your journey here and helping others. Good for you!
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1 ReactionWonderful!!!! So pleased to hear this! Thanks for your support and posts. Tips for maneuvering site excellent too… I struggle with threads!😜.
I too am walking and standing without pain and am thrilled! I am still definitely healing but if I progress no further at 4 months , I consider my surgery a success!
Just home from my 1st trip to Savannah where I walked an average of 3-7 miles a day!!
Feeling blessed!
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3 ReactionsWe tank you for the update post-surgery.
You are such a native person, and I know that has a lot to do with the healing process.
@jenniferhunter Thank you Jennifer! This really is a great community to share and learn.
It’s like having a group of friends who can relate to what each of us are going through. 😊
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2 Reactions@sassytwo Wow! Tamra I’m so happy to hear how well you are doing! And taking a trip and doing so much walking is wonderful😊
When I look at where I’m at now, compared to where I was at 4 months, I’m excited for you to feel even better!
We truly are blessed!
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4 Reactions@vikkitennis Thank you for the kind words😊
Did you get your SCS removed? If so, how are you doing?
The SCS was removed mid-March.
I have felt well, with sitting in a car, driving the worst. I do realize, sitting in a car has improved.
I also am trying myofascial release PT.
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1 Reaction@sassytwo ~ WOW If you are still healing and progress no further I would consider your surgery a success also ! May I ask how many vertebra did you have fused. Before your surgery could you stand and cook without pain and how far could you walk ?
If you progress any further you will be doing marathons !
Good for you! Congrats ! ! !
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1 ReactionYes, I am pleased. I had a fusion from T12-S2. Stenosis and slipped disc, and scoliosis. I still feel very much a back patient, and only 6weeks into PT. The cage feeling is gone, but I still feel muscle tension and tenderness. I still love to lay on heating pad.
Walking again is such a gift as is simply standing to cook or talk in the hall.... the stuff we used to take for granted.
I walk over 3 miles a day now. And on vaca.....increased to 4-6, but I felt it by the end of the week.
I went for a 2nd swim for 15 minute (Treading water in the deep end). It felt great, but felt it the next day. As my PT says, increase in 5% increments. Slow progress but still progress.
I am optimistic, I will continue to heal, but I am back to a pretty normal life. Do not do much lifting or cleaning. I will never give up my paid housekeeping. 🙂
The people I talked to on this site that had similar surgeries, both stated it does take a year to truly feel "normal". And two years out back to some sports etc.
Hope this info is helpful.
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