The new post-op pain I wrote about finally got better, but I don't think the right side rod and screws are placed as good as the left. I can't feel the left at all, no matter what I do, even at rest after being active. I get tight muscle reaction more so on the right when I'm on feet too long at a time. My right hamstring still tightens up. Like standing at the kitchen sink bending forward just a bit (even though I'm leaning against the cabinet), causes a reaction after a few minutes. Doing just minor core strength exercises causes irritation where the internal scars must be on the right side. I'm always trying positions and movements that will accomplish the same, but anything for abs I feel after on my right side. I haven't had any bad events since like I wrote about 2 years ago with the twisting, but I'm more careful after recovering from that, and it took awhile. By spring 2020, I was moving better and doing more post-op as much as I am now. Fortunately, I can tolerate some pain, but wish I didn't have to. I can go a lot farther and complete more tasks if I alternate doing what I can sitting down vs. what definitely requires standing. I try to avoid bending over to pick anything up, like it's just way better to sit on a bucket and pick up a full bucket as I'm standing, which is what I learned to do for years before the surgery. Still no firm answers for my chronic fatigue after 3 GPs and 3 specialists (RA, sleep, migraines) running every kind of test, so I'm leaning toward it being all "in my head" -- literally being because of chronic sinus drainage that I discovered recently can relate to chronic fatigue, so I have an ENT appointment soon. If I could deal with the chronic fatigue I would probably be pushing my back a lot more.
Glad to hear you're better.
Your muscular response to physical demand such as standing sound a bit like mine. My butt and hamstring tighten up when the nerves are stimulated. I have strength deficit in my glute and in some of my core stabilizing muscles. I work with a PT to improve this with the hope that as the muscles “turn on”, I will have less muscle cramping and be able to do more for longer without having to constantly sit or lay down to let the muscles relax.
I had rods in my lower spine about 4 years ago & wish I had never had it done as the pain is worse than ever, even after lots of physical therapy, medication & shots in the area since surgery. I guess I’ll just have to learn to live with the pain the rest of my life.
I had rods in my lower spine about 4 years ago & wish I had never had it done as the pain is worse than ever, even after lots of physical therapy, medication & shots in the area since surgery. I guess I’ll just have to learn to live with the pain the rest of my life.
Good afternoon @grameed. Unfortunately....as we age, we have to learn to tolerate more discomfort. I am now in love with distractions. Music, walking, exploring, listening, feeding and training my chipmunks, learning bird sounds, having Zoom bed parties with my grandchildren, helping someone else.'
Almost anything except planning meals, shopping for meals and cooking meals helps. I am done in the kitchen. It makes the pain worse and I complain more. So, my loving life partner would rather do it himself than listen to me moan and groan.
What distractions work for you?
May you have happiness and the causes of happiness?
Chris
I just had lumbar spinal fusion L4-L5–S1 using ALIF at age 56. The first procedure was through my abdomen and second part 2 days later involved putting in metal rods and screws from 2 incisions on the back. This is after 20 years of constant lower back pain that was mostly intense aching pain in lower back, though I had occasional sciatica too. I managed via pain meds and exercises (bike riding and racing, lots of stretching every day) that were very helpful, and various surgeries/epidural shots etc. that were not. Looking back, I don’t think I was fully “managing” the past 2-3 years, as my work capacity in a desk job declined. Finally, my pain hit a higher level with some sciatica mixed in and suddenly I could not work or enjoy the sports that helped me before. That’s when I finally arranged to get fusion surgery. I’m now 11 days post op, and I’m having periods of intense pain in the lower back and buttocks that keep me from sleeping. Last night I slept one hour. Tonight it’s 4:20 am (lol) and I had maybe 3 hours of sleep so far and my buttocks hurt so much.
How long should it take before there episodes come to an end? What can I do now?
At present, I spend most of my days in a recliner chair mixed in with short walks. I also sleep in the chair. I’m taking oxycodone, Tylenol, Lyrica, Celebrex, Cyclobenzaprine, and some meds for constipation. I’ve tried ice on the back which helps a little.
I just had lumbar spinal fusion L4-L5–S1 using ALIF at age 56. The first procedure was through my abdomen and second part 2 days later involved putting in metal rods and screws from 2 incisions on the back. This is after 20 years of constant lower back pain that was mostly intense aching pain in lower back, though I had occasional sciatica too. I managed via pain meds and exercises (bike riding and racing, lots of stretching every day) that were very helpful, and various surgeries/epidural shots etc. that were not. Looking back, I don’t think I was fully “managing” the past 2-3 years, as my work capacity in a desk job declined. Finally, my pain hit a higher level with some sciatica mixed in and suddenly I could not work or enjoy the sports that helped me before. That’s when I finally arranged to get fusion surgery. I’m now 11 days post op, and I’m having periods of intense pain in the lower back and buttocks that keep me from sleeping. Last night I slept one hour. Tonight it’s 4:20 am (lol) and I had maybe 3 hours of sleep so far and my buttocks hurt so much.
How long should it take before there episodes come to an end? What can I do now?
At present, I spend most of my days in a recliner chair mixed in with short walks. I also sleep in the chair. I’m taking oxycodone, Tylenol, Lyrica, Celebrex, Cyclobenzaprine, and some meds for constipation. I’ve tried ice on the back which helps a little.
Oh no! I had my four layer fusion revision done on the 17th (front and side) and on my back on the 19th. I am also unable to sleep, I end up flopping from one side to the other. Sleeping in a recliner is so much worse for me. My nerve pain has really increased and gives no relief. This is a really tough operation, I hope we both do better soon!
I just had lumbar spinal fusion L4-L5–S1 using ALIF at age 56. The first procedure was through my abdomen and second part 2 days later involved putting in metal rods and screws from 2 incisions on the back. This is after 20 years of constant lower back pain that was mostly intense aching pain in lower back, though I had occasional sciatica too. I managed via pain meds and exercises (bike riding and racing, lots of stretching every day) that were very helpful, and various surgeries/epidural shots etc. that were not. Looking back, I don’t think I was fully “managing” the past 2-3 years, as my work capacity in a desk job declined. Finally, my pain hit a higher level with some sciatica mixed in and suddenly I could not work or enjoy the sports that helped me before. That’s when I finally arranged to get fusion surgery. I’m now 11 days post op, and I’m having periods of intense pain in the lower back and buttocks that keep me from sleeping. Last night I slept one hour. Tonight it’s 4:20 am (lol) and I had maybe 3 hours of sleep so far and my buttocks hurt so much.
How long should it take before there episodes come to an end? What can I do now?
At present, I spend most of my days in a recliner chair mixed in with short walks. I also sleep in the chair. I’m taking oxycodone, Tylenol, Lyrica, Celebrex, Cyclobenzaprine, and some meds for constipation. I’ve tried ice on the back which helps a little.
Hang in there Julie. I’m optimistic and hope it gets better with each passing day. I have my first physical therapy tomorrow and I’ll see what they can do. I’ve always found PT very helpful.
I just had lumbar spinal fusion L4-L5–S1 using ALIF at age 56. The first procedure was through my abdomen and second part 2 days later involved putting in metal rods and screws from 2 incisions on the back. This is after 20 years of constant lower back pain that was mostly intense aching pain in lower back, though I had occasional sciatica too. I managed via pain meds and exercises (bike riding and racing, lots of stretching every day) that were very helpful, and various surgeries/epidural shots etc. that were not. Looking back, I don’t think I was fully “managing” the past 2-3 years, as my work capacity in a desk job declined. Finally, my pain hit a higher level with some sciatica mixed in and suddenly I could not work or enjoy the sports that helped me before. That’s when I finally arranged to get fusion surgery. I’m now 11 days post op, and I’m having periods of intense pain in the lower back and buttocks that keep me from sleeping. Last night I slept one hour. Tonight it’s 4:20 am (lol) and I had maybe 3 hours of sleep so far and my buttocks hurt so much.
How long should it take before there episodes come to an end? What can I do now?
At present, I spend most of my days in a recliner chair mixed in with short walks. I also sleep in the chair. I’m taking oxycodone, Tylenol, Lyrica, Celebrex, Cyclobenzaprine, and some meds for constipation. I’ve tried ice on the back which helps a little.
I had this surgery 16 years ago and yes, nerve pain is the worst. However drilling into your bones for hardware has to contribute to immense pain. None of the pain meds really helped. When I called my surgeon she told me recovery would be 5 weeks. During this time, my daughter was getting married and I didn’t know how I was going to handle it. I got a tens unit, which was a godsend. Wonder if it could be an option temporarily. Exactly 5 weeks later I was able to discontinue home healthcare and resume my life. It’s definitely a test of endurance.
I just had lumbar spinal fusion L4-L5–S1 using ALIF at age 56. The first procedure was through my abdomen and second part 2 days later involved putting in metal rods and screws from 2 incisions on the back. This is after 20 years of constant lower back pain that was mostly intense aching pain in lower back, though I had occasional sciatica too. I managed via pain meds and exercises (bike riding and racing, lots of stretching every day) that were very helpful, and various surgeries/epidural shots etc. that were not. Looking back, I don’t think I was fully “managing” the past 2-3 years, as my work capacity in a desk job declined. Finally, my pain hit a higher level with some sciatica mixed in and suddenly I could not work or enjoy the sports that helped me before. That’s when I finally arranged to get fusion surgery. I’m now 11 days post op, and I’m having periods of intense pain in the lower back and buttocks that keep me from sleeping. Last night I slept one hour. Tonight it’s 4:20 am (lol) and I had maybe 3 hours of sleep so far and my buttocks hurt so much.
How long should it take before there episodes come to an end? What can I do now?
At present, I spend most of my days in a recliner chair mixed in with short walks. I also sleep in the chair. I’m taking oxycodone, Tylenol, Lyrica, Celebrex, Cyclobenzaprine, and some meds for constipation. I’ve tried ice on the back which helps a little.
I have had two spinal fusions the last one on 6/1/23 from S1-T11. My first fusion was anterior posterior S1-L4 with plates, rods, and screws. I was told NOT to take ANY NSAID's hence Celebrex, for the first three months. I am 69 years old and now pain fee. I would try stopping the Celebrex. Your Oxycodone should be enough to manage the pain. TENS is great too (I am a therapist) as is lots of patience. It will take 4-8 months to feel like yourself again. Maybe even a year. Nerves heal slowly. It WILL get better..
I just had lumbar spinal fusion L4-L5–S1 using ALIF at age 56. The first procedure was through my abdomen and second part 2 days later involved putting in metal rods and screws from 2 incisions on the back. This is after 20 years of constant lower back pain that was mostly intense aching pain in lower back, though I had occasional sciatica too. I managed via pain meds and exercises (bike riding and racing, lots of stretching every day) that were very helpful, and various surgeries/epidural shots etc. that were not. Looking back, I don’t think I was fully “managing” the past 2-3 years, as my work capacity in a desk job declined. Finally, my pain hit a higher level with some sciatica mixed in and suddenly I could not work or enjoy the sports that helped me before. That’s when I finally arranged to get fusion surgery. I’m now 11 days post op, and I’m having periods of intense pain in the lower back and buttocks that keep me from sleeping. Last night I slept one hour. Tonight it’s 4:20 am (lol) and I had maybe 3 hours of sleep so far and my buttocks hurt so much.
How long should it take before there episodes come to an end? What can I do now?
At present, I spend most of my days in a recliner chair mixed in with short walks. I also sleep in the chair. I’m taking oxycodone, Tylenol, Lyrica, Celebrex, Cyclobenzaprine, and some meds for constipation. I’ve tried ice on the back which helps a little.
Yes, hang in there, as this too shall pass and hopefully quickly! I am praying for you mlbobcat. On May 31 & June 2, 2023 I had pretty much had the same surgeries as you. An ALIF first, double fusion (L3-4, L5-S1) and a PLIF revision at L4-5. I had my first fusion 13 years ago and totally agree the healing process is slow. The TENS idea could be very helpful. RE: Meds I was taking post-surgery all of the same drugs as you currently are, minus the Celebrex as I was told the NSAIDS could slow up the fusion process. After discussing via the patient portal with my surgical team I started at 3-weeks post op weaning off all of the pain meds (except Tylenol). I found they were delaying my progress since I was so foggy, unable to focus and were limiting my activity (walking) throughout the day. The walking (my surgeon says no PT until the fusion has occurred) is so important to get the healing process going. Therefore, at bedtime, since my activity level was so limited, I did not sleep as well as I should have. Without the meds, I started walking a lot more outside and the really good news is my leg nerve pain has slowly improved and I am now sleeping very well. I also have many pillows in my bed, under my knees when on my back or behind my back when on my side. Prior to bedtime I ice up front & back. Since my brain can focus again I enjoy reading at bedtime and this helps distract my mind from the leg nerve pain. Prayers you can get some good sleep real soon. We're all in this together! I am ever grateful for a significant reduction in my pain and pray that you will find the same soon. We all want to get our lives BACK in control and not vice versa have our backs in control of our lives. Bless you!
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Phil. 4:13
I just had lumbar spinal fusion L4-L5–S1 using ALIF at age 56. The first procedure was through my abdomen and second part 2 days later involved putting in metal rods and screws from 2 incisions on the back. This is after 20 years of constant lower back pain that was mostly intense aching pain in lower back, though I had occasional sciatica too. I managed via pain meds and exercises (bike riding and racing, lots of stretching every day) that were very helpful, and various surgeries/epidural shots etc. that were not. Looking back, I don’t think I was fully “managing” the past 2-3 years, as my work capacity in a desk job declined. Finally, my pain hit a higher level with some sciatica mixed in and suddenly I could not work or enjoy the sports that helped me before. That’s when I finally arranged to get fusion surgery. I’m now 11 days post op, and I’m having periods of intense pain in the lower back and buttocks that keep me from sleeping. Last night I slept one hour. Tonight it’s 4:20 am (lol) and I had maybe 3 hours of sleep so far and my buttocks hurt so much.
How long should it take before there episodes come to an end? What can I do now?
At present, I spend most of my days in a recliner chair mixed in with short walks. I also sleep in the chair. I’m taking oxycodone, Tylenol, Lyrica, Celebrex, Cyclobenzaprine, and some meds for constipation. I’ve tried ice on the back which helps a little.
I have not had any fusions (🙏) but have severe scoliosis and every thing else you can think of…just had nerve ablation in 6 lower spine places after many years of trying everything else.
But maybe can add that tens is awesome, just wear something with pockets and lots of batteries handy. The other thing I found that an acupuncturist used on me, is a cream called Sombra, can buy online, and really helps the pain in my butt, legs and back. Feels a little burning at first, but then goes to a comfortable heat/cool. No drugs. Lasts several hours and along with lots of pillows is sometimes the only way I can get to sleep. Wash your hands well after use!
I hope you all find ways to to get back to a pain free life!
Connect
Connect
Like
Helpful
Hug
Glad to hear you're better.
Your muscular response to physical demand such as standing sound a bit like mine. My butt and hamstring tighten up when the nerves are stimulated. I have strength deficit in my glute and in some of my core stabilizing muscles. I work with a PT to improve this with the hope that as the muscles “turn on”, I will have less muscle cramping and be able to do more for longer without having to constantly sit or lay down to let the muscles relax.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionI had rods in my lower spine about 4 years ago & wish I had never had it done as the pain is worse than ever, even after lots of physical therapy, medication & shots in the area since surgery. I guess I’ll just have to learn to live with the pain the rest of my life.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionGood afternoon @grameed. Unfortunately....as we age, we have to learn to tolerate more discomfort. I am now in love with distractions. Music, walking, exploring, listening, feeding and training my chipmunks, learning bird sounds, having Zoom bed parties with my grandchildren, helping someone else.'
Almost anything except planning meals, shopping for meals and cooking meals helps. I am done in the kitchen. It makes the pain worse and I complain more. So, my loving life partner would rather do it himself than listen to me moan and groan.
What distractions work for you?
May you have happiness and the causes of happiness?
Chris
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionI just had lumbar spinal fusion L4-L5–S1 using ALIF at age 56. The first procedure was through my abdomen and second part 2 days later involved putting in metal rods and screws from 2 incisions on the back. This is after 20 years of constant lower back pain that was mostly intense aching pain in lower back, though I had occasional sciatica too. I managed via pain meds and exercises (bike riding and racing, lots of stretching every day) that were very helpful, and various surgeries/epidural shots etc. that were not. Looking back, I don’t think I was fully “managing” the past 2-3 years, as my work capacity in a desk job declined. Finally, my pain hit a higher level with some sciatica mixed in and suddenly I could not work or enjoy the sports that helped me before. That’s when I finally arranged to get fusion surgery. I’m now 11 days post op, and I’m having periods of intense pain in the lower back and buttocks that keep me from sleeping. Last night I slept one hour. Tonight it’s 4:20 am (lol) and I had maybe 3 hours of sleep so far and my buttocks hurt so much.
How long should it take before there episodes come to an end? What can I do now?
At present, I spend most of my days in a recliner chair mixed in with short walks. I also sleep in the chair. I’m taking oxycodone, Tylenol, Lyrica, Celebrex, Cyclobenzaprine, and some meds for constipation. I’ve tried ice on the back which helps a little.
Any insights would be much appreciated!
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
9 ReactionsOh no! I had my four layer fusion revision done on the 17th (front and side) and on my back on the 19th. I am also unable to sleep, I end up flopping from one side to the other. Sleeping in a recliner is so much worse for me. My nerve pain has really increased and gives no relief. This is a really tough operation, I hope we both do better soon!
Best,
Julie
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
8 ReactionsHang in there Julie. I’m optimistic and hope it gets better with each passing day. I have my first physical therapy tomorrow and I’ll see what they can do. I’ve always found PT very helpful.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
3 ReactionsI had this surgery 16 years ago and yes, nerve pain is the worst. However drilling into your bones for hardware has to contribute to immense pain. None of the pain meds really helped. When I called my surgeon she told me recovery would be 5 weeks. During this time, my daughter was getting married and I didn’t know how I was going to handle it. I got a tens unit, which was a godsend. Wonder if it could be an option temporarily. Exactly 5 weeks later I was able to discontinue home healthcare and resume my life. It’s definitely a test of endurance.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
5 ReactionsI have had two spinal fusions the last one on 6/1/23 from S1-T11. My first fusion was anterior posterior S1-L4 with plates, rods, and screws. I was told NOT to take ANY NSAID's hence Celebrex, for the first three months. I am 69 years old and now pain fee. I would try stopping the Celebrex. Your Oxycodone should be enough to manage the pain. TENS is great too (I am a therapist) as is lots of patience. It will take 4-8 months to feel like yourself again. Maybe even a year. Nerves heal slowly. It WILL get better..
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
2 ReactionsYes, hang in there, as this too shall pass and hopefully quickly! I am praying for you mlbobcat. On May 31 & June 2, 2023 I had pretty much had the same surgeries as you. An ALIF first, double fusion (L3-4, L5-S1) and a PLIF revision at L4-5. I had my first fusion 13 years ago and totally agree the healing process is slow. The TENS idea could be very helpful. RE: Meds I was taking post-surgery all of the same drugs as you currently are, minus the Celebrex as I was told the NSAIDS could slow up the fusion process. After discussing via the patient portal with my surgical team I started at 3-weeks post op weaning off all of the pain meds (except Tylenol). I found they were delaying my progress since I was so foggy, unable to focus and were limiting my activity (walking) throughout the day. The walking (my surgeon says no PT until the fusion has occurred) is so important to get the healing process going. Therefore, at bedtime, since my activity level was so limited, I did not sleep as well as I should have. Without the meds, I started walking a lot more outside and the really good news is my leg nerve pain has slowly improved and I am now sleeping very well. I also have many pillows in my bed, under my knees when on my back or behind my back when on my side. Prior to bedtime I ice up front & back. Since my brain can focus again I enjoy reading at bedtime and this helps distract my mind from the leg nerve pain. Prayers you can get some good sleep real soon. We're all in this together! I am ever grateful for a significant reduction in my pain and pray that you will find the same soon. We all want to get our lives BACK in control and not vice versa have our backs in control of our lives. Bless you!
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Phil. 4:13
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
9 ReactionsI have not had any fusions (🙏) but have severe scoliosis and every thing else you can think of…just had nerve ablation in 6 lower spine places after many years of trying everything else.
But maybe can add that tens is awesome, just wear something with pockets and lots of batteries handy. The other thing I found that an acupuncturist used on me, is a cream called Sombra, can buy online, and really helps the pain in my butt, legs and back. Feels a little burning at first, but then goes to a comfortable heat/cool. No drugs. Lasts several hours and along with lots of pillows is sometimes the only way I can get to sleep. Wash your hands well after use!
I hope you all find ways to to get back to a pain free life!
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
4 Reactions