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What are people's experiences with spinal fusion surgery?
Spine Health | Last Active: Jun 30 3:25pm | Replies (222)Comment receiving replies
Do any of you regret having fusions on back or neck? I've only had the one fusion of L4-5, and feel once I'm fully healed I can start living again. I'm wearing the back brace for another 2 months to protect the area. I do have neck pain, with similar issues in C5-6-7 area, and have SI joint and degenerative disc disease overall. I'm afraid that if I overdo activity, my pain down into my legs and feet will come back. They cleaned out alot of my bone spurs, arthritis during the fusion surgery, and the numbness and pain in my feet is almost gone. I'm reading these posts from everyone and worry I will do something to cause my pain to return. Thanks everyone for sharing of your experiences, it has been so helpful.
Replies to "Do any of you regret having fusions on back or neck? I've only had the one..."
@ga29 No regrets. A cervical fusion at C5/C6 gave me my life back and my ability to control my arms again (after rehab) so I could paint again as an artist. PT helped a lot, but so did horseback riding just at a walk by sitting with good posture because it builds core strength. Building core strength is the best thing you can do to support the spine and avoid future spine surgery. Of course you do that within your ability and with your doctor's blessings. Believe that you will recover, and do your best to get there. Fear causes pain, so embrace your journey and get outside for some relaxation. Don't wish for more surgery. If you get to where you will need it again, go into it by advocating for your best possible outcome, ask lots of questions, and get as many opinions as you need to make an educated decision. Physical therapy can help in your recovery, and if your PT also does myofascial release, that can help loosen the tight surgical scar tissue. See our MFR discussion for info. https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/myofascial-release-therapy-mfr-for-treating-compression-and-pain/
Here is my story. https://sharing.mayoclinic.org/2019/01/09/using-the-art-of-medicine-to-overcome-fear-of-surgery/
@ga29 No regrets.. it was a great help.. Had it when 57 now at 84 I can dance circles around most of my cohorts.. My fusion was L4,L5, S1.. I had cervical problems about 8 years later .. but I am using the Prescribed Cervical Traction Device to Help give those a rest from the crunch ..use it 20-30 minutes a day... Ken
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I sure hope PT is in your near future? I had my L4-S1 fusion in 1992 and have no regrets even though I’m still in pain to a lesser degree. PT saved my life along with weight loss. It stopped me from having my back redone at 69 yo. Do not let your surgery define you. Take control of your recovery and work at relieving your pain. Don’t be afraid to use medications to control pain as the alternative is too destructive.