I am so greatful I had my fusion done and can walk and do my martial arts at 57. I also have 2-hip, 1-Knee replacement. These surgeries keep us out of wheel chairs
Wow! That's amazing! I'm 58 and recently had a triple fusion with a new curve put in my back. Thank you for sharing your story as it has given me a lot of hope!
I just had a two stage spinal reconstruction surgery. They went in through the front to replace two fractured and disintegrating lumbar vertebraes with donor femur bone. Two days later, they went in from the back and fused me from T12 all the way down. That was two weeks ago. I'm in an enormous amount of pain right now but I'm determined to work hard to strengthen my body. I am now standing upright and am able to walk. I was bed and wheelchair bound before this. Thank you for this video. It has made me realize how much work I have to put into this life altering change.
I also had a fusion from T11 to my pelvis and I’m almost 2 years out. I still have pain but it is more muscular. The worst part is the immobility. It is still cumbersome to get dressed, get into bed and just bend over. It is much better than putting up with all the almost unbearable nerve pain,
I had them go through my abdomen also but they took care of my this in my lumbar area and I'm right there with you I was in a lot of pain my left leg and foot I could hardly move after the surgery I got scared and thought I was going to be like that forever this is the first surgery ever had and I had a neurosurgeon but I will tell you with the help of my nephew and my daughter taking care of me and my determination I am now walking on my own I still have to be careful going up and down steps my balance isn't completely very yet cuz I still have to hold onto things every once in awhile like I can't Carrie you know bags of groceries and stuffI also had this surgery done in October so I'm getting ready to go ahead and really get into doing major walking outside my house and then after I've got my tolerance up to that and I'm doing really good with that I'm going to start doing like some weights not picking anything up but you know with your arms and stuff like that cuz I don't want my back together the way it was it was so bad that if I stood for you know 5 minutes or 10 minutes tops my legs from my waist to my bottom of my toes would go completely numb and it would hurt and if I didn't sit down I was going to fall down so good luck to you and keep the attitude you have and be determined I can hear it in your voice and keep going you'll make it there just don't push yourself too hard cuz you don't want to hurt yourself but before you know it you'll be up and you'll be walking around good luck to you😊
Would you tell me in what hospital and who is your surgeon please? I looking for good surgeon to help me for fusion for lumbar spine l4 l5 S1 and my sacrum SI joints
Great video with VERY accurate information, at least as far as it relates to my situation. I have had five back surgeries, the last two were fusions. I'm fused from L3 to S1 (also have a double neck fusion and my right big toe is fused, not to mention 4 knee surgeries, 3 shoulder, and two ankle) and exercised a great deal before, even though I could barely walk. It made the recovery much better. I workout regularly 1) because I love it, and 2) because it's necessary. There is almost always something you can do. I had to have my second back fusion because of additional disc problems that should've been fused the first time that weren't. My last back fusion was in 2014, and it's going very well. I still have pain and discomfort at times, it's just how it is after you start having back problems, but I still workout, still play some sports, hike, mountain bike, ride motorcycles and more. Back fusion is far better than the low quality of life I was living before the fusions.
This makes a lot of sense. I have a Zoom call with my surgeon from UC San Francisco tomorrow regarding a lumbar fusion. Thank you for your time, information, and ongoing work.
Thank you very much for this very educational, very clear, very practical, and very hepful video. I highly appreciate your very "excellent professionalism" in explaining your timely relevant subjects. GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS!
I’m 6 weeks past my double fusion and laminectomy’s. You are obviously anti surgery and I have clearance to do light gym workouts with my back supported and so far my pain and numbness has decreased by about 60% and should continue to get better as the nerves heal. I would have been constantly tortured with pain masking shots and never ending pain and therapy. I also completely stopped prescriptions after 10 days.
I did lumbar fusion about 10 months ago. Although I'm much better than before my surgery, after cycling (mountain bike) I feel my back really bad. I can assure, lumbar fusion should be avoid if possible. After the surgery, my performance as an amatuer cyclist never more has been the same!!
Or...you can have the surgery, especially if you truly need it, and simply follow their guidelines. Recumbent cycling is allowed, but definitely not any other kind of cycling.
I still have horrible pain and spasms,,,better in the afternoon than mornings. I am sixty six…husband disabled, I push mow, walk, pick up limbs etc. My doctor said I would be in a wheelchair without surgery, and would still have pain. I am conflicted if ai did the right thing. I still have chronic pain.
Im 3 weeks in my bones where incapsulating my nerves and i was in losing feeling they cut my bone out and fused one level this scares me as im a mountain biker too i dont think i can do any hard trails anymore but what about just cycling ?
Hola, acabo de ver tu video y tienes toda la razón, hablando de mi caso, yo he sido operado de una Laminectomía y Artrodesis de L4-S1, anteriormente a la operación estuve haciendo una tabla de ejercicios que me proporciono mii cirujano. La operación a sido un éxito , y todos los síntomas que padecía desaparecieron, hace dos meses que me operaron y aun estoy con pequeñas molestias pero he de decir que el hospital coincidí con otras personas a las que le hicieron el mismo tipo de operación. En comparación yo me he recuperado mucho mas rápido, las dos primeras semanas fueron duras con mucho dolor...pero eso se pasa y a día de hoy ando todos los días con mis perros por la mañana y por la tarde, entre los dos recorridos serán 10 km, eso sí, me ayudo de bastones y mis caminatas son de Marcha Nórdica. Bueno espero que mi comentario le sirva a alguien que este esperando este tipo de operación . Un saludo desde Alicante, España😘
I've had several spinal fusions and find the advice in this video to be excellent. It is exactly what is recommended. Having a strong core with pre hab is an excellent way to speed up your recovery and even prevent adjacent segment syndrome. If you cannot hold a solid plank for 2-3 minutes, then work on it!
People who cancel their surgery amaze me; unbelievable. It was two weeks for me to get passed up the treatment chain from a CNP to his attendee... From there it was qbout two months total to get my Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion. Dr. Virojanaoa does 3 or 4 a week and is booked up one month in advance. I'm older so the choice was lay around for 10 years +- or get help. Dr. Virojanapa saved my quality of life! Thank God for Dr. Virojanapa! I think individuals who cancel a scheduled procedure never needed it; maby they have a high tolerance for pain; who knows. It's extremely difficult to jump through the hoops to get it when one can't drive, etc. 3 or 4 a week at qbout $155,000.00 each; one of 8 neurosurgeons on staff...
Thank you for this comment. I'm glad to hear that you improved. Please make sure you talk to your doctor. I do not give individual medical advice via website or email. Have you seen my website already? Check it out www.doctorandreafurlan.com
I had a seizure while driving on the freeway, crashed into a giant pole on the passenger side going 80mph, where my sons mom was sitting. She broke her spine, tibia & fibula, her wrist, and her ankle, as well as rupturing both intestines and I walked away from the accident without a scratch. I wish it could have been me. She can’t run or hike or jump and she was a very active person it’s made her so depressed and I can’t help but hate myself for it because it’s my fault. I wish there was a way to make life normal for people who’ve been through these injuries
I can see how you would feel the way that you do but you have to remember that it's not your fault and I doubt that she blames you please get some help in dealing with this cuz if not it's going to eat you alive I don't know if you've talked to her and you guys have talked about it you know I have no idea what the situation is but try to talk to her talk it out even if both of you need to go to somebody to talk together but if you can please quit blaming yourself this was not your fault it's something you cannot control as a nurse I've seen this happen and believe me it's not your fault take care of yourself the best you can and help her take care of herself if she will let you also😊
Thank you so much! The surgeon didn’t talk to me about what I could do after this surgery or the spinal decompression surgery that followed. You don’t have a video on that do you? 😊
I had this done today L5-S1 for a bad herniated disc…It went very well. It is amazing for my sciatica pain. I have no more pain or cramps or any sciatic pains down the leg. I had those awfull pain for 5 months now, injection, physio, Chiro didn’t help. I wasn’t able to sit anymore and walking was very difficult and Painfull and on Dilodid pills multiple times a day. Surgery didn’t take long, under two hours without any complications. I am so gratfull. I can walk now short distances and stand up/down by myself hours after the surgery. I know that pain killers will go in a fews days/week but I’m very confident that it will be a win. Only now… not feeling down the extremely bad cramps and pain down my leg is worth it. We’ll see how it goes from here but i had no other option, when pain is unbearable… you can’t live like. Take care alls!
My situation was similar. I am 6 weeks post op now. My sciatica went away for the first week but it came back in various spots. I'm told it's just the nerve going through the healing process. Do you have any numbness or tingling at all or are you still completely sciatica free?
Same here folks! After months of excruciating sciatic and right hip pain and incorrect diagnosis ie Bursitis, Arthritis etc.. my Orthopaedic Specialist confirmed L5-S1 spinal fusion surgery was needed. So it’s been 2 months since my first operation from the back and one week later from the front (ouch) a total of two weeks in hospital, gladly came home a few days before Christmas with plenty of family support and medications.. happy to say I’m now walking without looking like I’m drunk (unless I am 😂) and walk, walk, walk as much as I can. At first walking was tedious and tiring but HANG IN THERE and walk in 10-15 minute sessions x 3 times a day and start building up to 20-30 minutes or listen to your body who will tell you! Putting on socks still a challenge but slowly improving. Any slight pain or niggle is a worry but I understand normal during the healing process. THANK YOU DOCTOR FOR THIS POST. I’m praying that my steady improvement continues so I can get back to “normal” and back on my E-bike rides with my son that I miss SO much. I have to keep remembering the “B-L-T” mantra, no not Bacon Lettuce and Tomato but Bending, Lifting and Twisting! And of course that I’m not 27 but 72 of course!! I hope this helps others. Sending love from sunny Sydney Australia 🇦🇺 ❤
I had always been in pretty good shape and had been working out and hiking regularly. After the last episode Sept.20, 2023 where I couldn’t walk or hardly move I had to do the steroid pills, and then the epidural and 16 weeks of therapy. Then back to the gym lifting much less but using a lot of resistance, and I walk 2-4 miles a day. I went from 5’8” 202lb to 168lbs and my 2 level fusion is in 3 days. I can’t wait to get back to the gym afterwards.
I workout and lift over 275 pounds now I have had a level 3 lumbar fusion I get pain in hip now for compensating the spine but the bdt thing I ever did was get back to building my core otherwise I was couch bound. Move get up do anything. Wilkyout
@@DrAndreaFurlan Hello madam Am 44 yrs Am suffering from canal stenosis and doctors have told me for a lumbar spinal fusion Have u seen patient s after such surgery Am worried so asking
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Best thing a person can do prior to having this surgery if over weight is to get yourself as healthy as possible. Many time weight gain is the primary cause of the pain. Do not think surgery is your only option. That is your last option. Many times if you have this surgery you will continue to have this again..
You suggested that I exercize BEFORE lumbar fusion, but that was impossible due to pain. I just had anterior L4-5 fusion and posterior pedicle screw fixation almost two weeks ago, and I want to do the right things so I can get my life back. Thanks for this video.
Dr Andrea thank you so much for such informative content you put out on YT. Could you please share some info about post hysterectomy strength building exercises to avoid prolapse etc. Also any preparatory exercises prior to the surgery. Thank you so much.
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This is preposterous. I for one, was bed bound for 2 years prior to a Spinal Fusion of L2, 3 & 4. If I was CAPABLE of doing "Prehab", I would NOT be a candidate for a fusion! The fusion was carried out by my surgeon AS A NECESSITY to walking! Wow, gobsmacked at the ignorance.
I agree with you. I have L5-S1 Fusion and no way I can exercise intensively! I can’t stretch properly without causing pain. It’s true however that we have to move but not intensively. It’s absurd
Love your content doctor. Recently I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid arthritis and I stumbled upon your channel and started following your videos. Do you have any videos for fulll body work out for ra? Love from India.
Unfortunately, I was one who had to have a fusion. I also had a laminectomy and microdiscectomy at the same time. Everything was L4-S1. This was a result of me breaking my back as a kid. It never healed right because I never told anybody I fell. Over the years, I developed a slipped vertebrae. Back pain sucks. Pain, in general, sucks. I also have arthritis and degenerative disc disease. I’m only in my 40’s.
I have had a similar experience. I am a 49 year old woman and my back issues started about 12-13 years ago. it has progressively gotten worse. I had a laminectomy in 2019 and 3 weeks ago nhad to have a L4L5 fusion. my concearn is that i will have trouble now with my s1 as well as L3 my laminectomy went ok but never really resolved my issue. severe sciatica pain down both legs and my L4 slipped over my L5. I hate when people say to go exersize,as most people have no clue the pain we are in. I will never return to normal activity. this is not only painful but it is cause for my deep depression and anxiety!! I cant walk too much as it burns my lower back. sitting can also bring on tremendous pain and my feet go numb. laying down is also sometimes difficult and I dont sleep very well. I live for my heating pad and ice however i prefer my heating pad as ice makes me feel stiff. I am unable to return to the work I have done most of my life so financially I feel ruined!!! I am petrified of what my future looks like.
Thank you for watching the video and writing this comment. Please share this video with your friends. I have lots of videos about chronic pain on my channel ua-cam.com/users/DrAndreaFurlan And don't forget to turn on the notifications 🔔 And please remember, I do not give individual medical advice via social media or email.
Thank you for taking the time to write this comment. I don't have the ability to give medical advice here because I am not able to get all the details that I need and most importantly, to examine you. I don't give individual medical advice via social media or by email. This channel is for educational purposes only. Please talk to your doctor.
Thank you for this! I’m 14 and I just had my lumbar fusion spine surgery from my neck to lower back and everything is swollen. Also I feel my stomach stretching since I am a dancer and I had to quit and my bowels are not moving like they should. I want to begin working out as soon as possible but I didn’t know where to start. 🤷🏽♀️
I’m currently making arrangements to have my batteries replaced in my implanted automatic tensing machine. My controller did warn me that the batteries were in a low charged status. But there was a communication issue at the Doctors office, that went one for months. Thus the batteries are 100% dead at this point. My current referral is for a heart specialist, I’m guessing that since he replaces pacemaker batteries that he is my next option. Abbott Lab’s are the technicians and the stimulator is sponsored by St. Jude’s Hospital, yes the same organization that Danny Thomas the actor spent a lifetime supporting.
Thank you for your useful Infos! My question is about non-fusion, failed back surgery. I am not overweight, never was, I eat healthy and did moderate exercises all my live, and I am walking a lot, before and after lumbar spinal fusion surgery. But I never fused! I had Revision surgery 2 years ago, because of loose screws, and still not fully fused. Besides, I have osteoporosis without bones ever broken. Would you still advise me to exersise very hard every day? My muscles in the back are very tight most of the time.
Actually weight bearing exercises have been proven to help increase muscle density in those with osteoporosis. So yes, exercise is very good for you if you have osteoporosis. In the future if you have another fusion, make sure that your surgeon gives you a bone stimulator. It has a 93% fusion rate. I'm using it now for those fusion since in my first surgery didn't fuse way back when. I feel much better because I did prehab before my extensive 8 level fusion. It's my 11th back surgery and i never thought I'd feel this good after surgery! Not easy but it's the easiest recovery so far, all due to mainly cuz i did prehab before surgery.
HI Sonja, any updates on your back recovery? Your story sounds a lot like mine. Can you tell me what your symptoms were after fusion where they said you didn't have enough bone growth or fusion? I have pain when I lean forward or carry anything heavier than a gallon of milk. I don't drink am not over weight, eat super healthy and walk about 3 miles a day on a small mountain. I am about to have revision of a fusion that did not fuse in 2020. Mine is at L4/L5. Any information you can provide would be great and I hope they figure it out for you. I just bought an inexpensive hot tub and it seems to help my tight muscles knees and ankles and release my muscle tightness but it has not helped the fusion so going for the revision in April. Thanks and good luck.
I am a 58 y.o. woman with Osteopenia. I too have non-union or a non fusion. I had a revision surgery after a 2 level (L4 thru S1) not fusing 2 years post op. Almost 1.5 years after revision , the radiologists believed as well as pain management Doc (surgeon was on the fence and wasn't sure) I was fused. Because of the horrible pain I was still in, I was convinced it was the hardware causing the pain and pushed to have it removed. The surgeon (probably against his better judgment) removed it only to find I only fused at L5/s1. He performed at that time another fusion without instrumentation because I begged him not to put more hardware in me. So, here I am 7 weeks post op hardware removal/re-fusion without instrumentation and I still am in hell. I believe my osteopenia is the reason I am unable to fully fuse. I wish I had been screened for osteopenia/osteoporosis prior.
Avoid rush for surgery ,I have back issues for 20 year bulge disc in Multilevel degeneration disc I do see specialist many of them but no one rush me to surgery 67 still no surgery I do have pain lower back legs but I manage with painkiller walk exercise few cortisone injections No severe for surgery specialist said Your American people at young age rush for surgery make your self worse In australia spinal surgery hesitated operate to quick We got Medicare no private insurance I’m glad I don’t have one , private surgeon on insurance to make money operate people even when it’s not necessary
Exactly. Every time I went for a walk or lifted even four pounds, it gave me debilitating back pain and compressed my nerve, flaring up tingling and numbness in my leg and foot, and dangerous “foot drop”.
Thank you for taking the time to write this comment. I don't have the ability to give medical advice here because I am not able to get all the details that I need and most importantly, to examine you. I don't give individual medical advice via social media or by email. This channel is for educational purposes only. Please talk to your doctor. Have you seen my website yet? Check it out www.doctorandreafurlan.com
Hi doctor, why would you say that after lumbar fusion the rest of the vertebrae needs to work extra hard. The fusion already made it more stability for the spine so it is also doing its part to support the whole column same as the rest of the upper vertebrae. Thank you
Hi Robert, the spine is made up of many vertebras and they need to articulate with each other to allow smooth movement of bending and rotating. When one segment is fused, the one above and the one below must compensate for the lack of movement of the fused level, so they work extra hard.
I have had Lumber Fusion surgery in my lower back. I started exercising (keeping the lower back immobile or isolated) and continuing to look after my diet. This ended in me loosing weight further. The problem is that my posture has become bent over the front from my hip. Not my shoulders , but my hip. Can you or anyone suggest what workout should I do yo correct this, as it makes me look 10 years older than what I am.
Thank you for watching the video and writing this comment. Please talk to your physiotherapist, as they will be able to help you with an individual program. Consider subscribing to my channel. I post videos once a week about a variety of topics on chronic pain.
I am eight years out of spinal fusion . I worked hard,.walked exercised. Now I am in horrible pain and feel like my back is way worse, plus my spine feels like there is unusual movement. I am going to have a . I continue to walk and keep active. I am sixty six years. I have stood on my feet since I was sixteen with jobs.m
@@nicolaschamorro4437 Avoid rush for surgery in future I have back issues for 20 year bulge disc in Multilevel degeneration disc I do see specialist many of them but no one rush me to surgery 67 still no surgery I do have pain lower back legs but I manage with painkiller walk exercise few cortisone injections No severe for surgery specialist said Your American people at young age rush for surgery make your self worse In australia spinal surgery hesitated operate to quick We got Medicare no private insurance I’m glad I don’t have one , private surgeon on insurance to make money operate people even when it’s not necessary
Excellent video on lumbar fusion surgery exercises ...yes there are many surgeries done in my hospital immediate postoperative rehab used to give in bedside at 7 to 10 days with spinal orthosis support made them walk ..encourage them walking ...but iam in acute care setup so never seen after 6 mths follow up ...very hard to know you had undergone fusion ....yes aerobics and core exs are good " prehab " as evidence need to go through the article if you send link ....dr andrea fine
I'm 40 and in perfect health with a strong core and shredded muscles. I have a disc protrusion that is pressing my L5 nerve root. My right leg is completely jacked up. I can walk long distances but standing in one place is impossible. It burns my entire leg. My protrusion won't heal because the nuclei pulposa is stuck in the annulus. The buldge is there to stay. It's been 6 months. I have grade one spondy so a discectomy isn't an option. Fusion is really the only option to remove the disc and get it off my nerve. You can't exercise my problem away. Believe me, I've tried. I'm an athletic freak. What would you suggest?
I’m looking at the TOPS device instead of fusion. I get sciatica in both legs and I’m very active. Exercise kept it at bay for 6 years, but it’s time. The TOPS device still gives you spine movement and is a faster recovery time. It’s for spondy. Good luck.
Bonjour quel hasard je dois décider si je me fais opérer ou essayer des exercices .Quels spécialistes Devrais-je consulter pour les exercices j'ai 70 ans .Merci pour vos vidéos
I am to have another fusion next month Feb 20,2023. I keep reading it's just going to cause me to have more later. I have L5-S1 done with cage and screws/bars. Now L4 is slipped, have spinal stenosis causing foot/toe numbness hip/leg pain and can't stand long. MY QUESTION IS: is surgery my only answer? Can't this be taken care of another way? I've been in much pain for 2 years now getting by with pain pills 2x a day.(Diclofenac) Please help me make a decision what way is the best. Thanks so much been watching many videos.
Thank you for taking the time to write this comment. I don't have the ability to give medical advice here because I am not able to get all the details that I need and most importantly, to examine you. I don't give individual medical advice via social media or by email. This channel is for educational purposes only. Please talk to your doctor. Have you seen my website yet? Check it out www.doctorandreafurlan.com
Hello how surgery went? How do you feel now ? I'm suffering from a lumber subluxation and a chronic Lower back pain would you suggest fusion for my problem?
Im going thru the exact same thing you are im 7 years post L5 S1Last MRI showed not only another bad disc right above the fusion but they are now saying i have worn out arthritic facet joints so ive been suffering 1.5 years im 62 im figuring my chances of surviving another surgery are getting less and i just dont think i can go thru it again OH and ive completely lost all trust in the medical field since covid
its all good til it fails, then you got metal impinging your nerves crippling you burning and you will wish you died, dont forget being labeled a drug addict for looking for relief, even with the scars and MRI's to prove.
03:14 . If a person got overweight and out of shape after recovering from spine fusion . Is it too late to try to get back to shape as you suggest or has damage been after a couple years from the recovering time ?
I dont think you are supposed to pull on your spine after you have had it fused. I got rid of my inversion table after my first fusion but i will hang from my chin-up bar every couple days but it hurts in a good way
I had a double lumbar fusion and they damaged my L5 nerve root so I have numbness in my right toes and on the front half of my bottom foot. It is painful and I don’t know what to do. I have a second surgeon neurologist appointment the first week of January. My pain management doctor is working with me but it is not good. Does anyone have the symptoms I do and what helps you. I am at the end of my rope and can’t live like this much longer. Please any suggestions would be so appreciated. Thank you
I had L5-S1 fused and did good for 10 years. I now have the foot/toes numbness hip/leg pain. It's caused by nerve pinch or damaged and having another fusion fen 20th. I think the one way of fixing it is to unpinch or burn it. Maybe look up burning nerve roots. I hope you get it fixed. This dr doesn't seem to answer anyone's questions so you can get some directions into what to look for or watch. I'm afraid I'm might have to keep doing surgery if I do this again. I almost want to cancel and don't know what to do. Good luck.
I had neuropathy due to nerve damage with spinal stenosis I endured 16 months I endured before fusion surgery in November. I am 12wks post surgery today and have numbness worse below my knees and my feet are numb...I too don't know what to do ..my surgeon will see me Feb 15th . Let me know if you get better !
Im going on 7 years L5 S1 ive got the burning stabbing numbness, feels like a bug crawling up your leg. I'll just put up with it rather than have another surgery @@darlenelivergood5518
My mum had an surgery last year around aug.. She is still recovering.. But sometimes while standing or walking for a long time.. Her right leg foot usually has a swelling. Can it be cured quickly?
Thank you for taking the time to write this comment. I don't have the ability to give medical advice here because I am not able to get all the details that I need and most importantly, to examine you. I don't give individual medical advice via social media or by email. This channel is for educational purposes only. Please talk to your doctor. Have you seen my website yet? Check it out www.doctorandreafurlan.com
Ha Ha Can it be cured quickly. My neurosurgeon's nurse would just prescribe me methylprednisolone it would help my foot for a couple weeks then it started hurting again, said they could't do anything else for me unless i wanted a spinal stimulater installed
6 weeks ago I had spinal lumbar fusion. 5 lower disks. I am afraid of what exercise to start with what would you recommend I start with. I walk it’s about all I do and have taken on work at home again. I am so fearful of hurting myself as I do not want to face another surgery.😢
I used to love exercising before the surgery and I had to stop due to pain and having to use a walker and mobility aids . It has been 7 months since my surgery and whenever I try exercising my pain flares up which is leaving me very frustrated and unable to continue. What is your advice for people that want to keep healthy and start exercising but it causes lots of pain when they do? I walk every day and pace myself best I can.
Avoid rush for surgery in future I have back issues for 20 year bulge disc in Multilevel degeneration disc I do see specialist many of them but no one rush me to surgery 67 still no surgery I do have pain lower back legs but I manage with painkiller walk exercise few cortisone injections No severe for surgery specialist said Your American people at young age rush for surgery make your self worse In australia spinal surgery hesitated operate to quick We got Medicare no private insurance I’m glad I don’t have one , private surgeon on insurance to make money operate people even when it’s not necessary
Lmao this is such bullshit. Prehab! Lmao I trained daily, I’m a trainer. This video is so discouraging to people who really need this surgery and it’s fear mongering.
This is absolute madness, why the hell would you need it locked in place. Na my mum is not is millions years having this dam operation. She will never be able to sit down on the toilet let alone get out of bed. This is madness. Nope!!!!!
What a waste of time watching this video. If a person could do all the exercising you are proposing with the pain they are experiencing, then you would not have needed the surgery - at least I would not have needed my surgery. I first had a lumbar laminotomy, but after the surgery, my L2 and L3 vertebrae collapsed on one another, so a spinal fusion was necessary. I had both spinal stenosis and scoliosis in my spine, which was worst at the location of the L2 and L3. vertebrae. I assume spinal fusion is not done on Canadians because of the limited health care provided by Canada’s health care system.
Biased opinion from someone who starts with a video admitting that she doesn't treat many spinal fusions. Spinal fusions are from the United States. She has strong opinions for someone who works in a limited intervention healthcare system. She doesn't have access to more advanced interventions and experience in diagnosing and treating… With advanced interventions. Instead just declares exercise to everyone even when the structure has failed. Exercise/physical therapy is great, but when the structure has failed it's time to repair/replace the structure. Though her healthcare system won't let her do proper diagnosing and interventions so she sits back and declares her lack of interventions as superior. Truly sad that this person will never experience a myriad of interventions and outcomes. Just keep prescribing exercise when you can't do anything.
I welcome comments that disagree with me in a respectful manner. I'm sorry, but I disagree with you. I think there are way too many back surgeries in the US. I'm not saying that some patients need surgery, but in the US there are too many people operated without doing a good and extensive exercise program PRIOR TO SURGERY. If they had done exercises before, they would not need surgery. Then, after the operation, the surgeon tells them that if they don't stick to a regular, extensive and good program of exercises they will not get better. So, what is the point? I would prefer to try exercises before surgery than after. Back pain is mostly caused by myofascial pain, which is muscle pain. Muscles don't like surgery, they like exercises. But patients don't want to spend time doing exercises, they want a quick fix.
@@DrAndreaFurlanI agree with you Dr I noted many young people rush. For surgery in USA for the fact that they have access to insurance cover and ruining them self more and make surgeon more reach no understanding surgeon want to make money operate even when not necessary I got chronic back issue 20 more years and surgeon still not will to operate on me said I will be worse I’m not insisting if I have to be worse I manage with Physio medication walking exercise in the pool doing cortisone once in a while In australia govt want surgeon to operate on back only if it’s really necessary and after others method have failed
Thank you for watching the video and writing this comment. Please share this video with your friends. I have lots of videos about chronic pain on my channel ua-cam.com/users/DrAndreaFurlan And don't forget to turn on the notifications 🔔 And please remember, I do not give individual medical advice via social media or email.
The surgeons in Canada do spinal fusion, but only for people who have neurological deficits that could progress to a neurological damage. If the person has only chronic low-back pain without neurological deficits, it will be really hard to get surgery.
I don't believe that lumbar fusion happens most in the U.S. Because there is just way too many older women around here in Canada too with mobility problems. Because some women patients in Canada are being treated different than men are only because they are stay at home mothers which some male born in Canada physicians and some female physicians too from more priviledged backgrounds with 1 or 2 children in day care who believe we stay at home moms are all leading a sedentary life. For example: When I was only in my late 20's after an X-ray was done on my spine a specialist physician who was born in another nation told my lumbar fusion was beginning to happen to me which he said was the norm at the time for women who are mothers to small children. While suffering from intense pain in the lumber region for awhile and with loss of neural function too I went to see a family doctor about it. He only got me to stand on his examining table with very little on only to tell me that I was young enough to avoid having to undergo surgery. While I was up until being thrown off of my bicycle once in a collision with the cyclist in front of me who had stopped suddenly often swimming, canoing, biking, hiking and for example once swinging from a T bar sliding along a long steel cable in the woods during scout camp. I once after being a leader in that cub camp during a family outing remember having to carry my daughter down a steep incline after being told by her father that she was fine trying to do that on her own which I had disagreed was true. I continued getting lots of various forms of exercise. With an undiagnosed chronic lung condition only mild at first too. Like in my 60's for 3 years while working for S.T.A.R.S. walking 3 hours per day 6 days per week for months in up to minus 20 degrees. After being in a roll over car accident now 3 years later I have 2 spots in my spine in which fusion has already taken place thanks to how Canadian women who marry young are being regarded my a lot of people.
So sorry to hear this. If you can come to US state of Pennsylvania, State College, Dr Bailey he is the best. I have him for mt surgeon. Best on the East Coast.
I'm sorry that is happening to you but unfortunately in this world even in the United States women are poo-pooed all the time about their pain we do not get the health care that men get you're absolutely right the way that men look at our healthcare as being not as painful as there's and it's a proven fact that women of color get even worse healthcare than we do they also take and don't give them the pain medicine that they need whereas they will women that are white they'll give them more pain medicine than they will of a person that's a woman that's of color it's unfortunate even your right with female doctors I actually was a nurse here in the United States for over 20 years where I live and I met very many doctors especially from other countries that even looked down on us women as nurses I mean I don't know what the whole thing is but I'm very sorry that you are in the pain that you're in because I definitely just had a fusion myself and I had to be put on disability due to so much pain the hospital admitted me and they did all the paperwork cuz I didn't want to go on disability I made more money working but no I I get the pain that you're feeling and now that we have so many problems here in the United States with the whole pain med problem you're very lucky we are in the United States I don't know about up there if we even get pain pills from pain Management I wish there was something I could tell you to do I could do for you to make it to where you are and then just so much pain but please take care of yourself😊
And people forget the hardest job in the world is taking care of your kids being at home I did both I was a single parent and then when she was old enough I went back to school also so no you did a great job by staying home and taking care of your kids which is great for them and I know you enjoyed to so kudos to you and don't let those stupid doctor's getting your head😊
I am so greatful I had my fusion done and can walk and do my martial arts at 57. I also have 2-hip, 1-Knee replacement. These surgeries keep us out of wheel chairs
Wow! That's amazing! I'm 58 and recently had a triple fusion with a new curve put in my back. Thank you for sharing your story as it has given me a lot of hope!
I just had a two stage spinal reconstruction surgery. They went in through the front to replace two fractured and disintegrating lumbar vertebraes with donor femur bone. Two days later, they went in from the back and fused me from T12 all the way down. That was two weeks ago. I'm in an enormous amount of pain right now but I'm determined to work hard to strengthen my body. I am now standing upright and am able to walk. I was bed and wheelchair bound before this. Thank you for this video. It has made me realize how much work I have to put into this life altering change.
I had the same but my pain from the surgery isn't bad. I was on oxy meds but I stopped taking them because they made me feel sleepy all the time.
I also had a fusion from T11 to my pelvis and I’m almost 2 years out. I still have pain but it is more muscular. The worst part is the immobility. It is still cumbersome to get dressed, get into bed and just bend over. It is much better than putting up with all the almost unbearable nerve pain,
I had them go through my abdomen also but they took care of my this in my lumbar area and I'm right there with you I was in a lot of pain my left leg and foot I could hardly move after the surgery I got scared and thought I was going to be like that forever this is the first surgery ever had and I had a neurosurgeon but I will tell you with the help of my nephew and my daughter taking care of me and my determination I am now walking on my own I still have to be careful going up and down steps my balance isn't completely very yet cuz I still have to hold onto things every once in awhile like I can't Carrie you know bags of groceries and stuffI also had this surgery done in October so I'm getting ready to go ahead and really get into doing major walking outside my house and then after I've got my tolerance up to that and I'm doing really good with that I'm going to start doing like some weights not picking anything up but you know with your arms and stuff like that cuz I don't want my back together the way it was it was so bad that if I stood for you know 5 minutes or 10 minutes tops my legs from my waist to my bottom of my toes would go completely numb and it would hurt and if I didn't sit down I was going to fall down so good luck to you and keep the attitude you have and be determined I can hear it in your voice and keep going you'll make it there just don't push yourself too hard cuz you don't want to hurt yourself but before you know it you'll be up and you'll be walking around good luck to you😊
Jesus Christ man. Stay positive. You got this
Would you tell me in what hospital and who is your surgeon please? I looking for good surgeon to help me for fusion for lumbar spine l4 l5 S1 and my sacrum SI joints
Great video with VERY accurate information, at least as far as it relates to my situation. I have had five back surgeries, the last two were fusions. I'm fused from L3 to S1 (also have a double neck fusion and my right big toe is fused, not to mention 4 knee surgeries, 3 shoulder, and two ankle) and exercised a great deal before, even though I could barely walk. It made the recovery much better. I workout regularly 1) because I love it, and 2) because it's necessary. There is almost always something you can do. I had to have my second back fusion because of additional disc problems that should've been fused the first time that weren't. My last back fusion was in 2014, and it's going very well. I still have pain and discomfort at times, it's just how it is after you start having back problems, but I still workout, still play some sports, hike, mountain bike, ride motorcycles and more. Back fusion is far better than the low quality of life I was living before the fusions.
This makes a lot of sense. I have a Zoom call with my surgeon from UC San Francisco tomorrow regarding a lumbar fusion. Thank you for your time, information, and ongoing work.
i hope you went to a chiropractor as well for a second opinion...
Yes among many other types of consults. The decision is one I don't take lightly. @SrFulanoTal
So educational. I’ve had the surgery & was not told what I could do after 6 months❤
Be careful
Thank you very much for this very educational, very clear, very practical,
and very hepful video. I highly appreciate your very "excellent professionalism"
in explaining your timely relevant subjects.
GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS!
I’m 6 weeks past my double fusion and laminectomy’s. You are obviously anti surgery and I have clearance to do light gym workouts with my back supported and so far my pain and numbness has decreased by about 60% and should continue to get better as the nerves heal. I would have been constantly tortured with pain masking shots and never ending pain and therapy. I also completely stopped prescriptions after 10 days.
Wow! I need the same, 2-5 with lamenectomy and also a cyst. I'm terrified but have no choice. How are you doing now?
I love this women when i am hearing her talking i feel so relaxed ❤️
I feel sleeping
I did lumbar fusion about 10 months ago. Although I'm much better than before my surgery, after cycling (mountain bike) I feel my back really bad. I can assure, lumbar fusion should be avoid if possible. After the surgery, my performance as an amatuer cyclist never more has been the same!!
I also regret the surgery 😭
Or...you can have the surgery, especially if you truly need it, and simply follow their guidelines. Recumbent cycling is allowed, but definitely not any other kind of cycling.
I still have horrible pain and spasms,,,better in the afternoon than mornings. I am sixty six…husband disabled, I push mow, walk, pick up limbs etc. My doctor said I would be in a wheelchair without surgery, and would still have pain. I am conflicted if ai did the right thing. I still have chronic pain.
Im 3 weeks in my bones where incapsulating my nerves and i was in losing feeling they cut my bone out and fused one level this scares me as im a mountain biker too i dont think i can do any hard trails anymore but what about just cycling ?
How are you feeling now?
Hola, acabo de ver tu video y tienes toda la razón, hablando de mi caso, yo he sido operado de una Laminectomía y Artrodesis de L4-S1, anteriormente a la operación estuve haciendo una tabla de ejercicios que me proporciono mii cirujano. La operación a sido un éxito , y todos los síntomas que padecía desaparecieron, hace dos meses que me operaron y aun estoy con pequeñas molestias pero he de decir que el hospital coincidí con otras personas a las que le hicieron el mismo tipo de operación. En comparación yo me he recuperado mucho mas rápido, las dos primeras semanas fueron duras con mucho dolor...pero eso se pasa y a día de hoy ando todos los días con mis perros por la mañana y por la tarde, entre los dos recorridos serán 10 km, eso sí, me ayudo de bastones y mis caminatas son de Marcha Nórdica.
Bueno espero que mi comentario le sirva a alguien que este esperando este tipo de operación .
Un saludo desde Alicante, España😘
I've had several spinal fusions and find the advice in this video to be excellent. It is exactly what is recommended. Having a strong core with pre hab is an excellent way to speed up your recovery and even prevent adjacent segment syndrome. If you cannot hold a solid plank for 2-3 minutes, then work on it!
Can you bend you back after fusion please advice as I’m hesitate of have mine done TY
People who cancel their surgery amaze me; unbelievable. It was two weeks for me to get passed up the treatment chain from a CNP to his attendee... From there it was qbout two months total to get my Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion. Dr. Virojanaoa does 3 or 4 a week and is booked up one month in advance. I'm older so the choice was lay around for 10 years +- or get help. Dr. Virojanapa saved my quality of life! Thank God for Dr. Virojanapa! I think individuals who cancel a scheduled procedure never needed it; maby they have a high tolerance for pain; who knows. It's extremely difficult to jump through the hoops to get it when one can't drive, etc. 3 or 4 a week at qbout $155,000.00 each; one of 8 neurosurgeons on staff...
Glad I did physical therapy / exercise prior to my lumbar surgery!!!! ❤
Thank you for this comment. I'm glad to hear that you improved. Please make sure you talk to your doctor. I do not give individual medical advice via website or email. Have you seen my website already? Check it out www.doctorandreafurlan.com
I had a seizure while driving on the freeway, crashed into a giant pole on the passenger side going 80mph, where my sons mom was sitting. She broke her spine, tibia & fibula, her wrist, and her ankle, as well as rupturing both intestines and I walked away from the accident without a scratch. I wish it could have been me. She can’t run or hike or jump and she was a very active person it’s made her so depressed and I can’t help but hate myself for it because it’s my fault. I wish there was a way to make life normal for people who’ve been through these injuries
I can see how you would feel the way that you do but you have to remember that it's not your fault and I doubt that she blames you please get some help in dealing with this cuz if not it's going to eat you alive I don't know if you've talked to her and you guys have talked about it you know I have no idea what the situation is but try to talk to her talk it out even if both of you need to go to somebody to talk together but if you can please quit blaming yourself this was not your fault it's something you cannot control as a nurse I've seen this happen and believe me it's not your fault take care of yourself the best you can and help her take care of herself if she will let you also😊
Thank you so much! The surgeon didn’t talk to me about what I could do after this surgery or the spinal decompression surgery that followed. You don’t have a video on that do you? 😊
I had this done today L5-S1 for a bad herniated disc…It went very well. It is amazing for my sciatica pain. I have no more pain or cramps or any sciatic pains down the leg. I had those awfull pain for 5 months now, injection, physio, Chiro didn’t help. I wasn’t able to sit anymore and walking was very difficult and Painfull and on Dilodid pills multiple times a day. Surgery didn’t take long, under two hours without any complications. I am so gratfull. I can walk now short distances and stand up/down by myself hours after the surgery. I know that pain killers will go in a fews days/week but I’m very confident that it will be a win. Only now… not feeling down the extremely bad cramps and pain down my leg is worth it. We’ll see how it goes from here but i had no other option, when pain is unbearable… you can’t live like. Take care alls!
My situation was similar. I am 6 weeks post op now. My sciatica went away for the first week but it came back in various spots. I'm told it's just the nerve going through the healing process. Do you have any numbness or tingling at all or are you still completely sciatica free?
Sounds like my story and I’m now 6 months post op and so glad I had the op. No more sciatica!
@@vzeller I'm completly free of any pain right now. No more sciatica symptoms!
Same here folks! After months of excruciating sciatic and right hip pain and incorrect diagnosis ie Bursitis, Arthritis etc.. my Orthopaedic Specialist confirmed L5-S1 spinal fusion surgery was needed. So it’s been 2 months since my first operation from the back and one week later from the front (ouch) a total of two weeks in hospital, gladly came home a few days before Christmas with plenty of family support and medications.. happy to say I’m now walking without looking like I’m drunk (unless I am 😂) and walk, walk, walk as much as I can. At first walking was tedious and tiring but HANG IN THERE and walk in 10-15 minute sessions x 3 times a day and start building up to 20-30 minutes or listen to your body who will tell you! Putting on socks still a challenge but slowly improving. Any slight pain or niggle is a worry but I understand normal during the healing process. THANK YOU DOCTOR FOR THIS POST. I’m praying that my steady improvement continues so I can get back to “normal” and back on my E-bike rides with my son that I miss SO much. I have to keep remembering the “B-L-T” mantra, no not Bacon Lettuce and Tomato but Bending, Lifting and Twisting! And of course that I’m not 27 but 72 of course!! I hope this helps others. Sending love from sunny Sydney Australia 🇦🇺 ❤
Could you update how you are doing today?
I had always been in pretty good shape and had been working out and hiking regularly. After the last episode Sept.20, 2023 where I couldn’t walk or hardly move I had to do the steroid pills, and then the epidural and 16 weeks of therapy. Then back to the gym lifting much less but using a lot of resistance, and I walk 2-4 miles a day. I went from 5’8” 202lb to 168lbs and my 2 level fusion is in 3 days. I can’t wait to get back to the gym afterwards.
How are you now?
I workout and lift over 275 pounds now I have had a level 3 lumbar fusion I get pain in hip now for compensating the spine but the bdt thing I ever did was get back to building my core otherwise I was couch bound. Move get up do anything. Wilkyout
The way u explained is so nice 👍
Thanks and welcome
@@DrAndreaFurlan Hello madam
Am 44 yrs
Am suffering from canal stenosis and doctors have told me for a lumbar spinal fusion
Have u seen patient s after such surgery
Am worried so asking
Thank you very much for this very informative video on exercise after spinal fusion
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks a lot.
God bless you.❤🙏
Thank you for watching and for writing this comment. God bless you too. Consider subscribing to this channel. I have lots of videos that you might find useful.
I love you doctor my best doctor in Europa ♥
Best thing a person can do prior to having this surgery if over weight is to get yourself as healthy as possible. Many time weight gain is the primary cause of the pain. Do not think surgery is your only option. That is your last option. Many times if you have this surgery you will continue to have this again..
You suggested that I exercize BEFORE lumbar fusion, but that was impossible due to pain. I just had anterior L4-5 fusion and posterior pedicle screw fixation almost two weeks ago, and I want to do the right things so I can get my life back. Thanks for this video.
Did they tell you that you are prone to have it travel up your spine that you'll probably have more surgeries in the future js
Dr Andrea thank you so much for such informative content you put out on YT. Could you please share some info about post hysterectomy strength building exercises to avoid prolapse etc. Also any preparatory exercises prior to the surgery. Thank you so much.
Hi, thank you for this suggestion. This topic is outside of the scope of this channel. This channel is to discuss topics of chronic pain.
@@DrAndreaFurlan thank you very much. No problem.
And you are right I did that just like you said before my surgery and it works you know what you are talking about you do
Thank you for sharing!
Very reasonable .. so nice .. so far of my experience is being concerned.. helpfully.
Thank you for watching the video and writing this comment. Please share this video with your friends. I have lots of videos about chronic pain on my channel ua-cam.com/users/DrAndreaFurlan And don't forget to turn on the notifications 🔔
Thank you so much
This is preposterous. I for one, was bed bound for 2 years prior to a Spinal Fusion of L2, 3 & 4. If I was CAPABLE of doing "Prehab", I would NOT be a candidate for a fusion! The fusion was carried out by my surgeon AS A NECESSITY to walking! Wow, gobsmacked at the ignorance.
Your experience is rare.
Its easy for people who are not in pain to tell you to get active
I agree with you. I have L5-S1 Fusion and no way I can exercise intensively! I can’t stretch properly without causing pain. It’s true however that we have to move but not intensively. It’s absurd
@@quitecolorist8274I have l5 - s1 also but I think it to early to think about exercise I just did it 4 days back
I am with you. If I could exercise intensively, I would not need to consider surgery as drastic as spinal fusion.
Love your content doctor. Recently I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid arthritis and I stumbled upon your channel and started following your videos. Do you have any videos for fulll body work out for ra? Love from India.
Thank you for your comment. That is a good question/suggestion for a future video.
@@DrAndreaFurlan Thank you so much doctor. Looking forward to it 😀
Very informative. Thank u
Glad it was helpful!
I have gotten more information from this one video than l have gotten from my surgeon. 😢 thanks 😅
Glad it was helpful!
Salute for u dr. Love from Pakistan. Really informative
Very good video thanks for sharing
Unfortunately, I was one who had to have a fusion. I also had a laminectomy and microdiscectomy at the same time. Everything was L4-S1. This was a result of me breaking my back as a kid. It never healed right because I never told anybody I fell. Over the years, I developed a slipped vertebrae. Back pain sucks. Pain, in general, sucks. I also have arthritis and degenerative disc disease. I’m only in my 40’s.
Welcome to the club pal!
I have had a similar experience. I am a 49 year old woman and my back issues started about 12-13 years ago. it has progressively gotten worse. I had a laminectomy in 2019 and 3 weeks ago nhad to have a L4L5 fusion. my concearn is that i will have trouble now with my s1 as well as L3 my laminectomy went ok but never really resolved my issue. severe sciatica pain down both legs and my L4 slipped over my L5. I hate when people say to go exersize,as most people have no clue the pain we are in. I will never return to normal activity. this is not only painful but it is cause for my deep depression and anxiety!! I cant walk too much as it burns my lower back. sitting can also bring on tremendous pain and my feet go numb. laying down is also sometimes difficult and I dont sleep very well. I live for my heating pad and ice however i prefer my heating pad as ice makes me feel stiff. I am unable to return to the work I have done most of my life so financially I feel ruined!!! I am petrified of what my future looks like.
Thank you so much for information
Thank you for watching the video and writing this comment. Please share this video with your friends. I have lots of videos about chronic pain on my channel ua-cam.com/users/DrAndreaFurlan And don't forget to turn on the notifications 🔔
And please remember, I do not give individual medical advice via social media or email.
Thanks for good , educational video.🙏🌹💕
Can you do a video about exercises after cervical fusion?
Thank you for your comment. That is a good question/suggestion for a future video.
Thank you so much and that is so good news to know thank you i like your videos I love to
You are so welcome!
Thank you doctor I was wondering if I should exercise as if I had the lumbar surgery.
Hello How can I contact you? I can't find a doctor who can help me in my case. I can find my needs through your videos.
Thank you for taking the time to write this comment. I don't have the ability to give medical advice here because I am not able to get all the details that I need and most importantly, to examine you. I don't give individual medical advice via social media or by email. This channel is for educational purposes only. Please talk to your doctor.
Hi, Dr ❤❤
I love your video !!
I have a surgery like you put at it vídeo.
I want to know is you have video about nerve damage after fusion lumbar ?
Hi Luz, I don't have a video for nerve damage after lumbar fusion.
Thank you !!
It’s nice advice except I couldn’t walk anymore by the time I had lumbar fusion. I was in a wheelchair before surgery so much pain I couldn’t walk.
How are you today?
Can you walk now ?and bend you spine
Thank you very much mam useful video
Welcome 😊
What are all the exercises advised 6 months after lumbar discectomy? Which core strengthening exercises? Please doctor
i had spinal fusion. what are the exercises you recommend?
Thank you for this! I’m 14 and I just had my lumbar fusion spine surgery from my neck to lower back and everything is swollen. Also I feel my stomach stretching since I am a dancer and I had to quit and my bowels are not moving like they should. I want to begin working out as soon as possible but I didn’t know where to start. 🤷🏽♀️
Oh, I'm sorry to hear that. Did you have a serious problem in your spine?
How are you doing now?
@@DrAndreaFurlanlol no they just did it for fun, no issues before😂
Thanks
Welcome
I’m currently making arrangements to have my batteries replaced in my implanted automatic tensing machine. My controller did warn me that the batteries were in a low charged status. But there was a communication issue at the Doctors office, that went one for months. Thus the batteries are 100% dead at this point. My current referral is for a heart specialist, I’m guessing that since he replaces pacemaker batteries that he is my next option. Abbott Lab’s are the technicians and the stimulator is sponsored by St. Jude’s Hospital, yes the same organization that Danny Thomas the actor spent a lifetime supporting.
Dr.Furlan the workouts after lumbar fusion?
Thank you for your useful Infos! My question is about non-fusion, failed back surgery. I am not overweight, never was, I eat healthy and did moderate exercises all my live, and I am walking a lot, before and after lumbar spinal fusion surgery. But I never fused! I had Revision surgery 2 years ago, because of loose screws, and still not fully fused. Besides, I have osteoporosis without bones ever broken. Would you still advise me to exersise very hard every day? My muscles in the back are very tight most of the time.
Actually weight bearing exercises have been proven to help increase muscle density in those with osteoporosis. So yes, exercise is very good for you if you have osteoporosis. In the future if you have another fusion, make sure that your surgeon gives you a bone stimulator. It has a 93% fusion rate. I'm using it now for those fusion since in my first surgery didn't fuse way back when. I feel much better because I did prehab before my extensive 8 level fusion. It's my 11th back surgery and i never thought I'd feel this good after surgery! Not easy but it's the easiest recovery so far, all due to mainly cuz i did prehab before surgery.
HI Sonja, any updates on your back recovery? Your story sounds a lot like mine. Can you tell me what your symptoms were after fusion where they said you didn't have enough bone growth or fusion? I have pain when I lean forward or carry anything heavier than a gallon of milk. I don't drink am not over weight, eat super healthy and walk about 3 miles a day on a small mountain. I am about to have revision of a fusion that did not fuse in 2020. Mine is at L4/L5. Any information you can provide would be great and I hope they figure it out for you. I just bought an inexpensive hot tub and it seems to help my tight muscles knees and ankles and release my muscle tightness but it has not helped the fusion so going for the revision in April. Thanks and good luck.
I am a 58 y.o. woman with Osteopenia. I too have non-union or a non fusion. I had a revision surgery after a 2 level (L4 thru S1) not fusing 2 years post op. Almost 1.5 years after revision , the radiologists believed as well as pain management Doc (surgeon was on the fence and wasn't sure) I was fused. Because of the horrible pain I was still in, I was convinced it was the hardware causing the pain and pushed to have it removed. The surgeon (probably against his better judgment) removed it only to find I only fused at L5/s1. He performed at that time another fusion without instrumentation because I begged him not to put more hardware in me. So, here I am 7 weeks post op hardware removal/re-fusion without instrumentation and I still am in hell. I believe my osteopenia is the reason I am unable to fully fuse. I wish I had been screened for osteopenia/osteoporosis prior.
Could you do more on exercise's to avoid surgery. And the best vitamins to take for osteoarthritis 🙏 please
Hi mark, I have many videos about that in my channel.
@@DrAndreaFurlan sorry I wrote that comment before watching them.
Avoid rush for surgery ,I have back issues for 20 year bulge disc in
Multilevel degeneration disc
I do see specialist many of them but no one rush me to surgery
67 still no surgery I do have pain lower back legs but I manage with painkiller walk exercise few cortisone injections
No severe for surgery specialist said
Your American people at young age rush for surgery make your self worse
In australia spinal surgery hesitated operate to quick
We got Medicare no private insurance I’m glad I don’t have one , private surgeon on insurance to make money operate people even when it’s not necessary
Because I CAN'T exercise without squeezing the disc and buckling my legs. Maybe you should walk in our shoes before you tell us how to live.
Exactly. Every time I went for a walk or lifted even four pounds, it gave me debilitating back pain and compressed my nerve, flaring up tingling and numbness in my leg and foot, and dangerous “foot drop”.
Thank you for your help. I’m going through recovery from SF. When can I expect to get the hardware out?? Unless, it’s not possible.
I don't think they ever remove hardware. I've had mine 10 years now need another one.
Thank you for taking the time to write this comment. I don't have the ability to give medical advice here because I am not able to get all the details that I need and most importantly, to examine you. I don't give individual medical advice via social media or by email. This channel is for educational purposes only. Please talk to your doctor. Have you seen my website yet? Check it out www.doctorandreafurlan.com
Hardware stays in unless it breaks@@darlenelivergood5518
Hi doctor, why would you say that after lumbar fusion the rest of the vertebrae needs to work extra hard. The fusion already made it more stability for the spine so it is also doing its part to support the whole column same as the rest of the upper vertebrae. Thank you
Hi Robert, the spine is made up of many vertebras and they need to articulate with each other to allow smooth movement of bending and rotating. When one segment is fused, the one above and the one below must compensate for the lack of movement of the fused level, so they work extra hard.
I had spinal fussion, and now I have developed numbness and pain on my legs. What do you think it might be.its been a difficult can advice me
I have had Lumber Fusion surgery in my lower back. I started exercising (keeping the lower back immobile or isolated) and continuing to look after my diet. This ended in me loosing weight further. The problem is that my posture has become bent over the front from my hip. Not my shoulders , but my hip. Can you or anyone suggest what workout should I do yo correct this, as it makes me look 10 years older than what I am.
Having same issue... slumping. I need to excise, although it fires up pain immediately. Searching for answers myself.
Are there videos and/or books by Dr Furlan?
Coming soon. Stay tuned.
@Dr. Andrea Furlan. What are your thoughts on mini-trampoline exercises after a patient has recovered from lumbar fusion surgery?
Thank you for watching the video and writing this comment. Please talk to your physiotherapist, as they will be able to help you with an individual program. Consider subscribing to my channel. I post videos once a week about a variety of topics on chronic pain.
I am eight years out of spinal fusion . I worked hard,.walked exercised. Now I am in horrible pain and feel like my back is way worse, plus my spine feels like there is unusual movement. I am going to have a . I continue to walk and keep active. I am sixty six years. I have stood on my feet since I was sixteen with jobs.m
How are you today? Did you go to the doctor?
@@nicolaschamorro4437 Avoid rush for surgery in future I have back issues for 20 year bulge disc in
Multilevel degeneration disc
I do see specialist many of them but no one rush me to surgery
67 still no surgery I do have pain lower back legs but I manage with painkiller walk exercise few cortisone injections
No severe for surgery specialist said
Your American people at young age rush for surgery make your self worse
In australia spinal surgery hesitated operate to quick
We got Medicare no private insurance I’m glad I don’t have one , private surgeon on insurance to make money operate people even when it’s not necessary
Excellent video on lumbar fusion surgery exercises ...yes there are many surgeries done in my hospital immediate postoperative rehab used to give in bedside at 7 to 10 days with spinal orthosis support made them walk ..encourage them walking ...but iam in acute care setup so never seen after 6 mths follow up ...very hard to know you had undergone fusion ....yes aerobics and core exs are good " prehab " as evidence need to go through the article if you send link ....dr andrea fine
Thank you vignesh!
I'm 40 and in perfect health with a strong core and shredded muscles. I have a disc protrusion that is pressing my L5 nerve root. My right leg is completely jacked up. I can walk long distances but standing in one place is impossible. It burns my entire leg. My protrusion won't heal because the nuclei pulposa is stuck in the annulus. The buldge is there to stay. It's been 6 months. I have grade one spondy so a discectomy isn't an option. Fusion is really the only option to remove the disc and get it off my nerve. You can't exercise my problem away. Believe me, I've tried. I'm an athletic freak. What would you suggest?
I’m looking at the TOPS device instead of fusion. I get sciatica in both legs and I’m very active. Exercise kept it at bay for 6 years, but it’s time. The TOPS device still gives you spine movement and is a faster recovery time. It’s for spondy. Good luck.
I stjll have excruciating pain after failed back surgery. I had been operated 3mnths ago.
I am very confused that there is a Korean subtitle.... who made it??
Hi, is the Korean subtitles wrong? I used google translator.
@@DrAndreaFurlan translation is good! I was surprised by yout kindness for Korean
After fusion I lost feeling in lower right leg below the knee
Bonjour quel hasard je dois décider si je me fais opérer ou essayer des exercices .Quels spécialistes
Devrais-je consulter pour les exercices j'ai 70 ans .Merci pour vos vidéos
Thank you for your comment. Have you seen my website already? www.doctorandreafurlan.com/ I hope you like it.
I can’t even ride my recumbent bike or do stretches scheduled for a mis tlif surgery
Like to know after three vertebrae fusion can the person bend they back or not Thnks
I am to have another fusion next month Feb 20,2023. I keep reading it's just going to cause me to have more later. I have L5-S1 done with cage and screws/bars. Now L4 is slipped, have spinal stenosis causing foot/toe numbness hip/leg pain and can't stand long. MY QUESTION IS: is surgery my only answer? Can't this be taken care of another way? I've been in much pain for 2 years now getting by with pain pills 2x a day.(Diclofenac) Please help me make a decision what way is the best. Thanks so much been watching many videos.
Thank you for taking the time to write this comment. I don't have the ability to give medical advice here because I am not able to get all the details that I need and most importantly, to examine you. I don't give individual medical advice via social media or by email. This channel is for educational purposes only. Please talk to your doctor. Have you seen my website yet? Check it out www.doctorandreafurlan.com
Hello how surgery went?
How do you feel now ?
I'm suffering from a lumber subluxation and a chronic Lower back pain would you suggest fusion for my problem?
Im going thru the exact same thing you are im 7 years post L5 S1Last MRI showed not only another bad disc right above the fusion but they are now saying i have worn out arthritic facet joints so ive been suffering 1.5 years im 62 im figuring my chances of surviving another surgery are getting less and i just dont think i can go thru it again OH and ive completely lost all trust in the medical field since covid
its all good til it fails, then you got metal impinging your nerves crippling you burning and you will wish you died, dont forget being labeled a drug addict for looking for relief, even with the scars and MRI's to prove.
But after there fuses you will be unable to bend very well
had my neck Surgery almost ok Can Walk
03:14 . If a person got overweight and out of shape after recovering from spine fusion . Is it too late to try to get back to shape as you suggest or has damage been after a couple years from the recovering time ?
It is never too late to start getting in shape.
@@DrAndreaFurlan do you have Instagram?
after 6 to 8 weeks of spine surgery, can decompress or traction is good for your spine or not
Please check with your doctor.
I dont think you are supposed to pull on your spine after you have had it fused. I got rid of my inversion table after my first fusion but i will hang from my chin-up bar every couple days but it hurts in a good way
I had a double lumbar fusion and they damaged my L5 nerve root so I have numbness in my right toes and on the front half of my bottom foot. It is painful and I don’t know what to do. I have a second surgeon neurologist appointment the first week of January. My pain management doctor is working with me but it is not good. Does anyone have the symptoms I do and what helps you. I am at the end of my rope and can’t live like this much longer. Please any suggestions would be so appreciated. Thank you
I had L5-S1 fused and did good for 10 years. I now have the foot/toes numbness hip/leg pain. It's caused by nerve pinch or damaged and having another fusion fen 20th. I think the one way of fixing it is to unpinch or burn it. Maybe look up burning nerve roots. I hope you get it fixed. This dr doesn't seem to answer anyone's questions so you can get some directions into what to look for or watch. I'm afraid I'm might have to keep doing surgery if I do this again. I almost want to cancel and don't know what to do. Good luck.
I had neuropathy due to nerve damage with spinal stenosis I endured 16 months I endured before fusion surgery in November.
I am 12wks post surgery today and have numbness worse below my knees and my feet are numb...I too don't know what to do ..my surgeon will see me Feb 15th .
Let me know if you get better !
Im going on 7 years L5 S1 ive got the burning stabbing numbness, feels like a bug crawling up your leg. I'll just put up with it rather than have another surgery @@darlenelivergood5518
Just remember you are definitely not alone in this battle @@karenmiller3750
What exercise do you recomend after a Laminotomy and laminectomy surgery
Thank you for your comment. That is a good question/suggestion for a future video.
My mum had an surgery last year around aug.. She is still recovering.. But sometimes while standing or walking for a long time.. Her right leg foot usually has a swelling. Can it be cured quickly?
Thank you for taking the time to write this comment. I don't have the ability to give medical advice here because I am not able to get all the details that I need and most importantly, to examine you. I don't give individual medical advice via social media or by email. This channel is for educational purposes only. Please talk to your doctor. Have you seen my website yet? Check it out www.doctorandreafurlan.com
Ha Ha Can it be cured quickly. My neurosurgeon's nurse would just prescribe me methylprednisolone it would help my foot for a couple weeks then it started hurting again, said they could't do anything else for me unless i wanted a spinal stimulater installed
6 weeks ago I had spinal lumbar fusion. 5 lower disks. I am afraid of what exercise to start with what would you recommend I start with. I walk it’s about all I do and have taken on work at home again. I am so fearful of hurting myself as I do not want to face another surgery.😢
Dra fala da fusão de cervical.
l had l1 bone fracture so l2 toT12 scrow and rod fixed my health is good how many weekto take rest
How are you now buddy? Any issues ?
I used to love exercising before the surgery and I had to stop due to pain and having to use a walker and mobility aids . It has been 7 months since my surgery and whenever I try exercising my pain flares up which is leaving me very frustrated and unable to continue.
What is your advice for people that want to keep healthy and start exercising but it causes lots of pain when they do? I walk every day and pace myself best I can.
Hi Sofija, have you seen my other video about pain after exercises? ua-cam.com/video/5XOZCCUBnFo/v-deo.html
@@DrAndreaFurlan No,I haven't yet.I have just stumbled on your video now for the first time.I will check it out.Thank you for a quick reply.
Avoid rush for surgery in future I have back issues for 20 year bulge disc in
Multilevel degeneration disc
I do see specialist many of them but no one rush me to surgery
67 still no surgery I do have pain lower back legs but I manage with painkiller walk exercise few cortisone injections
No severe for surgery specialist said
Your American people at young age rush for surgery make your self worse
In australia spinal surgery hesitated operate to quick
We got Medicare no private insurance I’m glad I don’t have one , private surgeon on insurance to make money operate people even when it’s not necessary
Lmao this is such bullshit. Prehab! Lmao I trained daily, I’m a trainer. This video is so discouraging to people who really need this surgery and it’s fear mongering.
This is absolute madness, why the hell would you need it locked in place. Na my mum is not is millions years having this dam operation. She will never be able to sit down on the toilet let alone get out of bed. This is madness. Nope!!!!!
Is it possible to play contact sports like football and basketball after lumbar fusion?
It depends. It is better to ask your doctor. Have you seen my website already? www.doctorandreafurlan.com/ I hope you like it.
What a waste of time watching this video.
If a person could do all the exercising you are proposing with the pain they are experiencing, then you would not have needed the surgery - at least I would not have needed my surgery.
I first had a lumbar laminotomy, but after the surgery, my L2 and L3 vertebrae collapsed on one another, so a spinal fusion was necessary.
I had both spinal stenosis and scoliosis in my spine, which was worst at the location of the L2 and L3. vertebrae.
I assume spinal fusion is not done on Canadians because of the limited health care provided by Canada’s health care system.
Biased opinion from someone who starts with a video admitting that she doesn't treat many spinal fusions. Spinal fusions are from the United States. She has strong opinions for someone who works in a limited intervention healthcare system. She doesn't have access to more advanced interventions and experience in diagnosing and treating… With advanced interventions. Instead just declares exercise to everyone even when the structure has failed. Exercise/physical therapy is great, but when the structure has failed it's time to repair/replace the structure. Though her healthcare system won't let her do proper diagnosing and interventions so she sits back and declares her lack of interventions as superior. Truly sad that this person will never experience a myriad of interventions and outcomes. Just keep prescribing exercise when you can't do anything.
I welcome comments that disagree with me in a respectful manner. I'm sorry, but I disagree with you. I think there are way too many back surgeries in the US. I'm not saying that some patients need surgery, but in the US there are too many people operated without doing a good and extensive exercise program PRIOR TO SURGERY. If they had done exercises before, they would not need surgery. Then, after the operation, the surgeon tells them that if they don't stick to a regular, extensive and good program of exercises they will not get better. So, what is the point? I would prefer to try exercises before surgery than after. Back pain is mostly caused by myofascial pain, which is muscle pain. Muscles don't like surgery, they like exercises. But patients don't want to spend time doing exercises, they want a quick fix.
@@DrAndreaFurlanI agree with you Dr
I noted many young people rush. For surgery in USA for the fact that they have access to insurance cover and ruining them self more and make surgeon more reach no understanding surgeon want to make money operate even when not necessary
I got chronic back issue 20 more years and surgeon still not will to operate on me said I will be worse I’m not insisting if I have to be worse I manage with Physio medication walking exercise in the pool doing cortisone once in a while
In australia govt want surgeon to operate on back only if it’s really necessary and after others method have failed
Don’t do it!
Thank you for watching the video and writing this comment. Please share this video with your friends. I have lots of videos about chronic pain on my channel ua-cam.com/users/DrAndreaFurlan And don't forget to turn on the notifications 🔔
And please remember, I do not give individual medical advice via social media or email.
What do Canadians do if no spinal fusions?
The surgeons in Canada do spinal fusion, but only for people who have neurological deficits that could progress to a neurological damage. If the person has only chronic low-back pain without neurological deficits, it will be really hard to get surgery.
@@DrAndreaFurlan wow! So do we do too many or Canada doesn’t do as much deserved?
There is data showing that the rates of spinal surgeries in the US are way too high compared to other countries.
@@DrAndreaFurlanWould neurological deficits include progression to pinched nerves?
I like you vidio Dr Andrea Furlan
I don't believe that lumbar fusion happens most in the U.S. Because there is just way too many older women around here in Canada too with mobility problems. Because some women patients in Canada are being treated different than men are only because they are stay at home mothers which some male born in Canada physicians and some female physicians too from more priviledged backgrounds with 1 or 2 children in day care who believe we stay at home moms are all leading a sedentary life. For example: When I was only in my late 20's after an X-ray was done on my spine a specialist physician who was born in another nation told my lumbar fusion was beginning to happen to me which he said was the norm at the time for women who are mothers to small children. While suffering from intense pain in the lumber region for awhile and with loss of neural function too I went to see a family doctor about it. He only got me to stand on his examining table with very little on only to tell me that I was young enough to avoid having to undergo surgery. While I was up until being thrown off of my bicycle once in a collision with the cyclist in front of me who had stopped suddenly often swimming, canoing, biking, hiking and for example once swinging from a T bar sliding along a long steel cable in the woods during scout camp. I once after being a leader in that cub camp during a family outing remember having to carry my daughter down a steep incline after being told by her father that she was fine trying to do that on her own which I had disagreed was true. I continued getting lots of various forms of exercise. With an undiagnosed chronic lung condition only mild at first too. Like in my 60's for 3 years while working for S.T.A.R.S. walking 3 hours per day 6 days per week for months in up to minus 20 degrees. After being in a roll over car accident now 3 years later I have 2 spots in my spine in which fusion has already taken place thanks to how Canadian women who marry young are being regarded my a lot of people.
So sorry to hear this. If you can come to US state of Pennsylvania, State College, Dr Bailey he is the best. I have him for mt surgeon. Best on the East Coast.
I'm sorry that is happening to you but unfortunately in this world even in the United States women are poo-pooed all the time about their pain we do not get the health care that men get you're absolutely right the way that men look at our healthcare as being not as painful as there's and it's a proven fact that women of color get even worse healthcare than we do they also take and don't give them the pain medicine that they need whereas they will women that are white they'll give them more pain medicine than they will of a person that's a woman that's of color it's unfortunate even your right with female doctors I actually was a nurse here in the United States for over 20 years where I live and I met very many doctors especially from other countries that even looked down on us women as nurses I mean I don't know what the whole thing is but I'm very sorry that you are in the pain that you're in because I definitely just had a fusion myself and I had to be put on disability due to so much pain the hospital admitted me and they did all the paperwork cuz I didn't want to go on disability I made more money working but no I I get the pain that you're feeling and now that we have so many problems here in the United States with the whole pain med problem you're very lucky we are in the United States I don't know about up there if we even get pain pills from pain Management I wish there was something I could tell you to do I could do for you to make it to where you are and then just so much pain but please take care of yourself😊
And people forget the hardest job in the world is taking care of your kids being at home I did both I was a single parent and then when she was old enough I went back to school also so no you did a great job by staying home and taking care of your kids which is great for them and I know you enjoyed to so kudos to you and don't let those stupid doctor's getting your head😊
🙏❤
Bet she googled that😅
💜❤️❤️☘️☘️
Thank you
Grammar alert. Single persons are referred to with plural pronouns.
নাইস..
Zero help.