Expectations for post major back surgery recovery?

@opso I too had fusion L4-S1 and was in a similar jacket for about 6 months but this was in 1990. Be certain you learn how to clean yourself with both hands or buy a bidet.

@opso
Glad your surgery went well and your back pain is minimal.
🙏😊
I had back surgery 4 1/2 months ago at Mayo-Rochester due to Adult Scoliosis and a multitude of other problems.

I had right leg nerve issues prior to surgery, and still have issues with my right leg, but now it is primarily in my calf. I had a similar response from my doctor as Sherry did. My nerves are no longer pinched and most likely my symptoms will go away. But it does takes a long time for nerves to heal. Meanwhile, my pain management specialist has continued me on the 3 drugs that I was taking for nerve issues prior to surgery. I take Duloxetine, Lyrica, and Low Dose Naltrexone ---all prescribed at the lowest possible dose.

May your healing and recovery be wonderful!
Nadine

Posting again - with a specific question.
I have had two Lumbar Fusions - L5-L4 and L4-L3.
I am recently experiencing radiating outside thigh pain.
Could this be something other than Lumbart Disc Issue -
"Meralgia Paresthetica" / lateral femoral cutaneous nerve compression ????
peterpaul

@sherrym25
Thank you for your interest and concern.
My surgery was approx. 4 months ago and I am walking everyday when
possible. Sitting and standing is still an issue.
I will be soon 80 years old - type A personality/work-a-holic!
I believe I have been doing too much to soon.
Plan: slow down /walk / and rest every afternoon.
I will keep you up to date - thany you. Peterpaul

@nlback22

Thanks my friend. I had a 91/2 hour spinal surgery because of all kinds issues, resulting in an incision from just above the middle of my back down to just above my tail bone. Two P.T. came by yesterday to show me what limited exercises I could do during my recovery. I tried sleeping in my bed last night for the first time, but unfortunately, I think I'm going to have to go back to a recliner for a little longer. My Mayo Clinic Doctor, the nurses and the P.T. say I'm doing much better than most patients. My biggest issue continues to be sciatica down lower back, across my right butt and on down to my hamstring. If it wasn't for that I could be walking a lot more instead just a few laps around my cul-de-sac. Hope everyone reading this is doing well.

OpsO

@opso
My nerve issue in my leg also limits how far I can walk. At 4 1/2 months post-op, I can walk a mile or two, but I found I have less after effects, if I split it up. I walk a mile in the morning, and one at night. (Plus multiple shorter walks). I noticed my nerve issue increases when, I walk up hills, and I found it helpful if I take shorter steps. This also helps a little on flatter surfaces when my leg is acting up more.

You mentioned tight hamstring. In PT, I was instructed on how to do a seated hamstring stretch and taught how to do a sciatic nerve floss. I was further along in my recovery time, so I would only do these if you have an okay and instruction from your Physical Therapist.
Have a great day!😊

Nadine

@nlback22

Thanks Nadine. My next PT session is Tuesday and I'll ask about the stretches you mentioned.

@sherrym25

Thanks Sherry, I am now home after 5 days in Mayo. I was also told the leg pain is not uncommon and hopefully something I can quickly work through. I try to remain positive. Maybe I'll ask my wife to take a picture of my 12" incision...after second thought, nah.

@peterpaul
Wow, I can only pray and hope that I have your energy and fortitude when I am your age! And I say this out of incredible respect for you!!
So you are dealing with surgery that was only four months ago. Since you are experienced with surgeries, you know there is so much inflammation and so much healing that is going on right now. Drinking lots of water, keeping moldable soft ice packs on your back and taking good calcium supplements is critical!
I love that you are talking about walking. I hurt more when I sit than when I do when I get up and walk around. Muscles freeze up when we don’t move. Keep walking and please keep letting us know how you’re doing. Having people support you is so important.
Best wishes 🙏Sherry

@opso
You made me pause for a second when you talked about the length of your scar! My physical therapist keeps telling me that my scar goes higher than T 11 but my surgeon did the minimum invasive surgery and honestly, I don’t care about a scar in my back as I’m not a runway model 🤣
That being said, I think I’m going to have my daughter measure my scar tomorrow! Maybe we should all do that and share some info. There are stats and everything else from hospitals but it’s real time life time reality that gives us the best info, if you ask me! I love this group.
❤️Sherry