How did you prepare mentally and physically?

@karenoharmothe backbrace is the only thing the doctor provides. My daughter bought me a cane, but really, I should have gotten the walker sooner. It is much more stable all around. Make sure you wear your back brace anytime except sleeping.
Tomorrow marks 3 wks in bed after surgery. I feel so much better. Going home thurs to try it all on my own. I live alone, but have been staying at my daughter's. My kiddos are the best!!

I had L5/S1 fused and still an in pain. Just pray that fusions work for you.

@linda6101 could you share how long since the surgery and if you were able to return to things that you enjoyed doing?

@linda6101
Hi, when was your surgery?
Best wishes, Sherry

Hard Question and most likely many different answers,

For my surgeries at least a month in advance, I would go to the YMCA and do a workout. That was light weights on items I could use. I also went into the pool to swim for a bit. Due to other problems I cannot walk very far because I have a lot of pain when I do,

It kept my mind off of the surgery. It was also good for my general health. It will also help in the recovery to have a body that is in shape a bit.

@karenoharmon
You are almost 2 weeks away!! Yay!!
Best,
Sherry

@sherrym25 Thanks Sherry! It's getting real!

Well I’m 2 weeks post op. I have not taken any opioids for pain for 5 days. They made me itch like crazy and blow up like a thanksgiving parade balloon. The worst pain is in my outer thigh of one leg. Using ice and heat. Nighttime is the worst. Haven’t figured out how to sleep in any position but on my back. Mornings are challenging as my blood pressure bottoms out as I try to get going. Most surprising thing was the absolute dependence I have to have on my husband to help me with everything. I have not had the type of pain that drove me to the surgery - for that I am grateful. I am ready to push a little more to see what this new back is going to provide for me. When do you get to stop feeling like a patient ?