Re: TLIF spinal fusion recovery

[Guest guest]

_loangoddess1961@..._ (mailto:loangoddess1961@...) writes: <<

Everything I do takes so long. Can anyone share their experiences with

recovery from this procedure?>>

Yes, please, someone share if they can - as I am having this procedure done

on my L5/S1 in 2 weeks from today!

Rhonda, how long were you in the hospital for the initial surgery? I just

left a voice mail for my surgeon to see if I can get an estimate because the

hospital is over an hr away from my home. I'm sorry you're having a bad recovery

and hope you get to feeling better soon. What kind of post-op medications

have they given you? I've been on Flexeril, 3 x day for nearly 17 months so if

they told me to just take another muscle relaxer I don't think it would have

any affect on me at all! You will certainly be in my thoughts and prayers.

Thanks in advance!

Best regards,

Patty A

--------------------------

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redistribution outside this list without express written permission is not

permitted.

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[Guest guest]

The doctor came out of the operating room and told my mom that everything went

well and I could expect to go home the next day! Needless to say I had extreme

spasms for a day and a half post surgery. I wound up staying for 3 days.

They should have sent me to a rehab center instead of sending me home so

quickly. At rehab I was taught some tricks to makes a few things easier such as

how to roll over by myself, how to use my walker in the steps and even how you

can use the walker backwards to lower yourself onto a regular toilet. One of

the most frustrating things I experienced was multiple phone calls for help and

the callusness of the medical personnel. I learned since that 50%of patients do

go into rehab but most of them ate older than my age of 47. I have a pretty good

case of scoliosis above the fusion which may be complicating matters. I also had

trouble scheduling my physical therapy for when my daughter gets home from

school so she can drive me. Unless you are a senior you have to find your own

transportation for PT and doctors appointments if you can't drive. My mom only

stayed with me for 2 weeks and flew back to Florida the very night of my big

collapse. I do start PT

tomorrow at a place that has later hours.

Thanks!

Rhonda

On Dec 1, 2008, at 11:20 AM, NCGorgeous1963@... wrote:

_loangoddess1961@..._ (mailto:loangoddess1961@...) writes: <<

Everything I do takes so long. Can anyone share their experiences with

recovery from this procedure?>>

Yes, please, someone share if they can - as I am having this procedure done

on my L5/S1 in 2 weeks from today!

Rhonda, how long were you in the hospital for the initial surgery? I just

left a voice mail for my surgeon to see if I can get an estimate because the

hospital is over an hr away from my home. I'm sorry you're having a bad recovery

and hope you get to feeling better soon. What kind of post-op medications

have they given you? I've been on Flexeril, 3 x day for nearly 17 months so if

they told me to just take another muscle relaxer I don't think it would have

any affect on me at all! You will certainly be in my thoughts and prayers.

Thanks in advance!

Best regards,

Patty A

--------------------------

Above text © 2008 PEA. . Any copying, transcription or

redistribution outside this list without express written permission is not

permitted.

**************Life should be easier. So should your homepage. Try the NEW

AOL.com.

(http://www.aol.com/?optin=new-dp & icid=aolcom40vanity & ncid=emlcntaolcom00000002)

[Guest guest]

I am scheduled for spinal fusion surgery on Jan. 8th. I am so scared, especially

after reading these post on here from ppl who have recently had the surgery. The

doctor told me that I would go home the next day. I thought that was a little

soon. I do have a good support system here at home, but I am scared of these

muscle spasms and the collaspse that ppl are talking about.

 

Is there anyone out there that has not had these problems?

 

Rhonda,

 

I hope you feel better and get things straightened out. I will be praying for

you and all the others who suffer from this pain. Have a good holiday. Dawn

From: Rhonda <loangoddess1961@...>

Subject: TLIF spinal fusion recovery

" spinal problems "

<spinal problems >

Date: Monday, December 1, 2008, 10:38 AM

On Oct. 22nd I had a spinal fusion between L4 & L5 in what they call a minamally

invasive procedure. They made me leave the hospital before I felt I was ready. 2

weeks after surgery I collapsed after a huge spasm and fortunately was caught by

my boyfriend who was visiting. I spent 2 frustrating days filled with spasms

trying to get help. The nurse at the clinic said to take another muscle relaxer.

I convinced her to send a nurse to my home to evaluate me. She immediatleu

called 911 and was boarded up and taken via ambulance to the hospital where I

stayed for rehab for a week. It is now Dec. 1 and by now I should be back to

work according to the picture painted by my doctor. I am still in lots of pain

and only walk carefully with a walker. I am not driving yet. I live part time

with my two teens and feel so dependent. Everything I do takes so long. Can

anyone share their experiences with recovery from this procedure?

Thanks!

Rhonda

[Guest guest]

Dawn you are indeed fortunate for a good home support system. I'm told everyone

heals differently. Prior to my surgery people were eagar to relay horror stories

to me and it made me nervous. My intent is not to worry you but to find guidance

for my situation. Just remember it is major back surgery. My best advice is to

keep your walker with you always until you are fully recovered.

Thanks!

Rhonda

On Dec 1, 2008, at 12:49 PM, Dawn Blackwood <lvjamaica2004@...> wrote:

I am scheduled for spinal fusion surgery on Jan. 8th. I am so scared, especially

after reading these post on here from ppl who have recently had the surgery. The

doctor told me that I would go home the next day. I thought that was a little

soon. I do have a good support system here at home, but I am scared of these

muscle spasms and the collaspse that ppl are talking about.

Is there anyone out there that has not had these problems?

Rhonda,

I hope you feel better and get things straightened out. I will be praying for

you and all the others who suffer from this pain. Have a good holiday. Dawn

From: Rhonda <loangoddess1961@...>

Subject: TLIF spinal fusion recovery

" spinal problems "

<spinal problems >

Date: Monday, December 1, 2008, 10:38 AM

On Oct. 22nd I had a spinal fusion between L4 & L5 in what they call a minamally

invasive procedure. They made me leave the hospital before I felt I was ready. 2

weeks after surgery I collapsed after a huge spasm and fortunately was caught by

my boyfriend who was visiting. I spent 2 frustrating days filled with spasms

trying to get help. The nurse at the clinic said to take another muscle relaxer.

I convinced her to send a nurse to my home to evaluate me. She immediatleu

called 911 and was boarded up and taken via ambulance to the hospital where I

stayed for rehab for a week. It is now Dec. 1 and by now I should be back to

work according to the picture painted by my doctor. I am still in lots of pain

and only walk carefully with a walker. I am not driving yet. I live part time

with my two teens and feel so dependent. Everything I do takes so long. Can

anyone share their experiences with recovery from this procedure?

Thanks!

Rhonda

[Guest guest]

Dawn,

That is your doc's hope to send you home...if you are not ready PUT THE

BRAKES ON and basically say " I am not ready because of

(examples....uncontrolled pain, bladder problems, bowel problems, unable to

get up or down, pain not controlled...whatever has you scared...voice the

complaint to the RN first, the neuro or surg second......if you have

medicare and feel as though you are being discharged too soon there is a

hotline that you call (if you have medicare it will be given upon admission)

if that doesn't work ask to speak with the discharge coordinator or social

worker. Also, if the layout of your home is such that you have to walk up

15 steps to get to your front door and you cant walk up one...tell the doc

that. As long as you are clear with the objective and subjective reasons

the doc is going to listen to you...

Make sure the doc orders scheduled muscle relaxers rather then PRN (as

necessary) that way you will receive around the clock and if you are able to

sleep for 12 hours you wont wake up in a spasm.

Also, a patients worst day is not the day of surgery and not the next

morning....the 24th hour to the 48th hour is when the body realizes that

" whoa nelly....what did you do to me " ...I think this is why surgeons come in

the next morning after surgery and say ready to go home.....because often

the patient is still in the post op honeymoon phase.

Understand that everyone is different....and you know your body better then

anyone else.

Can I ask what levels are you having fused? I hope that you are having a

pain free day.

Deb RN

From: spinal problems

[mailto:spinal problems ] On Behalf Of Rhonda

Sent: Monday, December 01, 2008 12:03 PM

spinal problems

Subject: Re: TLIF spinal fusion recovery

Dawn you are indeed fortunate for a good home support system. I'm told

everyone heals differently. Prior to my surgery people were eagar to relay

horror stories to me and it made me nervous. My intent is not to worry you

but to find guidance for my situation. Just remember it is major back

surgery. My best advice is to keep your walker with you always until you are

fully recovered.

Thanks!

Rhonda

On Dec 1, 2008, at 12:49 PM, Dawn Blackwood <lvjamaica2004@...

<mailto:lvjamaica2004%40> > wrote:

I am scheduled for spinal fusion surgery on Jan. 8th. I am so scared,

especially after reading these post on here from ppl who have recently had

the surgery. The doctor told me that I would go home the next day. I thought

that was a little soon. I do have a good support system here at home, but I

am scared of these muscle spasms and the collaspse that ppl are talking

about.

Is there anyone out there that has not had these problems?

Rhonda,

I hope you feel better and get things straightened out. I will be praying

for you and all the others who suffer from this pain. Have a good holiday.

Dawn

From: Rhonda <loangoddess1961@... <mailto:loangoddess1961%40>

>

Subject: TLIF spinal fusion recovery

" spinal problems

<mailto:spinal problems%40> "

<spinal problems

<mailto:spinal problems%40> >

Date: Monday, December 1, 2008, 10:38 AM

On Oct. 22nd I had a spinal fusion between L4 & L5 in what they call a

minamally invasive procedure. They made me leave the hospital before I felt

I was ready. 2 weeks after surgery I collapsed after a huge spasm and

fortunately was caught by my boyfriend who was visiting. I spent 2

frustrating days filled with spasms trying to get help. The nurse at the

clinic said to take another muscle relaxer. I convinced her to send a nurse

to my home to evaluate me. She immediatleu called 911 and was boarded up and

taken via ambulance to the hospital where I stayed for rehab for a week. It

is now Dec. 1 and by now I should be back to work according to the picture

painted by my doctor. I am still in lots of pain and only walk carefully

with a walker. I am not driving yet. I live part time with my two teens and

feel so dependent. Everything I do takes so long. Can anyone share their

experiences with recovery from this procedure?

Thanks!

Rhonda

[Guest guest]

Rhonda,

If you have medicare..ask your doc for in home PT and OT...medicare is the

most stringent standard you have to be homebound...other insurance is much

easier....I had PT and OT after a hospitalization for severe spasms.....the

doc had no problem with it..so if this will be a prob just ask...

Deb RN

From: spinal problems

[mailto:spinal problems ] On Behalf Of Rhonda

Sent: Monday, December 01, 2008 10:40 AM

spinal problems

Cc: spinal problems

Subject: Re: TLIF spinal fusion recovery

The doctor came out of the operating room and told my mom that everything

went well and I could expect to go home the next day! Needless to say I had

extreme spasms for a day and a half post surgery. I wound up staying for 3

days.

They should have sent me to a rehab center instead of sending me home so

quickly. At rehab I was taught some tricks to makes a few things easier such

as how to roll over by myself, how to use my walker in the steps and even

how you can use the walker backwards to lower yourself onto a regular

toilet. One of the most frustrating things I experienced was multiple phone

calls for help and the callusness of the medical personnel. I learned since

that 50%of patients do go into rehab but most of them ate older than my age

of 47. I have a pretty good case of scoliosis above the fusion which may be

complicating matters. I also had trouble scheduling my physical therapy for

when my daughter gets home from school so she can drive me. Unless you are a

senior you have to find your own transportation for PT and doctors

appointments if you can't drive. My mom only stayed with me for 2 weeks and

flew back to Florida the very night of my big collapse. I do start PT

tomorrow at a place that has later hours.

Thanks!

Rhonda

On Dec 1, 2008, at 11:20 AM, NCGorgeous1963@...

<mailto:NCGorgeous1963%40aol.com> wrote:

_loangoddess1961@... <mailto:_loangoddess1961%40> _

(mailto:loangoddess1961@... <mailto:loangoddess1961%40> )

writes: <<

Everything I do takes so long. Can anyone share their experiences with

recovery from this procedure?>>

Yes, please, someone share if they can - as I am having this procedure done

on my L5/S1 in 2 weeks from today!

Rhonda, how long were you in the hospital for the initial surgery? I just

left a voice mail for my surgeon to see if I can get an estimate because the

hospital is over an hr away from my home. I'm sorry you're having a bad

recovery

and hope you get to feeling better soon. What kind of post-op medications

have they given you? I've been on Flexeril, 3 x day for nearly 17 months so

if

they told me to just take another muscle relaxer I don't think it would have

any affect on me at all! You will certainly be in my thoughts and prayers.

Thanks in advance!

Best regards,

Patty A

--------------------------

Above text © 2008 PEA. . Any copying, transcription or

redistribution outside this list without express written permission is not

permitted.

**************Life should be easier. So should your homepage. Try the NEW

AOL.com.

(http://www.aol.com/?optin=new-dp

<http://www.aol.com/?optin=new-dp & icid=aolcom40vanity & ncid=emlcntaolcom00000

002> & icid=aolcom40vanity & ncid=emlcntaolcom00000002)

[Guest guest]

I had a cervical fusion with hardware in July of last year. I was in

the hospital three days and it wasn't too terribly bad. I have

residual effects (pains) from the surgery, but nowhere near the pain

I had prior to the surgery. I know that a lumbar fusion is probably

worse. God bless and Good luck.

>

> From: Rhonda <loangoddess1961@...>

> Subject: TLIF spinal fusion recovery

> " spinal problems "

<spinal problems >

> Date: Monday, December 1, 2008, 10:38 AM

>

> On Oct. 22nd I had a spinal fusion between L4 & L5 in what they

call a minamally invasive procedure. They made me leave the hospital

before I felt I was ready. 2 weeks after surgery I collapsed after a

huge spasm and fortunately was caught by my boyfriend who was

visiting. I spent 2 frustrating days filled with spasms trying to get

help. The nurse at the clinic said to take another muscle relaxer. I

convinced her to send a nurse to my home to evaluate me. She

immediatleu called 911 and was boarded up and taken via ambulance to

the hospital where I stayed for rehab for a week. It is now Dec. 1

and by now I should be back to work according to the picture painted

by my doctor. I am still in lots of pain and only walk carefully with

a walker. I am not driving yet. I live part time with my two teens

and feel so dependent. Everything I do takes so long. Can anyone

share their experiences with recovery from this procedure?

>

> Thanks!

> Rhonda

>

>

[Guest guest]

I would like to offer a little bit of my experience with this type of procedure,

if ya'll don't mind, just remember I am not a doctor, and this is just my

opinion.

First the neuro group said I would be in the hospital from 3-5 days. I guess

that's the normal time given, (haha!) don't believe it, and don't get into a

hurry to get out either, because you have to be careful, I had a very

experienced nurse the first few nights post-opt, the first thing she said is if

you want to get through this, then listen to what I tell you, TAKE YOUR TIME!!!

you must be very careful, make the wrong move, and you could really get into a

lot of trouble. I don't know how to make it anymore clearer than that. I was in

for 11 days, but I was very determined to get out sooner, thanks to the doctors

and nursing staff, it didn't happen. 

As far as pain control, I was on a pump for pain meds, and had break thru

orders, use them while you can, this is when I discovered lyrica, because my

legs ached really bad, and lyrica got me through that. 

If you can start now to build up your arm strength, you will need to depend on

upper body strength. I had a bed with the trapeze over top, that will be your

friend. The main thing is to not twist at your waist.

 I am reluctant to say to much of what I happened to others as a result of not

following orders, because of changing any-ones mind, if you need the surgery,

please don't make a decision on what I say here. If you follow what the nurse's

and doctors say you will do great. They will teach you how to get out of bed,

until then have the nurses to show you how and help you. I absolutely loved my

nurses, they were so good to me, but I married one also. lol Not as a result of

my surgery though, that wouldn't be right. Right? Or should I say that would be

wrong. Right?

Anyway, good luck Patty A., Once you get past this you will say it's not that

bad. I will be praying for your quick recovery. And let me know ASAP how your

doing, I can give you some more advise from my experience if you would like.

 

george

 

The dog has seldom been successful in pulling man up to its level of sagacity,

but man has frequently dragged the dog down to his. Thurber

________________________________

From: " NCGorgeous1963@... " <NCGorgeous1963@...>

spinal problems

Sent: Monday, December 1, 2008 10:20:26 AM

Subject: Re: TLIF spinal fusion recovery

_loangoddess1961_ (mailto:loangoddess1961) writes: <<

Everything I do takes so long. Can anyone share their experiences with

recovery from this procedure?>>

Yes, please, someone share if they can - as I am having this procedure done

on my L5/S1 in 2 weeks from today!

Rhonda, how long were you in the hospital for the initial surgery? I just

left a voice mail for my surgeon to see if I can get an estimate because the

hospital is over an hr away from my home. I'm sorry you're having a bad recovery

and hope you get to feeling better soon. What kind of post-op medications

have they given you? I've been on Flexeril, 3 x day for nearly 17 months so if

they told me to just take another muscle relaxer I don't think it would have

any affect on me at all! You will certainly be in my thoughts and prayers.

Thanks in advance!

Best regards,

Patty A

------------ --------- -----

Above text © 2008 PEA. . Any copying, transcription or

redistribution outside this list without express written permission is not

permitted.

************ **Life should be easier. So should your homepage. Try the NEW

AOL.com..

(http://www.aol. com/?optin= new-dp & icid= aolcom40vanity & ncid=emlcntaolco

m00000002)

[Guest guest]

I totally agree with the upper body strength needed post surgery. I had been

doing wts, chin ip assists, water exercise etc and had pretty good arm strength

prior to surgery. It takes every bit of it to get up out of bed the way they

teach you. I had no trapeze. I log roll to the side and push up with my arms.

Get in as good of a shape as possible before surgery.

Thanks!

Rhonda

On Dec 2, 2008, at 10:52 AM, Lambert <glambert28@...> wrote:

I would like to offer a little bit of my experience with this type of procedure,

if ya'll don't mind, just remember I am not a doctor, and this is just my

opinion.

First the neuro group said I would be in the hospital from 3-5 days. I guess

that's the normal time given, (haha!) don't believe it, and don't get into a

hurry to get out either, because you have to be careful, I had a very

experienced nurse the first few nights post-opt, the first thing she said is if

you want to get through this, then listen to what I tell you, TAKE YOUR TIME!!!

you must be very careful, make the wrong move, and you could really get into a

lot of trouble. I don't know how to make it anymore clearer than that. I was in

for 11 days, but I was very determined to get out sooner, thanks to the doctors

and nursing staff, it didn't happen.

As far as pain control, I was on a pump for pain meds, and had break thru

orders, use them while you can, this is when I discovered lyrica, because my

legs ached really bad, and lyrica got me through that.

If you can start now to build up your arm strength, you will need to depend on

upper body strength. I had a bed with the trapeze over top, that will be your

friend. The main thing is to not twist at your waist.

I am reluctant to say to much of what I happened to others as a result of not

following orders, because of changing any-ones mind, if you need the surgery,

please don't make a decision on what I say here. If you follow what the nurse's

and doctors say you will do great. They will teach you how to get out of bed,

until then have the nurses to show you how and help you. I absolutely loved my

nurses, they were so good to me, but I married one also. lol Not as a result of

my surgery though, that wouldn't be right. Right? Or should I say that would be

wrong. Right?

Anyway, good luck Patty A., Once you get past this you will say it's not that

bad. I will be praying for your quick recovery. And let me know ASAP how your

doing, I can give you some more advise from my experience if you would like.

george

The dog has seldom been successful in pulling man up to its level of sagacity,

but man has frequently dragged the dog down to his. Thurber

________________________________

From: " NCGorgeous1963@... " <NCGorgeous1963@...>

spinal problems

Sent: Monday, December 1, 2008 10:20:26 AM

Subject: Re: TLIF spinal fusion recovery

_loangoddess1961_ (mailto:loangoddess1961) writes: <<

Everything I do takes so long. Can anyone share their experiences with

recovery from this procedure?>>

Yes, please, someone share if they can - as I am having this procedure done

on my L5/S1 in 2 weeks from today!

Rhonda, how long were you in the hospital for the initial surgery? I just

left a voice mail for my surgeon to see if I can get an estimate because the

hospital is over an hr away from my home. I'm sorry you're having a bad recovery

and hope you get to feeling better soon. What kind of post-op medications

have they given you? I've been on Flexeril, 3 x day for nearly 17 months so if

they told me to just take another muscle relaxer I don't think it would have

any affect on me at all! You will certainly be in my thoughts and prayers.

Thanks in advance!

Best regards,

Patty A

------------ --------- -----

Above text © 2008 PEA. . Any copying, transcription or

redistribution outside this list without express written permission is not

permitted.

************ **Life should be easier. So should your homepage. Try the NEW

AOL.com..

(http://www.aol. com/?optin= new-dp & icid= aolcom40vanity & ncid=emlcntaolco

m00000002)

[Guest guest]

,

I bet you make it easy for the nurses to take care of you.........Patty, one

thing I want to make sure you understand....that if nurse A comes in the

first night and tells you to do a,b,and c like this....dont be alarmed if

the next night the nurse shows you how to do A,B, and C a totally different

way...neither one is wrong....there are different ways to skin a horse...or

drive a patient crazy......once you have listened....do it the way it works

for you.......my biggest concern in the hospital would be a tech or an

assistant who is an a hurry when you are getting you up and rather then give

you the time to do it yourself with assistance will try to do it for you to

speed you up. I have had two laminectomies and to many abdominal surgeries

to count.....I want the nurses there in case.....but I don't want them

physically moving me.....

Deb RN

From: spinal problems

[mailto:spinal problems ] On Behalf Of Rhonda

Sent: Tuesday, December 02, 2008 10:25 AM

spinal problems

Subject: Re: TLIF spinal fusion recovery

I totally agree with the upper body strength needed post surgery. I had been

doing wts, chin ip assists, water exercise etc and had pretty good arm

strength prior to surgery. It takes every bit of it to get up out of bed the

way they teach you. I had no trapeze. I log roll to the side and push up

with my arms. Get in as good of a shape as possible before surgery.

Thanks!

Rhonda

On Dec 2, 2008, at 10:52 AM, Lambert <glambert28@...

<mailto:glambert28%40> > wrote:

I would like to offer a little bit of my experience with this type of

procedure, if ya'll don't mind, just remember I am not a doctor, and this is

just my opinion.

First the neuro group said I would be in the hospital from 3-5 days. I guess

that's the normal time given, (haha!) don't believe it, and don't get into a

hurry to get out either, because you have to be careful, I had a very

experienced nurse the first few nights post-opt, the first thing she said is

if you want to get through this, then listen to what I tell you, TAKE YOUR

TIME!!! you must be very careful, make the wrong move, and you could really

get into a lot of trouble. I don't know how to make it anymore clearer than

that. I was in for 11 days, but I was very determined to get out sooner,

thanks to the doctors and nursing staff, it didn't happen.

As far as pain control, I was on a pump for pain meds, and had break thru

orders, use them while you can, this is when I discovered lyrica, because my

legs ached really bad, and lyrica got me through that.

If you can start now to build up your arm strength, you will need to depend

on upper body strength. I had a bed with the trapeze over top, that will be

your friend. The main thing is to not twist at your waist.

I am reluctant to say to much of what I happened to others as a result of

not following orders, because of changing any-ones mind, if you need the

surgery, please don't make a decision on what I say here. If you follow what

the nurse's and doctors say you will do great. They will teach you how to

get out of bed, until then have the nurses to show you how and help you. I

absolutely loved my nurses, they were so good to me, but I married one also.

lol Not as a result of my surgery though, that wouldn't be right. Right? Or

should I say that would be wrong. Right?

Anyway, good luck Patty A., Once you get past this you will say it's not

that bad. I will be praying for your quick recovery. And let me know ASAP

how your doing, I can give you some more advise from my experience if you

would like.

george

The dog has seldom been successful in pulling man up to its level of

sagacity, but man has frequently dragged the dog down to his. Thurber

________________________________

From: " NCGorgeous1963@... <mailto:NCGorgeous1963%40aol.com> "

<NCGorgeous1963@... <mailto:NCGorgeous1963%40aol.com> >

spinal problems

<mailto:spinal problems%40>

Sent: Monday, December 1, 2008 10:20:26 AM

Subject: Re: TLIF spinal fusion recovery

_loangoddess1961_ (mailto:loangoddess1961) writes: <<

Everything I do takes so long. Can anyone share their experiences with

recovery from this procedure?>>

Yes, please, someone share if they can - as I am having this procedure done

on my L5/S1 in 2 weeks from today!

Rhonda, how long were you in the hospital for the initial surgery? I just

left a voice mail for my surgeon to see if I can get an estimate because the

hospital is over an hr away from my home. I'm sorry you're having a bad

recovery

and hope you get to feeling better soon. What kind of post-op medications

have they given you? I've been on Flexeril, 3 x day for nearly 17 months so

if

they told me to just take another muscle relaxer I don't think it would have

any affect on me at all! You will certainly be in my thoughts and prayers.

Thanks in advance!

Best regards,

Patty A

------------ --------- -----

Above text © 2008 PEA. . Any copying, transcription or

redistribution outside this list without express written permission is not

permitted.

************ **Life should be easier. So should your homepage. Try the NEW

AOL.com..

(http://www.aol. com/?optin= new-dp & icid= aolcom40vanity & ncid=emlcntaolco

m00000002)

[Guest guest]

Yeah, Rehab taught me how to log roll that way, sure came in handy when I

finally got home. The nurses said I was lucky to get the trapeze mounted on my

bed. You see no one warned me about the upper body exercise/strengthening I

would be needing, I went into this blind, I didn't know of this group back then,

wished I did, they need to make it mandatory to join this group before surgery

lol so the veterans can help you through the transition.

 

george

 

The dog has seldom been successful in pulling man up to its level of sagacity,

but man has frequently dragged the dog down to his.. Thurber

________________________________

From: Rhonda <loangoddess1961@...>

" spinal problems "

<spinal problems >

Sent: Tuesday, December 2, 2008 10:25:27 AM

Subject: Re: TLIF spinal fusion recovery

I totally agree with the upper body strength needed post surgery. I had been

doing wts, chin ip assists, water exercise etc and had pretty good arm strength

prior to surgery. It takes every bit of it to get up out of bed the way they

teach you. I had no trapeze. I log roll to the side and push up with my arms.

Get in as good of a shape as possible before surgery.

Thanks!

Rhonda

On Dec 2, 2008, at 10:52 AM, Lambert <glambert28 (DOT) com> wrote:

I would like to offer a little bit of my experience with this type of procedure,

if ya'll don't mind, just remember I am not a doctor, and this is just my

opinion.

First the neuro group said I would be in the hospital from 3-5 days. I guess

that's the normal time given, (haha!) don't believe it, and don't get into a

hurry to get out either, because you have to be careful, I had a very

experienced nurse the first few nights post-opt, the first thing she said is if

you want to get through this, then listen to what I tell you, TAKE YOUR TIME!!!

you must be very careful, make the wrong move, and you could really get into a

lot of trouble. I don't know how to make it anymore clearer than that. I was in

for 11 days, but I was very determined to get out sooner, thanks to the doctors

and nursing staff, it didn't happen.

As far as pain control, I was on a pump for pain meds, and had break thru

orders, use them while you can, this is when I discovered lyrica, because my

legs ached really bad, and lyrica got me through that.

If you can start now to build up your arm strength, you will need to depend on

upper body strength. I had a bed with the trapeze over top, that will be your

friend. The main thing is to not twist at your waist.

I am reluctant to say to much of what I happened to others as a result of not

following orders, because of changing any-ones mind, if you need the surgery,

please don't make a decision on what I say here. If you follow what the nurse's

and doctors say you will do great.. They will teach you how to get out of bed,

until then have the nurses to show you how and help you. I absolutely loved my

nurses, they were so good to me, but I married one also. lol Not as a result of

my surgery though, that wouldn't be right. Right? Or should I say that would be

wrong. Right?

Anyway, good luck Patty A., Once you get past this you will say it's not that

bad. I will be praying for your quick recovery. And let me know ASAP how your

doing, I can give you some more advise from my experience if you would like.

george

The dog has seldom been successful in pulling man up to its level of sagacity,

but man has frequently dragged the dog down to his. Thurber

____________ _________ _________ __

From: " NCGorgeous1963@ aol.com " <NCGorgeous1963@ aol.com>

spinedisorderssuppo rtgroup@gro ups.com

Sent: Monday, December 1, 2008 10:20:26 AM

Subject: Re: TLIF spinal fusion recovery

_loangoddess1961_ (mailto:loangoddess 1961) writes: <<

Everything I do takes so long. Can anyone share their experiences with

recovery from this procedure?>>

Yes, please, someone share if they can - as I am having this procedure done

on my L5/S1 in 2 weeks from today!

Rhonda, how long were you in the hospital for the initial surgery? I just

left a voice mail for my surgeon to see if I can get an estimate because the

hospital is over an hr away from my home. I'm sorry you're having a bad recovery

and hope you get to feeling better soon. What kind of post-op medications

have they given you? I've been on Flexeril, 3 x day for nearly 17 months so if

they told me to just take another muscle relaxer I don't think it would have

any affect on me at all! You will certainly be in my thoughts and prayers.

Thanks in advance!

Best regards,

Patty A

------------ --------- -----

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redistribution outside this list without express written permission is not

permitted.

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[Guest guest]

Good news. I'm finally starting to feel a little better. I'm still careful not

to overdo it. I am pushing myself a little more each day. I am trying to exist

today with my 4 prong cane instead of the walker as an experiment. It is hard ok

my back to go up and down the steps with the walker and much easier with the

cane. I've started meditating again yesterday and this is helping my spirits.

Everyone says a positive attitude is key to recovery and I'm tired of feeling

depressed. What I hadn't mentioned before is that about a week ago I went

through a very painful time both physically and emotionally. And broke down on

the phone to my boyfriend in tears. Up to then he had gone above and beyond in

giving me the most loving care anyone could ask for. Our relationship up to then

had been excellent. In fact he had even remarked on that very recently. After my

tearful outburst he abruptly cut me out of his life. He battles depression and

anxiety himself and I

fear my tearful outburst put him over the edge.

At first I plunged into a deeper depression but have pulled myself pit of it

realizing that he must have deeper suffering than me. I now choose to give him

his space and send him love and light.

Have any if you had to deal with similar situations with loved ones as you go

through your medical problems? Any advice?

Thanks!

Rhonda

On Dec 2, 2008, at 10:52 AM, Lambert <glambert28@...> wrote:

I would like to offer a little bit of my experience with this type of procedure,

if ya'll don't mind, just remember I am not a doctor, and this is just my

opinion.

First the neuro group said I would be in the hospital from 3-5 days. I guess

that's the normal time given, (haha!) don't believe it, and don't get into a

hurry to get out either, because you have to be careful, I had a very

experienced nurse the first few nights post-opt, the first thing she said is if

you want to get through this, then listen to what I tell you, TAKE YOUR TIME!!!

you must be very careful, make the wrong move, and you could really get into a

lot of trouble. I don't know how to make it anymore clearer than that. I was in

for 11 days, but I was very determined to get out sooner, thanks to the doctors

and nursing staff, it didn't happen.

As far as pain control, I was on a pump for pain meds, and had break thru

orders, use them while you can, this is when I discovered lyrica, because my

legs ached really bad, and lyrica got me through that.

If you can start now to build up your arm strength, you will need to depend on

upper body strength. I had a bed with the trapeze over top, that will be your

friend. The main thing is to not twist at your waist.

I am reluctant to say to much of what I happened to others as a result of not

following orders, because of changing any-ones mind, if you need the surgery,

please don't make a decision on what I say here. If you follow what the nurse's

and doctors say you will do great. They will teach you how to get out of bed,

until then have the nurses to show you how and help you. I absolutely loved my

nurses, they were so good to me, but I married one also. lol Not as a result of

my surgery though, that wouldn't be right. Right? Or should I say that would be

wrong. Right?

Anyway, good luck Patty A., Once you get past this you will say it's not that

bad. I will be praying for your quick recovery. And let me know ASAP how your

doing, I can give you some more advise from my experience if you would like.

george

The dog has seldom been successful in pulling man up to its level of sagacity,

but man has frequently dragged the dog down to his. Thurber

________________________________

From: " NCGorgeous1963@... " <NCGorgeous1963@...>

spinal problems

Sent: Monday, December 1, 2008 10:20:26 AM

Subject: Re: TLIF spinal fusion recovery

_loangoddess1961_ (mailto:loangoddess1961) writes: <<

Everything I do takes so long. Can anyone share their experiences with

recovery from this procedure?>>

Yes, please, someone share if they can - as I am having this procedure done

on my L5/S1 in 2 weeks from today!

Rhonda, how long were you in the hospital for the initial surgery? I just

left a voice mail for my surgeon to see if I can get an estimate because the

hospital is over an hr away from my home. I'm sorry you're having a bad recovery

and hope you get to feeling better soon. What kind of post-op medications

have they given you? I've been on Flexeril, 3 x day for nearly 17 months so if

they told me to just take another muscle relaxer I don't think it would have

any affect on me at all! You will certainly be in my thoughts and prayers.

Thanks in advance!

Best regards,

Patty A

------------ --------- -----

Above text © 2008 PEA. . Any copying, transcription or

redistribution outside this list without express written permission is not

permitted.

************ **Life should be easier. So should your homepage. Try the NEW

AOL.com..

(http://www.aol. com/?optin= new-dp & icid= aolcom40vanity & ncid=emlcntaolco

m00000002)