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Expectations for post major back surgery recovery?

Spine Health | Last Active: 5 days ago | Replies (41)
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@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

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Replies to "@nlback22 Thanks my friend. I had a 91/2 hour spinal surgery because of all kinds issues,..."
nlback22 | @nlback22 | Sep 25 1:28pm

@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

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