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My journey with a T11 to L4 spinal fusion - 40 degree scoliosis curve
Spine Health | Last Active: Nov 29, 2025 | Replies (174)Comment receiving replies
@karenoharmonHi thank you for sharing this. I am looking at a T2 to L4 "OPEN surgery" and I am so scared I don't know if I can go thru with it? I can't stay the way I am though. What vertebrae’s did you have fused? Was it an "OPEN surgery" This is the part that has me terrified "OPEN surgery"
I don't have a support plan or group of friends or family!
Replies to "@karenoharmonHi thank you for sharing this. I am looking at a T2 to L4 "OPEN surgery"..."
@rwdixon4 Hi I think I have SMS you before. Mine was open surgery T4-S1. I was the same I couldn't stay the way I was either. I was to nervous I didn't think about it. I just wanted it done so I could stand up straight again and walk. I also had very little support. I live with my 82 year old mother. She can get around on her own and drive. I don't think she could've helped me in and out of bed etc. Which might have been a good thing as I had to do it myself. What I feel helped me was inpatient Rehab. Ask about it. I stayed a week I could've stayed 2-3 weeks. Stay until you feel comfortable going home. There really good PT works with and Occupational Therapy they show you how to do daily things, take a shower, get dressed, get in and out of bed etc. Try not to think about it being Open surgery. Just focus on being able to do things again. I know easier said. Also I was 58 when I had surgery. Wish you fast recovery. Update how you are.
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@rwdixon4 I’m fused t10-s4. It was open and the surgery wasn’t that bad. It was long and major but I had prepared for that part well. I trusted my doctor completely. I have an amazing husband and we watched videos of the various things to expect after surgery: getting in/out of car and a bed; brushing your teeth; getting dressed; using the bathroom; sitting in a chair - all things seemingly intuitive but you have to make accommodations and those are hard! The videos were helpful.
Due to the complexity of my surgery, I am entering week 5 and just now able to get myself into and out of bed. Our kitchen is not set up for someone who cannot bend, lift or twist so cooking for myself would be an incredible challenge. I am able to move food from fridge to microwave but it’s a process.
It is definitely a time like this when you learn who your rock steady friends are. Some are not going to be able to handle the level of need you might require. They aren’t bad friends - just not the kind of friend that can help at the level you will need.
Consider filling up your freezer and pantry with healthy sources of protein and iron. You are going to need the best nutrition to get you back on your feet.
These were just quick thoughts. Please reach out if you have further questions. This forum was a great resource of encouragement for me. Wishing you the best!
Happy thanksgiving!🦃