Hi Christopher,

I'm sorry that you're still in pain. I've had a lot of replacement surgeries (both knees, right hip, left shoulder). I haven't had fusion surgery. I'm a candidate all right, but at 71, I'm in the gym everyday and do the one thing I can control - maintain a strong set of core muscles and this supports and protects my lumbar spine.

What does your surgeon have to say about the continuation of pain in both legs? My understanding is that this should either be gone, or it will go away, but when?

Anyway, seems like your surgeon is the best place to go for answers.

One suggestion - use ice on your lower back and not heat. Heat feels good and does relax muscles, but it also increases blood flow and therefore inflammation in the lower back. Even ice would only provide temporary relief. Of course there are NSAIDs like ibuprofen and Tylenol for some relief.

Sorry I don't have better answers. It does seem unusual to have the pain you describe 4 months post-op.

Are you still in PT?

All the bets to you, friend.

Joe