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After extensive back surgery where can I find support for emotions?
had all 3 levels of my spine fused and 2 rods. My scoliosis degree curve was close to the end of the surgical scale. Plus degenerative disease from the sacrum to T9.
I am complete painfree, walking 3-4 hrs at museums, and outdoor events. I did have off the charts surgical pain. Its been a year now and I have started driving again. I have been using a Rollator and a walker now I’m trying the cane. My balance is a problem.
The focussing on physical therapy, doctors appointments, CTs, MRIs, is most of my conversation and activity.
Five months ago I had cervical fusions before the back was out of recovery.
Especially since people know you had surgery, been out of activities, and can see your assisted devices they ask how you are doing.
I need to become the person I was, interested in life, curious and active.
Anyone struggling with their identity post surgery?
And stopping the fear of falling?
Thank you, Leslie
Leslie
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My approach is to answer briefly without detail (as if it's no big deal, even if it is) then switch the conversation to something of interest to the other person.
Leslie, I had my fusion is 1990 after a fall during an earthquake in 1988 in Los Angeles county north. I had a laminectomy L4 & L5, fusion L4-S1 with stainless steel bars and screws. I wore the claim shell brace for almost a year before gaining my freedom. PT is not what it is today back then and a good HEP would have helped. I also have 20 and 25 degree scoliosis lumbar and thoracic and I’ve shrunk 3” over my life thus far. I always looked forward to the future and what professional I could do since nursing on a patient floor wasn’t happening again. I walked a lot, swam, walked some more, walked our dogs and eventually got to the other side. Now at 74 I don’t plan on any more surgery if I can help it and I’m still walking despite the spinal arthritis and PN.
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1 Reactionleslie77 (@leslie77) this part from your post caught my attention--where can I find support for emotions?
I have found emotional support from friends, family and prayer my whole life of 59 years. But now I am dealing with my first big medical crisis and I am forcing myself to not isolate. I have joined the senior center nearby for all kinds of different classes and it has been great. Since I had to quit my job recently, I had become depressed and knew that I needed help. Therapy is (no joke) $181 per one hour session and that is our cost thru United healthcare. Did that for one month but the cost was too much. Talked to my PCP and decided to use Wellbutrin and it helps a lot.
I agree completely with (@jenatsky) when they said-- I walked a lot, swam, walked some more, walked our dogs and eventually got to the other side.
When my back allows I make myself get outside for sun and walking. Finding Mayo Connect has also really helped. I volunteer when I can also and that puts life in perspective. Much good luck with you and your journey.