Hello davidjon, It sounds like you are doing great post op. I had 4 spinal fusions from L2-S1. The 4th was a revision of the 3rd as they did not use long enough screws the first time. Same symptoms as yours.
Post op... at 8 weeks walking 2-3 miles is great. I was not much of an exerciser prior to my surgeries. Plus the first surgery had to be pushed out a bit more then 2 months as I had a major heart attack and was not strong enough for such a lengthy tough surgery. Because of the lengthy wait time I ended up with permanent right foot drop and other lower extremity nerve issues. I need a cane or walker to ambulate. Post op all my walking consisted of walking a circle around my living room and dining room. I did spend 1 week in hospital and upon discharge 1 week in a rehab. then out patient PT and OT . OT was very helpful and I still use what they taught me. PT's focus is Core Muscles.

>Symptoms were: Pain down the front of my right leg to start: Mine got so severe at one point while waiting for surgery that I could not bear weight due to the pain and spent a few weeks in bed.
> PT: post op spinal surgery they focus on strengthening your core muscles. Being a fit and active person, as you said, you obviously have a good start with this.
In my personal experience with this I think you are doing awesome and both therapy and the doc at your 12 week appointment will be impressed. You are not at the end of your recovery but the worst is over.
My comments were all to my 1st fusion wanting to reply to you in the like manner you posted.
Best of luck to you! Keep moving !
Beckey