No one mentions getting a bidet to clean after BMs. If you can't afford one or can't install it, use a water bottle filled at the sink to wash with. Not having to twist to wipe is a very good idea.
I took my travel pillow with me to the hospital for my TLIF. That was a fabulous tip. I was able to sleep easily and watch TV in comfort. Even my nurses said more people should know to bring those with them.
I AM SO SCARED I AM IN PAIN, CANCEL SURGERY SO MANY TIMES, I NEED HELP, BUT YOU ARE FABULOUS, AND THANK YOU SO MUCH I AM 52 YEARS YOUNG, BUT HORRIBLE WHEN IT COMES TO PAIN, YOU GIVE ME STRENGTH, THANK YOU IF ANYONE CAN ENCOURAGE ME ,I WILLING TO READ AND LISTEN
No honest surgeon will operate on someone in such fear. Seek psychiatric assistance. You fear might indicate that you don't😊 believe surgery will help.
Im am going to surgery soon and I'm so excited to get my life back. At first I was scared until I saw a few videos including yours. I feel much better about the surgery. Thank you for your story. How are you doing now?
I never would of thought of using a plastic bag that’s a great idea thank you. I am preparing for a spinal fusion, L5 S1, so I’m glad I was able to catch your video
My ALIF surgery is on January 10th, 2025. Your videos are filled with great information. Thank you for sharing your experiences and advise. My stress level is still very high but now I have more information for my recovery. I hope you have fully recovered and back to normal. Thank you!! ~~/)~~
A sleep mask is helpful in case you want to sleep during the day or when the lights are on. There is also a help aid for reaching your backside with toilet paper. And a long handled bath sponge for the shower to reach everything.
Thank you for your videos. I am two weeks post op. I had a spinal lumbar fusion L3&L4. I've had back issues since 1983. Last spring, I've been having issues with my sciatica to where I could not sleep at night. So now I've had my surgery and basically hating that I cannot bend over, twist and lay in bed. I am slowly feeling a little better every day. The pain I feel now is different than before surgery. I have hooting pain in my hip, burning in my back and feeling really stiff. I realize I am only 2 weeks post op. I believe things will get better as time goes on.
Hi Jennae, thank you so much for sharing. Very helpful for all people facing spinal surgery. Can you please post an update on how you are going a year on?
I was at a Baylor Scott and White hospital. Had the best care EVER!! Lakeway Tx. Dr Burnt and his crew nurses staff and house keepers cafeteria staff. PT and anyone else I have forgotten I apologize if I forgot someone. Everyone was so kind helpful lovable. . Very professional!! First week at hospital stay stuff you mentioned is not needed till you go home .
I have surgery in January and I'm dreading it. But I need it terrible. So this video is awesome im gonna use some of her suggestions. But I will be documenting my journey
Thank you for posting your journey. I always think I should be further along than I am but your videos help to pace me. I have pain down my legs and I’m stiff every morning. It’s like starting over every day. I walk only once a day for a mile. It helps. Please keep posting.
Thank you Jennae for your very helpful videos. I’m having an anterior ALIF and posterior fusion surgery Tuesday after my ADR failed last fall. I greatly appreciate all the information you have shared. I hope you are doing well 2 years out and living life happily. Very Best, Alex
ALIF L5-S1 coming up 1/18/24. I’m in my 60’s (a lot older than you) hoping for the same results. God bless. Thank you for the must haves and your journey through this process. Much appreciated 😊 Wish me Luck!
My thoughts of healing, comfort, and peace going out to you as your surgery should have taken place at the time of this reply. I hope all is well with you!
Almost 3 weeks s/p operation. Had severe nausea from anesthesia but resolved in a day. Thankfully my son is a nurse and had rotating help for 1-1/2 weeks. Seeing surgeon tomorrow for suture removal! I feel great! Thank you for the well wishes! 😊
Thank you Jennae for the info. I have my ALIF in two weeks and I am super nervous but your video helped me understand what items I might need for recovery.
You should definitely do a video explaining what was going on before surgery. The amount of pain level you were, what you did before to avoid the surgery, why the Surgeon Decided to go with that type of surgery. It will definitely help all of us That’s going through a type of back problem. Just a tip! but thanks for the videos hope you’re doing great!!!!
I agree I asked that question on a video earlier when she was about to be released but no reply. Curious if she has any updates to these videos? Hopefully everything is going well for you now and Pain Free! Please update us.
@@KBradAdams good luck with that.3 to 4 years out you won't hear from too many patient's.They say the fusions last about 4 or 5 years and the more vertebra they fuse the quicker the remaining disk degenerate.im at 6 years now having major issues with the disc above and some issues with the l5 S1.Thats the two they already fused
@@johnmitchell8925 I had a discectomy in 2017, on the L4/L5, couple of years later it ruptured again. They fused L4/L5 or tried too. I am still in pain when I do anything other than sit on my azz or sleep. I thought from day 1 my L5/S1 was an issue but they never addressed it. I guess my options are get L4/L5 revision surgery and hope it fuses and takes care of it, or do L4/L5 revision and Fuse L5/S1. Just don't want to be looking at more surgeries down the road. I hear some say they get adjacent segment disease like you mentioned but hear others say they never have any issues. And lets don't even get into finding the right surgeon to do it. That has been a huge head ache.
@@johnmitchell8925 damn. Why don’t they offer artificial disk instead? This sucks. But im sick of leg pain and back pain. Gonna ask about Artificial disc instead
Thank you for this most helpful video. You have a nice clear, concise voice. You should’ve been a teacher unless you already are. Big smile. I am having a lateral fusion on L34 and 23. I had an anterior fusion on 34 anS one to 24 years ago. I’m hoping this one is a little easier. One thing you didn’t mention that might be helpful is a raised toilet seat. I think that’s a must. Anyway, thanks so much for this information. very kind of you. Good luck to anyone else who’s having this rather intense but ideally healing procedure. 0:04
would love to see another update post surgery. Found your videos very helpful and informative as I'm 3 weeks away from the same surgery. Thanks a bunch for documenting your journey.
I’m supposed to go for my operation 2 weeks ago but kept postponing it now my pain is hitting the roof. I’m silently DEAD scared. I will be home a alone sometimes inevitably I hope to go to a rehabilitation facility. The pain affecting my feet badly. Getting all the goodies is excellent idea. I’m panicking about the finances of getting the necessary stuff please please pray for me. My pain tolerance level is very low.
You gotta take care of yourself sweet love. I just had emergency surgery. When I went to er first time they made me feel like I was an inconvenience and as if I was just faking the screaming and crying to send me home and tell me it's just sciatica and MRIs are for emergencies only bc I asked several times to please. I was in far too much pain for it to just be sciatica. I couldn't even stand up straight for them to take xrays without screaming. They treated and dismissed me as if that's normal. I don't know what addicts go in there and do but I imagine after crying for a month unable to get about lm sure I looked like a junkie but dammit it was an emergency now I'm living with nerve damage in my groin area. I'm 41 wearing diapers. After I left the er the first time about 2 days later I went numb and then proceeded to wait another 4 days to go to the er. Not to mention both times going was an incredible feat in itself. Nurses and doctors need to be taught some bed side manners. So treating people like an inconvenience for coming in. If you don't like your job. Go home. Had they listened to me the first time I wouldn't be wearing diapers and worrying about my husband leaving me cause of the obvious. I was so healthy. 125lbs 5'3" muscular. Now I'm 100 lbs. My muscles are wasting in my legs. I have cauda equina syndrom. I never heard of it before. Please take care is yourself and make them listen to you! God loves you and so do I. Take care.
Your list of must haves is PERFECT! I am now four weeks out of L3,4,5,S1 and everything you mentioned would help. Not sure about the nightgown in my case. LOL. Great video, thanks!
Excellent pointers! My BIL is coming to stay with us after his surgery. I just ordered the back scratcher and a shoe horn. I have all the other items. Let me just add that a shoe horn is helpful when later down the road. Much appreciated!
I've decided to have the surgery in a couple of weeks. I'll be in a wheelchair if I don't. I'm having a lumbar infusion. Amazon has a hip surgery kit that has everything you need for surgery. It helps with everything you need, including a grabber. It cost about 30.00. You suggested a couple of things like the garbage bag. Thanx for sharing.
@@FromTheHood2TheWoods The only thing I can say is there was no other option for me other than having another discectomy but I felt like I would have re ruptured that one again like Tiger Woods did his second discectomy. Before the surgery I could not walk more than 4 or 5 steps, was in constant pain and could not sleep. I don't mean pain like oh my back hurts. I mean like the worst sciatic pain you can imagine, similar to torture. I have had bad injuries torn both ACL's broken arms things like that and this was so bad. In Tears pain, suicidal where you are in a 10 pain level 24 seven, then when its a little better its a 8 but you only sleep because you have been up 3 days straight from exhaustion. Falling asleep in a bathtub full of ice because the numbness was the only thing that would stop the pain a little. When I awoke from surgery that sciatic pain was 100% gone. I went home that day, I could walk stand sleep, off all pain meds the next day, the pain level was about a 1 from surgery. My body was weak but honestly if I had to do it over again I would have done it but the only difference is I might have talked to a few more surgeons, maybe even considered disc replacement or maybe had them go in from the front to guarantee a solid fusion or higher rate of fusion. I guess if I do get the revision I could end up in more pain or the same and that would suck if I have it, wait another year and end up exactly like I am now, But I guess better than ending up in more pain would suck even worse. Right now I can work sleep live but not like I would like too.. So that is the big question. Am I confident in the surgeon I choose.
@@KBradAdams thank you so much bro. Very helpful to hear others stories!! I been in horrible pain for 10 years, but only if I am bending down or lifting stuff. 10 years ago they said I had a herniated disc but I was scared of surgery so I just tried not to do too much hard work, but the past three years been remodeling this house carrying bags of concrete and basically doing everything myself, it hurts so bad now, if I drive for more than 10 minutes my legs hurt so damn bad, I never knew that back issues cause leg pain, the recent MRI showed mine is basically bone on bone at L5 S1. Been going to appointment after appointment, today the neurosurgeon at Shands Hospital finally told me that I would be getting the surgery mid September, I thought it was just fusion and Alif, where they go in from the front. But she said they are going to go in from the front and flip me over and secure it from the back also so it fuses together. That’s crazy you were in that much pain and then the pain was gone thank God, I can’t imagine how people lived back in the days without this technology, I just want it hurry up and fixed before some stupid virus comes and shuts everything down again, or before Putin starts nuclear war, LOL I want this fixed while it’s possible. Man I was invisible most my life but now at 41 I see that’s not the case anymore. I mowed the lawn other day and now my upper back hurts, hope it’s just muscles sore and not an upper disk. I’m so careful now, I don’t want to get hurt, I don’t wrestle with my son or play basketball or anything risky anymore. I used to ride motorcycles but I’m not even taking that chance. Can’t imagine another crazy injury. 2 years ago got caught in a little explosion had to get skin grafts from the fire. Man that was 6 months of hell. So yea we have to be mindful. But still find things to do so we can enjoy the rest of our lives. Take it easy
@@FromTheHood2TheWoods Wow yours sounds a lot like mine and how it started. Does your back ever go out? That is how mine started about once a year then about every four months.. that feeling where you feel sick to your stomach and can't even walk for a week then you feel ok... over do it then 3 months later bam it goes out again. Then one day it goes from being pretty bad to bed ridden and miserable and constant. The discectomy helped me but sounds like your disc is gone so fusion might be the only way. One thing I might suggest is call this Dr. ua-cam.com/users/hoomanmelamed and have him read your MRI and Xray or whatever you have. He gave me the best reading of anyone and actually did a surgery on one of the doctors from the show the doctors. Good luck and keep me posted.
I’m 10 months out post op. I was fused T2 to L5. So neck to bum crack. So the back scratcher wasn’t really a option for me. Because of how long and high my fusion goes I won’t ever be able to bend down and touch the ground. So I was sent home with a sock tool. That was a incredible help. All I had to do was put the sock on the tool. Drop it on the floor and slip my foot in. And take the long rope and pull up. As my foot goes into the sock the tool pulls out. Then I do the same on the other. And I got such a laugh when I saw your gripe stick. I was sent home with one. And I ended up buying a bunch so I have one in each room. I drop stuff all the time too. Everyone was annoyed before before I got the additional sticks. And I never thought of the plastic bag to help scoot into the car. I don’t need it anymore but what a great idea. I wish I would of saw this before surgery. Lots of great helpful things were listed.
Having ALIF in a few weeks. Thank you for tips. Note - please be sure to check with your surgeon regarding the heating pad. My renowned surgeon does not allow heat first 6 weeks as it increases risk of infection
Thank you Jennae. I’m 3 weeks out of surgery and this was helpful. Please let us know how you’re doing. I didn’t get much info from the hospital so I don’t know what to expect as far as recovery is concerned. Thanks again!
I’m having surgery on October 2nd. Fusing C2-t12, I’m so glad I saw your video so I can go ahead and get these items ahead of time. I’m so nervous but so ready.
I had the same thing done in 04. Went in on a Monday 08:00, was home Tuesday 11:30, went back to work the following Monday, 7 days later. However, 4 - 5 months later scar tissue started to invade S1 and the pain started to come back.
Jenna this was helpful. I am about to have the fusion at my l5-s1. I have had two discectomy laminectomy’s, but still problematic, deciding to do as mentioned. Third time is a charm. So I have some experience with the surgery obviously, but I sure am dreading this fusion, but again, you were helpful.
Thanks I’m 4 months old of a fusion T10 to the pelvis. I already have most of the items but the idea of a satin pillow case for May seat cushion is great!
My daughter is gonna be around T2- possible pelvis. How do you feel now months after the surgery? Any tips you could recommend would be truly appreciated. Thank you 😊
Thanks for the informative sequence of events and recovery. Planning for November and it definitely helps to get the helpful details. I hope you have recovered more.
Hi. I am 3 weeks post surgery…I I can relate to everything you have explained in your videos! Please post an update as I see you are about 1 year post and I would really appreciate a further update so that I can get an idea of what to expect 🙏 Thank for all you have posted so far…I pray that you are doing well now. Best wishes!
Hola tengo 2 dias de mi cirugía l5 s1 el primer día dolores muy fuertes pero logre caminar el dia 2s me quitaron la sonda o drenaje para orinar. Y camine. El dolor es muy alto incluso con medicamentos y es muy incomodo dormir pero sigo optimistas porque camino con mi andador las chicas de fisioterapia me hacen caminar. Hago mis oraciones me trato de interesar en Otros escribebiendo mensjes de animo o lellendo sus mensajes ,eso me mantiene positiva. Espero mejorar como tu. La anestesia me dio muchas nauseas y mareos . Jehová mediante seguiré mejorando, tu cara y videos me dan animo para seguir. Espero noticias de ti y tu recuperación pronto
@@maryanntoroc3552 I am great. Shout out to Dr. John Hamilton Fairfax VA. I have dull post surgical healing but nothing like the sciatic nerve torture I experienced pre surgery.
I've got to make a decision about a fourth spinal op at l4/5. This time a fusion with screws etc, already had laminectomy, ilif fusion and sideways discetomy.... I think a posterior fusion. Great to see how others have/are coping after fusion.
@@brittanyobrien7495 y have a degenerative spine. The fusion worked well and I was out of pain for a couple of years. Last year I stumbled and blew an L2 facet joint, a synovial cyst developed and I now need decompression surgery. ( The cyst did disappear but is now back) Hopefully I'll not need another fusion there. So grateful to my surgeon.
My dr sent me home in essence than 24 hrs and I was on my own w 2 dogs. It was insane. Please take time to recover yall. I'm a yr out and left side is so painful.
Jennae! Thank you so much for making these videos. I watched your whole series and they definitely prepared me for my spinal fusion I just received. You rock. How are you feeling these days? Thanks again and much love to you.
I’ve watched a ton of videos on the subject. Yours was the most helpful so far. My spinal fusion is September 19. Thanks for your tips and hope you are doing well.
Thank you so much for making these videos. I am preparing for the same surgery as you, and your videos boosts my morale for sure . Can you share how soon you were able to return to work, and do any sort of travel? How are you feeling now after a year. Appreciate your videos and wishing you best for continued recovery.
Thanks for all the videos I am still waiting as Hospital has put it off as wanted stress test for Heart. I have Major groin pain butt very bad pain both thighs and calf’s I was 20 years old as I was going into police at time. Then had motor bike accident not my fault. I can’t walk far now I had fall on escalators 1 year ago then all started again. I now have date for 16 th August 24. I am very scared at 72 I don’t Drink or smoke I hope to God this works. Take care.
Same surgery (ALIF L5-S1) last Feb 23rd.Did you have still pain in your leg 3 weeks after ? Sneezing is tough . Is it harmful for the new disk and screws ? How many time are you allowed to be sit ? is it bad for the surgery to be sit ? I am looking forward to watching your update.... Thx for the videos. very helpful so far !
Wish she would post an update, some are nightmares and some are "successful". These progression videos are scary and slmost always start off positive at 6months and 18months then you fast forward 4yyears and pain is back.
Thank you for the tips. I am going to have a Alift in January as well. It’s encouraging to see you doing so well. I would like to know if they stitched you up or used glue to close? I don’t like glue closures. I like the neck pillow and water bottle tip the most. All your tips are helpful.
@@KBradAdams I cant believe it worked so well. The sciatica pain is gone, the disk protrusion and pinched nerves in my L5-S1 are gone. I was getting numbness and pain in my tail bone, thats all gone. The only thing left the surgery didn’t cure is the neuropathy in my feet. I just got a spinal cord stimulator to block the pain signals from going to my brain. Its working like a charm. I know I could walk all day, and feel the stress on my feet when i got home, so still prefer to take it easy at the stores and ride the cart when i can, I just don’t want to do anymore damage to those nerves in my feet. They have yet to adjust my strength all the way up, they wanted me to wait a while after surgery. I think the nurse will do it telemedicine this weekend. When i get all healed up, I am going into physical therapy. Over time i expect to become stronger. I lost a lot of muscle laying in bed. It was a A-Lift then they flipped me over on my tummy and put the plate in with the screws, that is called a fusion and PLift. I would not be afraid of getting it fixed. It was worth it to me.
No one mentions getting a bidet to clean after BMs. If you can't afford one or can't install it, use a water bottle filled at the sink to wash with. Not having to twist to wipe is a very good idea.
I took my travel pillow with me to the hospital for my TLIF. That was a fabulous tip. I was able to sleep easily and watch TV in comfort. Even my nurses said more people should know to bring those with them.
I AM SO SCARED I AM IN PAIN, CANCEL SURGERY SO MANY TIMES, I NEED HELP, BUT YOU ARE FABULOUS, AND THANK YOU SO MUCH I AM 52 YEARS YOUNG, BUT HORRIBLE WHEN IT COMES TO PAIN, YOU GIVE ME STRENGTH, THANK YOU IF ANYONE CAN ENCOURAGE ME ,I WILLING TO READ AND LISTEN
NEVER NEVER DON'T IT
are you ok? Was reading comments and thought I would ask how you were doing
Homeopathy remedies apis mellifica helps nerve pain arnica Montana helps with brushing swelling and pain. Silk sheets are a must.
No honest surgeon will operate on someone in such fear. Seek psychiatric assistance. You fear might indicate that you don't😊 believe surgery will help.
Im am going to surgery soon and I'm so excited to get my life back. At first I was scared until I saw a few videos including yours. I feel much better about the surgery. Thank you for your story. How are you doing now?
I just want to take a minute to thank you for sharing. Really appreciate it. I’m facing ALIF and your videos are really helpful
Jennae, I had my ALIF/TLIF surgery 2 weeks ago. Your advice about satin pajamas made my life SO much easier, thank you, thank you, thank you!
I never would of thought of using a plastic bag that’s a great idea thank you.
I am preparing for a spinal fusion, L5 S1, so I’m glad I was able to catch your video
My ALIF surgery is on January 10th, 2025. Your videos are filled with great information. Thank you for sharing your experiences and advise. My stress level is still very high but now I have more information for my recovery. I hope you have fully recovered and back to normal. Thank you!! ~~/)~~
Hi how did it go?…hope you are healing well
A sleep mask is helpful in case you want to sleep during the day or when the lights are on. There is also a help aid for reaching your backside with toilet paper. And a long handled bath sponge for the shower to reach everything.
Thank you for your videos. I am two weeks post op. I had a spinal lumbar fusion L3&L4. I've had back issues since 1983. Last spring, I've been having issues with my sciatica to where I could not sleep at night.
So now I've had my surgery and basically hating that I cannot bend over, twist and lay in bed. I am slowly feeling a little better every day. The pain I feel now is different than before surgery. I have hooting pain in my hip, burning in my back and feeling really stiff. I realize I am only 2 weeks post op. I believe things will get better as time goes on.
How are you doing now Bobbers? I bet much better or I hope much better now.
Back scratcher- brilliant. Needed it desperately today.
I found the grabber very helpful for pulling up knickers!
Thanks. I’m facing this lovely ordeal, possibly sooner than later, and all of your advice makes complete sense.
Hi Jennae, thank you so much for sharing. Very helpful for all people facing spinal surgery. Can you please post an update on how you are going a year on?
I was at a Baylor Scott and White hospital. Had the best care EVER!!
Lakeway Tx. Dr Burnt and his crew nurses staff and house keepers cafeteria staff. PT and anyone else I have forgotten I apologize if I forgot someone. Everyone was so kind helpful lovable. . Very professional!!
First week at hospital stay stuff you mentioned is not needed till you go home .
This woman is a legend. I would like a 2025 update please.. 🙏🏼☺️
I have surgery in January and I'm dreading it. But I need it terrible. So this video is awesome im gonna use some of her suggestions. But I will be documenting my journey
Thank you for posting your journey. I always think I should be further along than I am but your videos help to pace me. I have pain down my legs and I’m stiff every morning. It’s like starting over every day. I walk only once a day for a mile. It helps. Please keep posting.
im getting my spinal fusion for scoliosis on 2nd Oct n this is very helpful i hope you hv a speedy recovery
Thank you. I am 74 and will be having this surgery soon, this was very helpful.
Thank you Jennae for your very helpful videos. I’m having an anterior ALIF and posterior fusion surgery Tuesday after my ADR failed last fall. I greatly appreciate all the information you have shared. I hope you are doing well 2 years out and living life happily. Very Best, Alex
Im having the same surgery... how was your recovery?
Keep updating.good luck with recovery
This was hugely helpful for me. I’ve watched all of your videos. The knee pillow is my favorite. Side sleeping is the way to go. Thanks so much!
Thank you for making this video. You are so sweet to take the time to do this!
ALIF L5-S1 coming up 1/18/24. I’m in my 60’s (a lot older than you) hoping for the same results. God bless. Thank you for the must haves and your journey through this process. Much appreciated 😊
Wish me Luck!
My thoughts of healing, comfort, and peace going out to you as your surgery should have taken place at the time of this reply. I hope all is well with you!
Almost 3 weeks s/p operation. Had severe nausea from anesthesia but resolved in a day. Thankfully my son is a nurse and had rotating help for 1-1/2 weeks. Seeing surgeon tomorrow for suture removal! I feel great! Thank you for the well wishes! 😊
@@loreenheggli438….so it’s now late October 2024, how is everything ?
Has the surgery been successful ?
Extra along phone charger for the hospital and at home
thanks so much for the tips.. my surgery is coming up in a month and I'm trying to manage my expectations...so this was very helpful. thanks
You give me so much courage.
Thank you Jennae for the info. I have my ALIF in two weeks and I am super nervous but your video helped me understand what items I might need for recovery.
You should definitely do a video explaining what was going on before surgery. The amount of pain level you were, what you did before to avoid the surgery, why the Surgeon Decided to go with that type of surgery. It will definitely help all of us That’s going through a type of back problem. Just a tip! but thanks for the videos hope you’re doing great!!!!
I agree I asked that question on a video earlier when she was about to be released but no reply. Curious if she has any updates to these videos? Hopefully everything is going well for you now and Pain Free! Please update us.
@@KBradAdams good luck with that.3 to 4 years out you won't hear from too many patient's.They say the fusions last about 4 or 5 years and the more vertebra they fuse the quicker the remaining disk degenerate.im at 6 years now having major issues with the disc above and some issues with the l5 S1.Thats the two they already fused
@@johnmitchell8925 I had a discectomy in 2017, on the L4/L5, couple of years later it ruptured again. They fused L4/L5 or tried too. I am still in pain when I do anything other than sit on my azz or sleep. I thought from day 1 my L5/S1 was an issue but they never addressed it. I guess my options are get L4/L5 revision surgery and hope it fuses and takes care of it, or do L4/L5 revision and Fuse L5/S1. Just don't want to be looking at more surgeries down the road. I hear some say they get adjacent segment disease like you mentioned but hear others say they never have any issues. And lets don't even get into finding the right surgeon to do it. That has been a huge head ache.
@@johnmitchell8925 damn. Why don’t they offer artificial disk instead? This sucks. But im sick of leg pain and back pain. Gonna ask about Artificial disc instead
I've made a video on my channel specifically about that. Hope it helps!
Thank you for this most helpful video. You have a nice clear, concise voice. You should’ve been a teacher unless you already are. Big smile. I am having a lateral fusion on L34 and 23. I had an anterior fusion on 34 anS one to 24 years ago. I’m hoping this one is a little easier. One thing you didn’t mention that might be helpful is a raised toilet seat. I think that’s a must. Anyway, thanks so much for this information. very kind of you. Good luck to anyone else who’s having this rather intense but ideally healing procedure. 0:04
having surg in April. so appreciate these ideas
This was VERY helpful! I'm a week out from surgery and you've helped build my list for home! Hope you're healed up well!
I’m going in for surgery Thursday/3days not counting today and surgery day! Thank uuu!!!
Thank you for taking the time to share
would love to see another update post surgery. Found your videos very helpful and informative as I'm 3 weeks away from the same surgery. Thanks a bunch for documenting your journey.
helpful presentation
I’m supposed to go for my operation 2 weeks ago but kept postponing it now my pain is hitting the roof. I’m silently DEAD scared. I will be home a alone sometimes inevitably I hope to go to a rehabilitation facility. The pain affecting my feet badly. Getting all the goodies is excellent idea. I’m panicking about the finances of getting the necessary stuff please please pray for me. My pain tolerance level is very low.
You gotta take care of yourself sweet love. I just had emergency surgery. When I went to er first time they made me feel like I was an inconvenience and as if I was just faking the screaming and crying to send me home and tell me it's just sciatica and MRIs are for emergencies only bc I asked several times to please. I was in far too much pain for it to just be sciatica. I couldn't even stand up straight for them to take xrays without screaming. They treated and dismissed me as if that's normal. I don't know what addicts go in there and do but I imagine after crying for a month unable to get about lm sure I looked like a junkie but dammit it was an emergency now I'm living with nerve damage in my groin area. I'm 41 wearing diapers. After I left the er the first time about 2 days later I went numb and then proceeded to wait another 4 days to go to the er. Not to mention both times going was an incredible feat in itself. Nurses and doctors need to be taught some bed side manners. So treating people like an inconvenience for coming in. If you don't like your job. Go home. Had they listened to me the first time I wouldn't be wearing diapers and worrying about my husband leaving me cause of the obvious. I was so healthy. 125lbs 5'3" muscular. Now I'm 100 lbs. My muscles are wasting in my legs. I have cauda equina syndrom. I never heard of it before. Please take care is yourself and make them listen to you! God loves you and so do I. Take care.
used your suggested top 10 things to aid in my XLIF recovery. EXCELLENT list! Thank you so much for sharing :)
Thanks for the tips. I have my surgery in a few weeks. Hope your doing well.
Your list of must haves is PERFECT! I am now four weeks out of L3,4,5,S1 and everything you mentioned would help. Not sure about the nightgown in my case. LOL. Great video, thanks!
Men's version is called a night shirt.
How did urs go was it a fusion? Open back surgery?
@@brittanyobrien7495fusion
Excellent pointers! My BIL is coming to stay with us after his surgery. I just ordered the back scratcher and a shoe horn. I have all the other items. Let me just add that a shoe horn is helpful when later down the road. Much appreciated!
Thanks so much you have been lifesaver with this info.
I've decided to have the surgery in a couple of weeks. I'll be in a wheelchair if I don't. I'm having a lumbar infusion. Amazon has a hip surgery kit that has everything you need for surgery. It helps with everything you need, including a grabber. It cost about 30.00.
You suggested a couple of things like the garbage bag. Thanx for sharing.
How did it go
I had spinal fusion a few years ago and I can confirm that all of these are amazing tips! I wish I had this video to watch before I got it!
Any updates on your Fusion? Kailey? Thanks.
Do you regret it?
@@FromTheHood2TheWoods The only thing I can say is there was no other option for me other than having another discectomy but I felt like I would have re ruptured that one again like Tiger Woods did his second discectomy. Before the surgery I could not walk more than 4 or 5 steps, was in constant pain and could not sleep. I don't mean pain like oh my back hurts. I mean like the worst sciatic pain you can imagine, similar to torture. I have had bad injuries torn both ACL's broken arms things like that and this was so bad. In Tears pain, suicidal where you are in a 10 pain level 24 seven, then when its a little better its a 8 but you only sleep because you have been up 3 days straight from exhaustion. Falling asleep in a bathtub full of ice because the numbness was the only thing that would stop the pain a little. When I awoke from surgery that sciatic pain was 100% gone. I went home that day, I could walk stand sleep, off all pain meds the next day, the pain level was about a 1 from surgery. My body was weak but honestly if I had to do it over again I would have done it but the only difference is I might have talked to a few more surgeons, maybe even considered disc replacement or maybe had them go in from the front to guarantee a solid fusion or higher rate of fusion. I guess if I do get the revision I could end up in more pain or the same and that would suck if I have it, wait another year and end up exactly like I am now, But I guess better than ending up in more pain would suck even worse. Right now I can work sleep live but not like I would like too.. So that is the big question. Am I confident in the surgeon I choose.
@@KBradAdams thank you so much bro. Very helpful to hear others stories!! I been in horrible pain for 10 years, but only if I am bending down or lifting stuff. 10 years ago they said I had a herniated disc but I was scared of surgery so I just tried not to do too much hard work, but the past three years been remodeling this house carrying bags of concrete and basically doing everything myself, it hurts so bad now, if I drive for more than 10 minutes my legs hurt so damn bad, I never knew that back issues cause leg pain, the recent MRI showed mine is basically bone on bone at L5 S1. Been going to appointment after appointment, today the neurosurgeon at Shands Hospital finally told me that I would be getting the surgery mid September, I thought it was just fusion and Alif, where they go in from the front. But she said they are going to go in from the front and flip me over and secure it from the back also so it fuses together. That’s crazy you were in that much pain and then the pain was gone thank God, I can’t imagine how people lived back in the days without this technology, I just want it hurry up and fixed before some stupid virus comes and shuts everything down again, or before Putin starts nuclear war, LOL I want this fixed while it’s possible. Man I was invisible most my life but now at 41 I see that’s not the case anymore. I mowed the lawn other day and now my upper back hurts, hope it’s just muscles sore and not an upper disk. I’m so careful now, I don’t want to get hurt, I don’t wrestle with my son or play basketball or anything risky anymore. I used to ride motorcycles but I’m not even taking that chance. Can’t imagine another crazy injury. 2 years ago got caught in a little explosion had to get skin grafts from the fire. Man that was 6 months of hell. So yea we have to be mindful. But still find things to do so we can enjoy the rest of our lives. Take it easy
@@FromTheHood2TheWoods Wow yours sounds a lot like mine and how it started. Does your back ever go out? That is how mine started about once a year then about every four months.. that feeling where you feel sick to your stomach and can't even walk for a week then you feel ok... over do it then 3 months later bam it goes out again. Then one day it goes from being pretty bad to bed ridden and miserable and constant. The discectomy helped me but sounds like your disc is gone so fusion might be the only way. One thing I might suggest is call this Dr. ua-cam.com/users/hoomanmelamed
and have him read your MRI and Xray or whatever you have. He gave me the best reading of anyone and actually did a surgery on one of the doctors from the show the doctors. Good luck and keep me posted.
I’m 10 months out post op. I was fused T2 to L5. So neck to bum crack. So the back scratcher wasn’t really a option for me. Because of how long and high my fusion goes I won’t ever be able to bend down and touch the ground. So I was sent home with a sock tool. That was a incredible help. All I had to do was put the sock on the tool. Drop it on the floor and slip my foot in. And take the long rope and pull up. As my foot goes into the sock the tool pulls out. Then I do the same on the other. And I got such a laugh when I saw your gripe stick. I was sent home with one. And I ended up buying a bunch so I have one in each room. I drop stuff all the time too. Everyone was annoyed before before I got the additional sticks. And I never thought of the plastic bag to help scoot into the car. I don’t need it anymore but what a great idea. I wish I would of saw this before surgery. Lots of great helpful things were listed.
Oh my gosh... how are you now?? I'm sorry you have to live with your back like this condition :(
what is your mobility like? any tips? thank you and I hope youre doing well
Having ALIF in a few weeks. Thank you for tips. Note - please be sure to check with your surgeon regarding the heating pad. My renowned surgeon does not allow heat first 6 weeks as it increases risk of infection
Heat is not recommended on back after alif . Due to inflammation around nerves . It makes pain worse . Ice is the preferred choice
Thank you Jennae. I’m 3 weeks out of surgery and this was helpful. Please let us know how you’re doing. I didn’t get much info from the hospital so I don’t know what to expect as far as recovery is concerned. Thanks again!
I'm in week two post op L3 S1 TLIF, and believe me you're spot on about that reacher. Lol
I’m having surgery on October 2nd. Fusing C2-t12, I’m so glad I saw your video so I can go ahead and get these items ahead of time. I’m so nervous but so ready.
Thank you again. I'm taking your advice
I had the same thing done in 04. Went in on a Monday 08:00, was home Tuesday 11:30, went back to work the following Monday, 7 days later. However, 4 - 5 months later scar tissue started to invade S1 and the pain started to come back.
Thank you for this video! Very helpful, as I'm facing L5-S1 fusion surgery some time soon.
Have surgery?
Jenna this was helpful. I am about to have the fusion at my l5-s1. I have had two discectomy laminectomy’s, but still problematic, deciding to do as mentioned. Third time is a charm. So I have some experience with the surgery obviously, but I sure am dreading this fusion, but again, you were helpful.
Thank u hope u have recovered
Thanks I’m 4 months old of a fusion T10 to the pelvis. I already have most of the items but the idea of a satin pillow case for May seat cushion is great!
Hi im disc t6
My daughter is gonna be around T2- possible pelvis. How do you feel now months after the surgery? Any tips you could recommend would be truly appreciated. Thank you 😊
Thank you for posting! Would love to hear how you are doing now!
Thanks for the informative sequence of events and recovery. Planning for November and it definitely helps to get the helpful details. I hope you have recovered more.
Hi. I am 3 weeks post surgery…I I can relate to everything you have explained in your videos!
Please post an update as I see you are about 1 year post and I would really appreciate a further update so that I can get an idea of what to expect 🙏
Thank for all you have posted so far…I pray that you are doing well now. Best wishes!
How bout 3 to 4 years
Thanks for your videos. I had Alif/plif 360. Great suggestions
Flushable wipes is a must take.
thank you for sharing j, how are you today after two years? hope you be fine :)
Hola tengo 2 dias de mi cirugía l5 s1 el primer día dolores muy fuertes pero logre caminar el dia 2s me quitaron la sonda o drenaje para orinar. Y camine. El dolor es muy alto incluso con medicamentos y es muy incomodo dormir pero sigo optimistas porque camino con mi andador las chicas de fisioterapia me hacen caminar. Hago mis oraciones me trato de interesar en
Otros escribebiendo mensjes de animo o lellendo sus mensajes ,eso me mantiene positiva. Espero mejorar como tu. La anestesia me dio muchas nauseas y mareos . Jehová mediante seguiré mejorando, tu cara y videos me dan animo para seguir. Espero noticias de ti y tu recuperación pronto
I know this video is 2 years old but I'm 6 weeks post surgery and your tips are helpful. Ie plastic bag. Thanks!
Hi andi! Hows yours? Pain wise?
@@maryanntoroc3552 I am great. Shout out to Dr. John Hamilton Fairfax VA. I have dull post surgical healing but nothing like the sciatic nerve torture I experienced pre surgery.
I've got to make a decision about a fourth spinal op at l4/5. This time a fusion with screws etc, already had laminectomy, ilif fusion and sideways discetomy.... I think a posterior fusion. Great to see how others have/are coping after fusion.
Why so many has it failed or caused more damage?
@@brittanyobrien7495 y have a degenerative spine. The fusion worked well and I was out of pain for a couple of years. Last year I stumbled and blew an L2 facet joint, a synovial cyst developed and I now need decompression surgery. ( The cyst did disappear but is now back)
Hopefully I'll not need another fusion there.
So grateful to my surgeon.
Very good info! I am scheduled Oct 25th for a 4 level fusion. Thanks :)
Such a helpful list! ❤
Thank you, mulltiple fusions watcher!
Thank you for sharing, I am glad that I watched your video it will really help me.
My dr sent me home in essence than 24 hrs and I was on my own w 2 dogs. It was insane. Please take time to recover yall. I'm a yr out and left side is so painful.
Thank you so much for your thoughtful video! Well done! And very helpful.
Thanks for the advice I have one coming up
Thank you so much going to meet with my neurosurgeon soon to see what I need repaired
#4 - great bottle !
Hi Jennae, how is your progress going? You haven’t posted in 4 months. Hoping your recovery is going well. Dave.
Thanks for all the wonderful advice. Surgery in 5 weeks. 😊
Jennae! Thank you so much for making these videos. I watched your whole series and they definitely prepared me for my spinal fusion I just received. You rock. How are you feeling these days? Thanks again and much love to you.
I’ve watched a ton of videos on the subject. Yours was the most helpful so far. My spinal fusion is September 19. Thanks for your tips and hope you are doing well.
Any updates Annette? Did you have the surgery? How are you feeling.
Thanks so much! Nice to see how good you’re doing. Wishing you all the best.
Your an inspiration god bless you 😢
Very helpful information. I'm having it done on Oct 8th
My boyfriend is having this in 5 days His is called a spinal fusion.His spine is curved . I am very anxious
I’m having it oct 2 so in 1 day.
Thanks for your suggestions.😊
Thank you❤
Thank you! So helpful!
Thank you so much for making these videos. I am preparing for the same surgery as you, and your videos boosts my morale for sure . Can you share how soon you were able to return to work, and do any sort of travel? How are you feeling now after a year. Appreciate your videos and wishing you best for continued recovery.
Any updates Vikram?
Amazing video
Thank you very much I was wondering what I needed
Thank you so much!
Thanks for all the videos I am still waiting as Hospital has put it off as wanted stress test for Heart. I have Major groin pain butt very bad pain both thighs and calf’s I was 20 years old as I was going into police at time. Then had motor bike accident not my fault. I can’t walk far now I had fall on escalators 1 year ago then all started again. I now have date for 16 th August 24. I am very scared at 72 I don’t Drink or smoke I hope to God this works. Take care.
Same surgery (ALIF L5-S1) last Feb 23rd.Did you have still pain in your leg 3 weeks after ? Sneezing is tough . Is it harmful for the new disk and screws ? How many time are you allowed to be sit ? is it bad for the surgery to be sit ? I am looking forward to watching your update.... Thx for the videos. very helpful so far !
Thank you. This was very, very helpful.
Thank you!
Thank you.
Hey, what was your recovery time post surgery, im talking before you could exercise etc? Thanks
Thank you for this✨️💖✨️
Thank you 🙏💜🥹
I'm waiting for back surgery doing doing 2 ops in 1 with screws I live alone and I'm scared I'm only 51yrs also had neck done 3yrs ago before covid.
Wish she would post an update, some are nightmares and some are "successful". These progression videos are scary and slmost always start off positive at 6months and 18months then you fast forward 4yyears and pain is back.
Thank you so much , il Will Have suggère like you soon !
Thank you for the tips. I am going to have a Alift in January as well. It’s encouraging to see you doing so well. I would like to know if they stitched you up or used glue to close? I don’t like glue closures. I like the neck pillow and water bottle tip the most. All your tips are helpful.
Did you have the alif if so please let us know how you are now. Thanks
@@KBradAdams I cant believe it worked so well. The sciatica pain is gone, the disk protrusion and pinched nerves in my L5-S1 are gone. I was getting numbness and pain in my tail bone, thats all gone. The only thing left the surgery didn’t cure is the neuropathy in my feet. I just got a spinal cord stimulator to block the pain signals from going to my brain. Its working like a charm. I know I could walk all day, and feel the stress on my feet when i got home, so still prefer to take it easy at the stores and ride the cart when i can, I just don’t want to do anymore damage to those nerves in my feet. They have yet to adjust my strength all the way up, they wanted me to wait a while after surgery. I think the nurse will do it telemedicine this weekend. When i get all healed up, I am going into physical therapy. Over time i expect to become stronger. I lost a lot of muscle laying in bed. It was a A-Lift then they flipped me over on my tummy and put the plate in with the screws, that is called a fusion and PLift. I would not be afraid of getting it fixed. It was worth it to me.
@@MountainAirOrganicBeds so assume to hear!!!
Hi Jennae , how you feel right now post spinal fusion?) i hope you feel so good 😊