Good Morning,
Just thought I would fill you in on my progress since my fusion surgeon 2 1/2 weeks ago.
I had my first post-op x-ray of my L3/4 fusion.
I am healing very well.
I will take another x-ray before my next appointment in 4 weeks.

As far as my abilities.
I still need to walk with assistance because of the pain, I am not steady on my feet.
As per my doctor's instructions, I walk (with the walker) at least 3 times a day, 15-20 minutes each walk.
When I am not 'exercising', I use the cane.
I still can't bend, reach, stretch or twist.
I also can't go into my swimming pool.
I'm still on pain medication so I can't drive.

As far as pain is concerned:
I am still in bad pain.
I take my pain pill regularly throughout the day (every 5 hrs.).
The morning, getting our of bed, is a BIG issue.
The pain is horrible!!
I need my husband with me for fear that I will get a spasm and fall.
Throughout the day, the pain and spasms subside.
I cannot sleep in my bed because the mattress is too firm.
Luckily, I have a softer mattress in my guest room, that is
perfect...…
How was it in the 3 BEARS? 1 was too soft, 1 was too hard, but 1 was just right! 🙂
The pain goes from my lower back and down my legs.
This is surgical pain and nerve inflamation.
Thankfully, I feel a big difference in my right leg.
I go back to the doctor in 4 weeks.
Hopefully, I won't need assistive devices to walk, I'll be off pain med. so I can drive and do all the things I can't do now.
Was this surgery worth it?
Depending on when I am asked that question, depends on my answer.
Truth is, I really had no choice.
If I continued on the road I was on, I probably would have wound up in a wheelchair and in constant pain. I had not alternatives left.
I am hoping this surgery will be the answer to my chroic pain.
The pain, along with the spasms, I very painful!
Deciding to have this surgery is something not to be taken lightly.
I would make sure I've exhausted every option, including thinking out of the box.
I know that over time, I will feel better.
My only worry now is to make sure I don't become dependent on the pain med.
My doc is overseeing that I don't.
Hopefully, by next week, I'll be able to take my pain med less frequently and even more less frequently the following week, etc.
Thanks for letting me share!
If you are thinking of having fusion surgery or you already had it and you have questions, don't hesitate to ask.

Have a pain-free day......
Ronnie (GRANDMAr)