Here is my experience with having L5 to S1 spinal fusion surgery. This video is my personal account of how it went, and a little advice through my first week of recovery
Thank you for this recording. I'm a 79 year old woman having surgery this Friday. I want to know about the recovery. I'm so happy to hear that you are doing so well. Thanks too for sharing your faith. God is with me, too. ❤
No lies detected!! I had L5-S1 AlIf on 1/31/24. The constipation was so bad i ended up in the ER and had to get a prescription enema x2. I stopped my pain meds at 2 weeks post, best decision ever. People can't believe I've had surgery . I wish i would have done it sooner!
Just had my fusion on the 27th of March. I needed an enema 3 days in because the pain meds constipated me. The enama didn't work..then someone told me to stop the pain meds for 72 hrs..I did.( Was in pain) But started having a bowel movement. After then I started back with the pain meds just at night.
Thanks for the video. I just had a level one fusion back on Sept. 19th 2022. I'm 41 and this was my 4th the first when I was in 08. The previous 3 surgeries were decompressions. I've also relied on my faith and Jesus Christ! It's been 5 months and I'm finally walking long distances, still not lifting much. I don't want to chance it. They released me from the hospital the day after surgery. My pain has been deep like in my bones. They put 4 screws, 2 rods, and a plate in me. There for awhile I never thought I'd get better but hallelujah here I am. Almost All the pain has been in my legs, hips, and groin. I've been remodeling and roofing since I was 18. It's genetic, my Dad and his 6 siblings have all had at least 2 back surgeries, my sister also had one when she was 26. Just wanted to let everyone who's going through this it DOES get better. Some people just take longer than others to heal. Everyone's different. Oh just wanted to also say they didn't change my dressing or let me change it for 2 weeks after surg. God Bless and God Speed. 🤲🙏✝️👆
I am post op 10 days tomorrow from a decompression and fusion of L4/5. All my pain was in my left leg. For the most part my pain has been gone since my first day post op. I am also a believer in Jesus and for the last 8 months, my faith has been the only thing that has kept me sane.
@janeen millar hallelujah! Praise the Lord! I pray the fusion fixed all that was "broken" and you never have another problem. May Jesus keep a hedge of protection around you. Amen. Good Luck.
I just had surgery 3 weeks ago l5s1 discteomy I'm in absolute agony I have no help I'm on my own so have to cook eat clean I've been bending not realising and just been moving completely wrong was given no aftercare or proper pain management I just keep my faith in the Lord
I wanted to add one more thing. Don’t keep yourself in pain if you have had injury or spinal degeneration. If let go for too long you can run the risk of major nerve damage. So thank you for posting this and sharing your experience plus allowing us to share ours which may help others who worry.
I just had the same surgery last week. I’ve had many surgeries. This was the most painful by far. The recovery was very similar to yours, even to the meds. Each day gets better. Surprised how fast I’ve been able to get up and walk around. Glad it’s done. Wishing you any all others having this procedure a speedy recovery
Thanks for the comment! It is defiantly easy to overwork yourself during recovery. I am going back in for MRI and CT scans on the 20th. I've been a little too active...
I'm having L2 L3 laminectomy an bone fusion. Then attch it to L4 L5 wich was done in 2013.. on May 31this month. Thank you for the movie it was awesome.
After refusing back for almost 20 yrs, i have recently been referred to UC Davis for spinal surgery. I have NO quality of life, i average 3-4 hrs sleep a night, cant stand, sit, walk, or lay down for any real length of time. I don't leave my house unless absolutely necessary. I've underwent countless epidurals, PT, and RFA. Latest MRI showed 2 herniations @ L-4 L-5 & L-5 S-1 both showing nerve impingement. Spinal stenosis, neurogenic claudication, spondylosis, spondylolisthesis, and facet arthropathy. I looked into total joint replacement but the clinical trial is way to far away for me to travel, so fusion it is. I am in so much pain everyday, i often am disappointed I wake up in the morning. I just pray the surgeon i get is the best spinal carpenter in the state and i can finally get my life back.
I have the same diagnosis as you. I'm seeing a surgeon next Thursday. I have no quality of life.. I was hoping you could give me an update after your surgery.
I have a surgeon, two of them actually. I'm scheduled for anterior release/interbody fusion L-4-S-1 lumbar spine; percutaneous vs open posterior spinal decompression/instrumented fusion at levels L-4-S-1. Other levels as indicated. Site-abdomen/back. It's going to be a big surgery taking 6-8hrs. A normal person would be terrified but having to live with debilitating pain for so many years, I see this as a temporary wound that will heal over time and I can get my active life back. I'm drinking a protein drink everyday leading up to my surgery date that's scheduled 04/25/24. Taking vitamin K2+D3, Calcium, Zinc, C, NAC, and liquid collagen in preparation. I will keep you all posted
Thank you for sharing such personal details so honestly. Your video is so helpful to those of us possibly facing this surgery. I am humbled by you sharing such personal information with strangers but you are helping us make this tough decision for surgery.
Good Day….What a wonderful video. Thank you very much. I am going into Hospital next week for the same spinal fusion and you have given me some insight on what to expect. I am very grateful to you. Hope you are fully recovered. God Bless you.. 🙏🏽
Thank you for your response to my questions about the meds. You’re doing so well and will surely have a full recovery. You hiked and walked! Keep up the positive thoughts and strong faith.
Thank you for posting this video blog. I just had L1 thru L4 fused in the first surgery and two weeks later a second surgery to straighten my lumbar spine with alignment rods. You did a very good job describing your experience.
I very much enjoyed your videos documenting your L4-L5 fusion experience in dealing with the pain and your frame of mind. I just had my L4-L5 fusion and S1 bone spur removal done 4 days ago where a minimally invasive approach was used (OLIF procedure for the fusion). Pain definitely was the biggest challenge and I agree with you about being active to accelerate recovery. I hope your results have improved your quality of life and happiness is the norm. Life is good!
Thank you for sharing your surgery and recovery experience. You are very well spoken and explained things very well. I am happy you are doing well. I am just starting my experience. You answered a lot of my questions and some things I didn’t think out. Best of luck to you.
Wow Gage, thank you for sharing your experience with such honesty. My husband is having L4-5 fusion and 5 S1 decompression next month. He is an orthopedic surgeon so he knows so much, too much. Your video really helped me prepare. I hope you are so much better now as it's been a year for you. God bless.
Im 31 years old firefighter and got a total colapse of l5-s1 disk while trying to save an old lady, im gonna do the same surgery soon. Thanks for showing how it went with you because im really scared of this..
I hope your surgery goes well. I am doing well after over 3 months. Expect to be light duty for AT LEAST 1 YEAR. Don't overwork yourself no matter how bad you want to. I'm a busy body, so its very hard for me
I'm a former firefighter in the UK. I did 32 years in the job. I retired in 2006 With the back issues, NOT because of them. I'm seeing the surgeon on Thursday (26th Jan 2023) and get booked in. I too have the same disc issues as yourself. I think I understand your fears. Can I still do the job? What will my life be like? How will my family cope? WILL they cope? But I looked at it as facing a decent job, the fear you feel before going into a BA job, the not knowing how its going to go, what's in there? But the thing is. WE faced them and overcame them! YOU SAVED A LIFE! You, (I did) face bigger things every day at work. Use that experience to get you through it. That's what I'm going to do! I mean we're, (well you still are) firefighters! What could possibly go wrong? 🤔😱😉😂 Stay strong my friend and see you on the other side! 😉👍💪💪
Facing back surgery myself, I appreciated your video about what to expect. As a brother in Christ, I'm especially blessed by your testimony! Thank you sir!
You are 1000% more mobile than I was after my L2-L5 laminectomy! Flying colors! you are doing great!! Stay hydrated, eat well, and keep on keeping on! Love you!
@@TheGaginator How are you doing now? Looks like you posted this video about 2 weeks ago. I am scheduled for ALIF l5s1 in mid Nov. Thanks and hope you are feeling better.
Thanks for this detailed overview. I will have my L4/L5 fusion surgery in a couple of months and am trying to learn from those who have been through it.
6 months out, I am doing ok. I still have pain, but i have not done a good job of resting at all. The biggest benefit for me has been the ability to sleep better.
Thank you for this video. I am waiting to be scheduled for this surgery and I’m too scared to google too much about it because I don’t want to freak myself out. So I am glad to see your positive video! Hope recovery is still going good.
Thanks for sharing your journey as it is very uplifting. I am scheduled in less than a week, 12/8/23 for a TLIF L5-S1 fusion. Not my 1st surgery, however 1st spinal surgery. I have been in constant low back, buttock, and left leg pain and numbing nonstop since May 2023. Pain has been intermittent for years. My anxiety is getting off the charts as I get closer. So glad people have me in their prayers. I know God already knows my outcome and will be with me thru it all. I'm just such a big baby and hate pain😢
Really good job with this!! I’m in the “wait for insurance approval” stage. I think I understand the waking up happy. I’ve been in terrible level 10 constant pain for months, from neck to my toes. I can’t wait to wake up and not have that pain hit me before I’m really awake, before my eyes think about opening. Yes, you’re still hurting (well you were then-9 months ago) BAD, but it’s different and you feel it getting better. I have RA (well you get all of them mostly-arthritis) and I’m older. I had both knees replaced, as soon as you wake up from surgery they have you up and walking, PT week x a week. The doctor told me, “at least you won’t have to do all that”. I’m not worried about “opiate constipation” but I appreciate the heads up, I’ll be prepared for all of that anyway. Hope all is well and you feel better. 😊
Thank you for sharing your experience I’m going to have done May 5, 2023 a Friday as well, I needed to hear from you, the right mind set is perfect you were a sent bless you and your family ❤🙏
Hey thanks so much for doing this! I’m a Christian as well, and I’m about to have this surgery & it’s so helpful to be able to hear from someone who’s already had it. Especially hearing you say you have hope at the end of the video. It’s definitely been a big build up to deciding to do this, and I’m excited to have that hope as well once I’m in recovery too.
Thank you for the comment, tonight I will be praying for your journey and the accuracy and efficiency of the surgeon and staff when your surgery comes. I am going to do another video soon
I'm so glad this video came up. I'm day 5 (same exact surgery) and i'm still in the most excruciating pain. So looking forward to when I can be down this far of the road you are in. By far the most painful one I've had! whooo
Hang in there! I would lie in bed and cry and thinking how I couldn’t wait until after 1 year. It was definitely the hardest surgery ive had and ive had c-section & a hysterectomy but I prayed and trusted God. I got a huge blood clot which slowed down my healing but here i am now 1 yr & 4 months later than i thought would NEVER come. I will be glad to answer any questions or help anyway i can. Sending healing wishes!
@@ConE49 Aww you are so very sweet. I'm so sorry you went through all that with your surgery struggles. I had my first Fusion then 2nd 4 weeks later due to hardware coming out and the second one failed and now so far doctors think I will be permanently disabled from that surgery. Complete nerve damage. Did you have any Nerve issues? And how are you doing to this day? And your right this was the hardest surgery EVER! lots of tears and praying.
I really appreciate you doing this video. I am going to be having the exact same surgery before the end of this year, I hope. This helps me to know what to expect.....honestly.
Thank you for sharing. I only wish you and your family God's blessing. I am 72 years old. From Ontario having to have surgery in two weeks in Sandusky, Ohio due to our crumbling medical system up here. Your information has helped a lot with step by step progressing. Not like going forward to trying to get back home a week after surgery but will let ok for a sitter brace and we have an SUV that I can be a bit more comfortable. Thank you again. 🙏
its been 4.5month post ops... fusion L4/L5.. laser shrink the L2/L3 and L3/L4....i am still not feeling well with my lumbar.. painful and tiredness.... cannot walk far, stand long, sit long, lay long... cant even walk fast.. 😓 how you guys feel..?
@@zizapop I was VERY lucky as my healing is WAY ahead of schedule. I'm three months post op and my surgeon has already cleared me to return to the gym (no squats or back extensions). He believes I will be fully healed within another three months. Yes, I still have some pain, but the 9 is down to about a 2, maybe 4 after physical therapy. I wish you the best and will pray for your full and speedy recovery.
Thanks for this video and I look forward to your six month update. I’ve been suffering from back pain for about 30 years. I’m 71 now and it’s getting unbearable. I’ve always been active in sports until about ten years ago. I’m looking at a three level fusion L3-S1 which is extremely scary because your single level fusion was pretty difficult in itself. Just imagine what a 3-level must be like. And 18 months ago I had a fusion in my neck from which I suffered nerve damage. In any case I’m glad you seem to be mending well and I hope you have a full recovery.
I am ok after 1 year now, but still have pain. Just different pain. Next i am going to try strength training and conditioning since surgery did not give me the result i wanted. I will have you on my prayer list for sure!
Thanks for your answer. Sorry to hear you are still in pain. My surgery last Monday was cancelled during anestecia as they found problems with my Hearts. Sometimes 10 seconds between its beat. So now they are looking into that, before a new surgery is done. I was mentalt ready for the surgery, so I was very dissapointed when I woke up. They said I would have died during surgery, if they had not stopped.
Your video is painful but at the same time hopeful. I had L5-S1 fusion in 2014, an ACDF C5-6 in 2010 and another lumbar fusion, this time L4-5 in a few weeks. I’m terrified, knowing how painful the process is, especially since I never recovered after the L5-S1 fusion. It was due to Spondylolethis, slipped vertebrae, and couldn’t be fixed as the surgeon had hoped for. I’ve been in chronic pain for the past 9 years and need the surgery now for another slipped vertebrae, that has caused an almost complete foot drop, leg weakness and intense pain. I’m so scared knowing what awaits me pain wise but worse is the uncertainty of recovery and length of it. Thank you for sharing your video with us and being so optimistic despite the pain and limitations. I’ve never shared my personal experiences online but might record my upcoming journey to provide others with a-hopefully-positive experience. I wish you Godspeed, a full and complete recovery and may you be able to return to a life without pain and limitations! Thank you 🙏
Thank you so much for this video brother. I am having to make the decision of L4-L5 fusion or just live with the pain. Your honesty of your journey is very much appreciated. Scary decision to have to make. Hope that it has turned out to be best decision for your back.
Thanks for the comment! So far I am so much better. i lived with the pain for 15 years, what finally made me do it was the lack of sleep, and overall attitude because of how bad the pain had gotten.
I'm in ur same point I'm really scared and worried about it and I don't get scared literally ever and I'm terrified do u have the same feel I do where u feel like u need to be pulled apart or stretched out similar feeling ro right before ur knuckles are about to pop
Ugh I lived with my pain for well over 10 years and when I couldn't ride my mountain bike even for a mile I called my orthopedic surgeon and made an appointment. Couldn't take life anymore. Just do it. I did mine winter time so I didn't miss good weather. Just make sure you have a support system and get the grabbers to pick things up if something falls to the ground, they are so helpful.
Thank you for your Journal on your back surgery. I am 71yrs. old and will be going in for back surgery in two weeks. L1 through L5, cages and all that jazz. Your video is great on post surgery journey. Like you said. the surgery should be ok, 4-5 hours. The recovery is the challenge.Great tip on using PT shorts or under-ware. I've had both hips replaced and a rotator cuff tear repaired., all in the last six years. So, it will be interesting to see how this goes. I've had back issues since H.S. (long, long, time ago, in a galaxy far, far, away). I was advised several years back to do the hips first, then look into the back issues when it was just getting to hard to manage. So here I go! Again, what an encouragement your video was, kind of!
Thank you for the great insight about this surgery! Im having back surgery in 2 weeks. Not sure exactly if it's the same as yours until i talk to the neurosurgeon, but this gives me a great idea what to expect. I'm dreading this, but have waited to long and the pain is getting worse! I hope you have healed, God bless!
I just watched this whole video as I’m about 10 weeks away from having my L5-S1 fused at 41 years old. I won’t go into all the diagnoses I have, but I can relate to the mental taxing that back pain and back problems can produce. As a Christian and fellow brother in The Lord, I love how you shared that you had hope for the future despite the pain from the surgery. I saved this video so I can go back and watch it during my recovery and have a reminder of what you experienced knowing that it won’t necessarily be the same in my experience. God bless and I hope you’re doing amazing now!
I just had lumbar fusion on Monday October 16 by Tuesday morning I was walking and doing upstairs with little pain as of today Tuesday 24 one week after op no pain at all from surgery just a littke stiff but wasn't really that bad honestly but well I'm 34 years old
Please pray for me. I’m a backslider and haven’t been living right. I’ve been diagnosed with the same issue and I’ve had additional heart issues as a result of the pain and stress. God bless
Thank you for the video. Gives me the reality of it all as well as hope on the other end. I actually spent 20 years in Midlothian until we moved near College Station to be near the grandkids.
Very strong and powerful testimony, thank you very much. I have been suffering from back issues for the past 5 years and it has been terrible, to the point that I just couldn’t take it anymore. This Friday I will get to find out if the doctor I’m working with is going to allow me to get the surgery. Please pray that he’s willing to do something about it. Thanks again.
Chuck, I'll have you on my prayer list! It never ever hurts to get multiple opinions from doctors in different networks. If more than one person can confirm the same course of action, that's all you need!
Hope you keep progressing. Had my fusion l4 l5 about 12 weeks before you had yours. Doctors used glue and glued edges of wound together. Very nice way to do it, no dressing changes. After a couple weeks of showering, the glue was gone and healing really well. If I may suggest, try some prunes or prune juice daily along with colace and possibly senoket (sp?). Today I worked on an old car I have, used a creeper and was underneath car. I followed instructions and doing quite well. Did not twist or turn until doctor said to ease up on restrictions. Only thing troubling me is surgery dissected some tendons and ligaments, so guess maybe will always have some pain in some positions. You have much to look forward to. I been walking dog up and down hills, hiking some primitive areas. Back at gym lifting light weights, medical permission given to me to do so.
Thanks for your video! I've been looking at lots of things about back surgery on UA-cam. I will be having the same surgery as you in the coming months. I am 64 years, and I had 3 back surgeries at age 12. I've had many surgeries over the years ( 3 hernia repairs, appendectomy, gall bladder removal, thyroidectomy due to cancer, and both hips replaced in 2022 and 2023. Having said this, I am terrified about the back surgery. I don't remember much about my previous back surgeries except I got a staph infection that lingered for a year and they had to clean out my back incision many times. I tolerate pain pretty well, but the thought of recovery from back surgery is frightening. Recovery from the hip replacements was relatively easy and you are right about dilaudid being a magic elixir to get rid to the pain. To make matters worse, I've been diagnosed with something called arachnoiditis which is inflammation of the covering of the spine and central nervous system. I was told that there is no cure and treatment consist of pain management. I'm hoping my back surgery is successful and the recovery relatively smooth. Nothing worse than back pain!
So glad everything went well for you. So scared to do this due to the fact that I have read many wrong stories. We would love an update after these months. God bless!
I've been told it can take up to a year to fully heal . I honestly thought I'd be doing better . I've never taken any pain meds as they make me sick ..I'm hoping when able physio will help..
Thanks for this video, helps us understand all of the short term effects of the surgery. My wife is gonna go through the same surgery as well. How are you doing now? Have you fully recovered? Back to normal like before you injured yourself? Or are there still a couple things that you have to keep an eye on...
I have had back surgery in the past. Laminectomy without fusion L2 L4 L5 in 2013. Now all the problems are back and I am looking at spinal stenosis surgery with fusion. Thank you so much for doing these videos. You are so frank and down to earth. I just love you and wish you the best. I will see how mine goes soon enough. I don't know if I could do a video, but I am so grateful for you and these videos. The fact that you are a Christian and believe in Jesus and that gives you hope, gives me hope as well. I believe in Jesus as well. You are in my prayers. God bless you
Just remember, Bad things happen to good people and Good things happen to bad people. It is sin in the world. If we could escape all the pain and suffering by becoming a Christian, then everyone would want to be one. Everyone goes through some sort of trials in their lives. My L3-L5 is really really bad for years. Had a boston Scientific stimulator implanted Dec. 3, 2007 and had to retire from the forestry service because of all the years on a bulldozer destroying my lower back. I was an adrenaline junkie and I could not give it up and become a dispatcher/secretary. I hate paperwork. Now at 66, I've been having bad problems and muscle spasms and charlie horses in both hips for the past 6 months. I am terrified to have this surgery of a laminectomy or fusion and they say it comes back again after 2-8 years. I suffered so much in the early 2000's until 2011 when I lost 135 pounds and I was pain free for 8 years. But the past 3 years dealing with my aling wife who is older than me is so stressful and it is difficult to stay on the strict vegan diet I was on and gained 65 pounds in the past 3 years. Any extra weight you put on will add to or cause you pain. I didn't see or hear anyone mention getting a neurostimulator implanted for the pain. They work really great, but you have to really crank them up when the pain is really bad and will lock up your muscle like a tens unit. I may need a new one again if this one goes broke. I pray that everything works out for the best for all of you and consider an implant first. There are 3 different companies who make them. Boston scientific, Saint Jude and Medtronics are the top 3. But there are others too. As of 2020, there are nine commonly used SCS platforms made by four manufacturers including four SCS units from Abbott, three from Boston Scientific, and one each from Medtronic and Nevro.
@@JohnSmith-uy7sv pain stimulators are great and usually as a last resort. Docs want the spine to be secure and nerves to be clear down the spine first. If still a problem after the surgeries, then consider a pain stimulator.
I'm about to have l4/l5 spinal fusion, I'm a believer, also living in Dallas, but I gotta admit, I am a tad bit uneasy, praying for you expeditious and full recovery man.
Thank you so very much! I go 7/14 to meet the neurosurgeon. I've put this off for a few years, but can't any longer. I'm terrified. I am a single mom, have a small farm, and work 2 jobs. Thank you so much for this. It has helped me with the whole reality.
Thank you very much for making this video. Lots of very accurate information. Everybody heals differently. I had my surgery just shy of a month ago. I could tell everybody my entire story. But the doctors gave me the thumbs up that the surgery went well, and it just have to be careful and try not to lift anything that weighs more than a gallon of milk. The one thing I really do agree with you about is being constipated. And the doctors were equally concerned. They literally would not discharge me from the hospital until I had a healthy bowel movement. I had no problems going number one. When I told the doctor that I haven’t made a Dookie in one week, he was extremely concerned. After the surgery my pain was really bad so I had to hit the call button for a nurse to come and help me go to and from the bathroom. If you go poop, don’t flush the toilet. Apparently either the doctor or the nurses wanted to do make sure. Other than that, I really appreciate this video cause I’m recovering. It’s been about a month and I still use a walker. Not necessarily because I have to it’s more so psychological because before I had my surgery I was at a high risk of falling. (I’m 50 years old). I use the walker as “insurance”. I just don’t want to fall down and screw up my back again until it’s completely healed. My doctor said I really have to hit something hard because the titanium screws in my lumbar are extremely strong. Either way, thank you for the video. I watched it from beginning to end. And I sent it to my cousin she is gonna have to have the same surgery so she’s in the process of learning.
Hi Gage, thank you for this video. So helpful. I have had a back injury that I have suffered with for 7 years from an old sports injury. I'm told I need a fusion but I have put it off for as long as I can. About at the end of the rope I'm afraid. How are you doing now? You seem like a great guy. I gonna keep YOU on MY prayer list! God Bless you brother.
Thank you for the kind words!! I am doing ok, but still have pain. I can sleep now which is good. Maybe I was much too active during recovery? I didn't do anything crazy. Just had my 1 year checkup and they said everything looks great in my spine, so they don't know why it still hurts. The past year I have been given some opportunities to grow in my faith, and do some things I would have always been to "busy" for before. I don't regret the surgery, and many people have noted great success.
Thank you so much for sharing I’m having this same surgery in a couple of weeks. You really did answer a lot of my questions. How do you feel now? Are you able to bend?
Hey there! I am ok, but still a substantial amount of paint. I think the doctors misdiagnosed my case unfortunately. I can bend and do all normal tasks. Sitting strait is painful still, but reclining is just fine. Makes driving difficult unless im in the right vehicle, and have heated seats
I go tomorrow morning and have my surgery. I'm 41 and have gotten to the point I can't do anything I enjoy anymore. I pray this helps. I greatly appreciate the end where you said you have hope. That makes me have more hope and not be as afraid of this. Thanks man!
@Dime333 i was in surgery for 5 hours. It's almost been 2months, and I honestly can't complain. I feel better than ever. The hard part is remembering that I have a lot of restrictions.
Hi Angela I like to ask as I’m very hesitate and scare have surgery at the same level as yours With fusion you be able to bend normal after said month of the surgery or no I appreciate your answer And wish you well
Thank you for making this video. I have had 2 failed discectomies, and now I'm waiting for scheduling the spinal fusion. I've been really down wondering if the fusion will help, and your video has been very uplifting!
I am now 10 days out. First few days after were as hard as anything I’ve been thru. As I woke up at home beginning day 4, my pain level had become manageable. Mine was L4-5. Thanks for sharing yours.
I am glad I stuck around until the end of this to learn you're a follower of Jesus Christ. I have been struggling with bulging disc pain on the nerve for ten years now without pain meds until now. You've given me just what I needed to hear because the most recent injury made life unbearable and started affecting my confidence in God's help. Thank you
Very nice information, thanks for sharing. If you could have added before and after MRI/X- ray reports in the video would have been nice just to see how they have placed the rods, fusion stuff etc., But this video is really inspiring.
You’re an inspiration to a 76 year old about to have same fusion as you had. Thanks for your honesty and being comfortable with all the advice-so helpful! You are a great parent and husband . What was muscle relaxant (never used any myself) and what was second pain med after norco, which I was on first day of laminotomy surgery, which didn’t fully relieve pressure on the disc. Thanks again!
Thank you for the kind words :) The muscle relaxer that they prescribed to me was Methocarbamol.I didnt like the way it made me feel for sure. A muscle relaxer that works for me without side effects is Tizanidine. The pain medicine that worked well for me at the hospital was Dilaudid. I know little to nothing about medication, so this is not advice, just stating my experience. God has been so good to me, I was just able to complete a major life goal hike last week in Oregon (video posted), and I walked over 50 miles the week before!!
@@JohnSmith-uy7sv everyone is different, but usually docs like the frame to be fixed and nerves to be free down the spinal canal before doing a pain stimulator.
Just know it will be harder and take longer to recover than people in their 30's, I'm in my 60's just had the same surgery as this guy, I have had issues all my life with sciatic pain, I threw up for 14 hours after the surgery, never used the dilaudid pump, the only thing I could tolerate was 5mgs of IR Oxycodone with a dissolvable nausea medication, it has been two months and I still have sciatic pain but it is gradually getting better, the surgeon had to do a lot of bone removal from spurs, I had blown my L5/S1 disc when I was 13 and lived with it but I started having other disc herniate and it got to the point of nothing helping not even steroid injections, so I caved and had the surgery.
I bet you got sick because you might have been setting up taking the pain meds. I’m having back surgery 11/21/23, nervous but this is helping me know what to expect!! I have years of medical experience but it’s different when it’s you, you know. Thanks for this information!!
In 1978 I was fused T6 to L2, to correct scoliosis, I grew nearly 3 inches in 7 1/2 hours. Five years ago they fused C5 to C7 to relieve the pressure on my spinal cord. I have had zero problems with both fusions. The whole secret to a good outcome is doing exactly what your doctor tells you, no more, no less. And physical therapy is key for a successful recovery. I have 14 fused vertebrae and no problems.
I had scoliosis surgery in 2009 now have lumbar radiculpathy possibly degeneration of l5 S1so possibly need fusion for that which is adjacent segment syndrome also have nerve pain coming from around C6 C7 now and considering to do Acdf because cervical radiculopathy is very painful too.
I having my 2nd surgery. My screws and brace came loose after a fall within 6 mos post surgery. Looking forward to it, no mor walking wonky or hurting. Hope your surgery goes well. My first was great.
Hey, thanks for documenting this. I didn't hear you talk about it - were you on any pain management meds prior to decision for surgery? I've been on morphine and norco for over a decade, and I'm really concerned about how the recovery would be since my body is so accustomed to narcotics by now...
I refused to take any medication before hand and just live with the pain. I cannot imagine taking Norco for a decade. The side effects are awful for me even though it did the best for pain after surgery. I quit taking it very quickly because of how bad the constipation was. Some people don't have that issue with opiodes, and some do.
You probably will not see this as it's been a long time but I'm having this same surgery Jan 8 2024. I too am a believer in Jesus Christ and have had my reservations about doing this but after hearing you, I also feel "hope". I appreciated that you did not sugar coat anything, explained the pain you were in that first week and prayerfully now, you are completely pain free. Thanks so much for sharing. You've been a confirmation to me that it's the right thing. Blessings.
Thank you… I am 4 weeks post op and 72 years old. I am walking 1 1/2 per day on a level floor. The pain gets intense in the late afternoon. I believe it’s because as you mentioned… sitting is the hardest part. I never had lower back pain until someone was texting and hit us at a stop position. I can say there is still pain as it should be but it’s a different pain and gets better everyday. Blessed and so happy I had the L4-L5 fusion. At my age I thought twice about it but so glad I trusted my doctor and Tulane Hospital.
fantastic video. i will be going for this surgery in a month and terrified of the recovery. a week of the worst pain in my life is better that feeling any pain forever. curious how you are doing now after a year or so. how is the bending and moving around to fix cars? plumber here and hoping i can still do the same work.
Thank you brother in Christ for sharing your surgery experience. I am having this very same surgery at the end of April. I pray for the touch of Jesus in your recovery and complete healing. Amen
Had the same surgery. I was in surgery for 51/2 hours. Open tlif. In the hospital for 5 days. My pain was similar to yours. Feeling really good, week 7. Maybe too good. I actually have to slow down some. I am also a born again Christian. Many prayers and Gods wonderful and mighty strength helped me immensely!!!
Thanks bro I’m 58 and I’ve been putting up with spongilolithesis slipped vertebra L5 since I was 12 I refused to let them fuse way back then but it’s catching up with me now waiting for new results on mri but we’re at the point they need to do something about it. Classed as a workaholic just had triple bypass two years ago and dealing with compressed nerves in the neck going to the arms from tilting my head to insert the breathing tube. Had the nerves burnt in my neck from c2thru c7 to disconnect the pain signal to the brain. Super painful. Your video definitely got my attention. Any new updates please upload.
I received the good news I too have to go through the wonderful world of l4 l5 fusion. I have been like you hesitating the thought of doing it. However I have left sciatica pain that socks. I've tried PT chiropractor, decompression treatment, Medicine and massage. With no luck. So I'm calling to schedule Monday. Thanks for your thoughts as they were from a realistic point. Heal up God Bless
I hope that your situation gets better, and if you choose surgery, I pray a speedy recovery! I have been wanting to do a follow up video. I'll post one soon now that I have started PT.
6th day of my L3 fracture fixation surgery through pedicle screw fixation, and I must say this my first UA-cam comment, and every thing this guy is telling I have experienced and it’s a big hope that one day I will be able walk without walker and pursue my life like I used to before the accident
I've had a different experience so far. I had the surgery two mornings ago. I didn't sleep until the operation. I have had zero pain the entire time. I am stiff in the low back and I do feel pressure of some sort when I move too much. I feel actually better than when I went in. I had a double laminectomy of l4/l5 - I went numb and my calves and right glute went dead on me a couple months ago. I had sciatica constantly getting worse for a year and a half prior to that. I got two rounds of cortisone shots the first helped my left side and then I had some kind of freak onset of sciatica on my right leg (prior it had no issue just left leg) that took me to my knees. I had a second shot and that did not help much. I'm pretty sure my S1 got impinged since it is responsible for bottom of feet numbness and calves. My right leg even felt dead. Now after surgery I can already slightly flex my right calf and my left calf is a lot better. My numbness is still there but quite a bit better. I am amazed I have had zero low back pain. I am on hydrocodone and still on gabapentin. This surgery even fixed my issue with peeing (I had weird pressure when peeing especially if sitting down). Pretty happy so far I really hope I get 100% of my calves back since I can't walk 100% right yet. I am walking with my back upright finally though.
Thank you for this video. Im a christian also, ive been extremely nervous about making this decision. My surgeon just told me yesterday he strongly suggests i take this surgery. I have a really bad case of spinal stenosis and 2 lumbar discs slipping. I will follow your recovery Blessings Brother Praying you recover quickly. 🙏
I am scheduled for an S1/L5 and L5/L4 MIS TLIF Fusion on February 16 of 2023. He will be approaching it from a minimally invasive technique that I pray will make things easier in the recovery. I had years of typical back pain from wear and tear over the years but was always able to recover. In March of 2021, I was in a car accident that took everything over the top! After battling two years of every type of treatment, we found that both L5 and L4 has bilateral pars defect causing instability in the spine and now I feel it’s time to address this and work on healing in a different, positive way. Your transparency helps a lot with it not only being the good or the bad but both. I like especially how you ended with “hope and your spiritual belief”! That is exactly what I am surrendering too that all will be well and this will go smooth with a solid recovery. I did have one question? Did you have a catheter? I don’t hear much about that? Hope you are doing well now and feeling better than you have in years! I am not expecting to be 100 percent but 90 percent surely will beat the 40 percent I live with daily.
Thank you for the comment! I have has good success, and it's all a gift from God. During my back surgery there was a catheter, but it was already pulled by the time I woke up. I dont remember pain from it at all, but i do remember having a hard time going pee due to alot of gas build up. I was unable to pee very well or at all sometimes in the bed like they wanted. I had to get up and use the toilet instead. This was pretty difficult, but aided in my recovery i think having to get up and move around more often.
I wish you good luck. I hear the minimally invasive endoscopy is the way to go. You have less incisions and all the “cutting” is done inside. I’m afraid I’m up for surgery in February also. I see the surgeon soon. This video answered of lot of my questions and brought up things I didn’t think of. Take good care.
@@Teresa-K Thank you dear. I'll say a prayer for you and please ask all the questions. Sometimes we get intimidated in front of doctors. From all my research the most important part is post-surgery. How well you keep your body your first 2-3 months for the vertebrae's to naturally infuse, so no mobility is lost or little. Let me know what your surgeon will say. I see mine sometime end of next month. Good luck!
Thank you so much, I just found your video, I will have the same surgery on the November 24th 2023, Thanks for the warning of the poop, the little pain killer im on now wrecked my system, Im using Micro Bio pills , I hope it will help, Ive been praying to God on what I need to do and the The doctor I saw today was open by chance I got to see him, I thank god for that chance and look forward to ending my back pain x
I have degenerative disc disease in my back and have already had a discectomy back in 2015 on L5-S1. I am looking now at T10 through my Lumbar section for fusion and am trying to decide if I should have it or try PT or pain therapy. I am leaning towards surgery because anything else IMO is just masking the underlying problem. your journey while not as severe as what I am looking at helps in whether I go through with it or not. Thank you for sharing not just your experience but also your faith. Much appreciated.
Hello. I'm glad I found your video. I had my first spine surgery on Nov 2022 the day before my ski accident. It was so painful after that surgery. I had 8 screws, 4 on each side and 2 rods. Anyhow, nobody told me about NO BLT - bend, lift, twist. Therfore after 2 weeks I had 2 screws that get loosen. Painful experience. I was able to sleep only on my left side and on my back, because on my right side I had 8 broken ribs and the shoulder. Then two months later I had the second surgery with more screws. I vomited for almost 20h after that surgery. I think the anesthesia was causing me a lot of problems. Then constipation. Having a poop was my go home ticket, so I tried everything I could, until it was too much, but didn't say anything because I wanted to go home. This time I had 29 staples for 2 weeks. I didn't have much movement for 6 weeks because of the pain from spine and ribs. Tomorrow I'll have my 6 week post op follow up appointment. I still take pain medication only night time, because I need to rest. I had another surgery to fix my right clavicula, which means a plate with 6 screws. I feel like "Home Depot" 😕 I walk every day, few times per day. I don't give up and I have faith that I'll be back to skiing, bec I love it so much. I have a question please: you mentioned something about bone stimulator. What exactly is that? And how did you use it? Thanks for sharing your story
Thanks for sharing your story, you will be on my prayer list. Sounds like you had quite an ordeal! Safe daily movement is the key to recovery for sure. I am guilty of overdoing it during recovery. The bone growth stimulator works like a metal detector, creating magnetic field pulses. It was prescribed by my surgeon. I can't say if it has any positive affects, but research shows it may.
@@TheGaginator thank you. I'm so glad I found your video. Tomorrow is my appointment and right now I feel pain all over my spine. I have to stop thinking about the visit and pray for better health and life. Please God, help us all!
I’m going in for fusion surgery tomorrow. Thank you for your video. It’s honest and appreciated. I’m 63 , fit and healthy but I’m so concerned. Tell me about how you get on and off toilet? What about physical therapy at home? Is there anything I should buy for my home? Also out dilaudid makes me throw up. 😢what other pain meds can you suggest? I’m nervously asking. My husband is older and my house is a mess. Does it matter ? Trying to let go of my shower and hair washe daily obsession. What should I bring to hospital ? Any tricks or things you wish you did differently? Thank you so much for this. It’s 3 am. Tomorrow is my day. Good luck sir to you and your family .😊
Thank you for this recording. I'm a 79 year old woman having surgery this Friday. I want to know about the recovery. I'm so happy to hear that you are doing so well. Thanks too for sharing your faith. God is with me, too. ❤
No lies detected!! I had L5-S1 AlIf on 1/31/24. The constipation was so bad i ended up in the ER and had to get a prescription enema x2. I stopped my pain meds at 2 weeks post, best decision ever. People can't believe I've had surgery . I wish i would have done it sooner!
Just had my fusion on the 27th of March. I needed an enema 3 days in because the pain meds constipated me. The enama didn't work..then someone told me to stop the pain meds for 72 hrs..I did.( Was in pain) But started having a bowel movement. After then I started back with the pain meds just at night.
I have ALIF 2 stage may 28 and 30 .. I'm so nervous.
Had the same thing I stop pain meds but the surgery was the best thing I did no more pain meds
Thanks for the video. I just had a level one fusion back on Sept. 19th 2022. I'm 41 and this was my 4th the first when I was in 08. The previous 3 surgeries were decompressions. I've also relied on my faith and Jesus Christ! It's been 5 months and I'm finally walking long distances, still not lifting much. I don't want to chance it. They released me from the hospital the day after surgery. My pain has been deep like in my bones. They put 4 screws, 2 rods, and a plate in me. There for awhile I never thought I'd get better but hallelujah here I am. Almost All the pain has been in my legs, hips, and groin. I've been remodeling and roofing since I was 18. It's genetic, my Dad and his 6 siblings have all had at least 2 back surgeries, my sister also had one when she was 26. Just wanted to let everyone who's going through this it DOES get better. Some people just take longer than others to heal. Everyone's different. Oh just wanted to also say they didn't change my dressing or let me change it for 2 weeks after surg. God Bless and God Speed. 🤲🙏✝️👆
Thank you so much for this comment of good new and hope!
I am post op 10 days tomorrow from a decompression and fusion of L4/5. All my pain was in my left leg. For the most part my pain has been gone since my first day post op. I am also a believer in Jesus and for the last 8 months, my faith has been the only thing that has kept me sane.
@janeen millar hallelujah! Praise the Lord! I pray the fusion fixed all that was "broken" and you never have another problem. May Jesus keep a hedge of protection around you. Amen. Good Luck.
I just had surgery 3 weeks ago l5s1 discteomy I'm in absolute agony I have no help I'm on my own so have to cook eat clean I've been bending not realising and just been moving completely wrong was given no aftercare or proper pain management I just keep my faith in the Lord
If anything my nerve pain has got worse I'm worried surgery hasn't worked
I wanted to add one more thing. Don’t keep yourself in pain if you have had injury or spinal degeneration. If let go for too long you can run the risk of major nerve damage. So thank you for posting this and sharing your experience plus allowing us to share ours which may help others who worry.
I just had the same surgery last week. I’ve had many surgeries. This was the most painful by far.
The recovery was very similar to yours, even to the meds. Each day gets better. Surprised how fast I’ve been able to get up and walk around. Glad it’s done. Wishing you any all others having this procedure a speedy recovery
Praying for you sister. May you make full recovery. What exactly was your surgery?
Wanda glad yours went well . I am getting L2 S1 done minimal invasive on June 25th .
Thanks for the comment! It is defiantly easy to overwork yourself during recovery. I am going back in for MRI and CT scans on the 20th. I've been a little too active...
I'm having L2 L3 laminectomy an bone fusion. Then attch it to L4 L5 wich was done in 2013.. on May 31this month. Thank you for the movie it was awesome.
hi Wanda, how are you doing? I'm having the surgery on June 12.
Day 5 of recovery here. Your video really helped me. Hearing someone else’s story brought me comfort. Thank you.
After refusing back for almost 20 yrs, i have recently been referred to UC Davis for spinal surgery. I have NO quality of life, i average 3-4 hrs sleep a night, cant stand, sit, walk, or lay down for any real length of time. I don't leave my house unless absolutely necessary. I've underwent countless epidurals, PT, and RFA. Latest MRI showed 2 herniations @ L-4 L-5 & L-5 S-1 both showing nerve impingement. Spinal stenosis, neurogenic claudication, spondylosis, spondylolisthesis, and facet arthropathy. I looked into total joint replacement but the clinical trial is way to far away for me to travel, so fusion it is. I am in so much pain everyday, i often am disappointed I wake up in the morning. I just pray the surgeon i get is the best spinal carpenter in the state and i can finally get my life back.
After surgery any spasms? I get them after physical therapy.
I have the same diagnosis as you. I'm seeing a surgeon next Thursday. I have no quality of life.. I was hoping you could give me an update after your surgery.
Praying for you!
I have a surgeon, two of them actually. I'm scheduled for anterior release/interbody fusion L-4-S-1 lumbar spine; percutaneous vs open posterior spinal decompression/instrumented fusion at levels L-4-S-1. Other levels as indicated. Site-abdomen/back. It's going to be a big surgery taking 6-8hrs. A normal person would be terrified but having to live with debilitating pain for so many years, I see this as a temporary wound that will heal over time and I can get my active life back. I'm drinking a protein drink everyday leading up to my surgery date that's scheduled 04/25/24. Taking vitamin K2+D3, Calcium, Zinc, C, NAC, and liquid collagen in preparation. I will keep you all posted
Thank you for sharing such personal details so honestly. Your video is so helpful to those of us possibly facing this surgery. I am humbled by you sharing such personal information with strangers but you are helping us make this tough decision for surgery.
Very thankful for you video! Praying that your surgery was completely successful!
Good Day….What a wonderful video. Thank you very much. I am going into Hospital next week for the same spinal fusion and you have given me some insight on what to expect. I am very grateful to you. Hope you are fully recovered. God Bless you.. 🙏🏽
Thank you for your response to my questions about the meds. You’re doing so well and will surely have a full recovery. You hiked and walked! Keep up the positive thoughts and strong faith.
Thank you so much!
You're Awesome! Thx for taking the time to inform us. Valuable Information.
Thank you for posting this video blog. I just had L1 thru L4 fused in the first surgery and two weeks later a second surgery to straighten my lumbar spine with alignment rods. You did a very good job describing your experience.
I very much enjoyed your videos documenting your L4-L5 fusion experience in dealing with the pain and your frame of mind. I just had my L4-L5 fusion and S1 bone spur removal done 4 days ago where a minimally invasive approach was used (OLIF procedure for the fusion). Pain definitely was the biggest challenge and I agree with you about being active to accelerate recovery. I hope your results have improved your quality of life and happiness is the norm. Life is good!
Thank you for sharing your surgery and recovery experience. You are very well spoken and explained things very well. I am happy you are doing well. I am just starting my experience. You answered a lot of my questions and some things I didn’t think out. Best of luck to you.
Thank you for the kind words! I hope your journey goes well! I will be doing an update video soon
Wow Gage, thank you for sharing your experience with such honesty. My husband is having L4-5 fusion and 5 S1 decompression next month. He is an orthopedic surgeon so he knows so much, too much. Your video really helped me prepare. I hope you are so much better now as it's been a year for you. God bless.
Im 31 years old firefighter and got a total colapse of l5-s1 disk while trying to save an old lady, im gonna do the same surgery soon. Thanks for showing how it went with you because im really scared of this..
I hope your surgery goes well. I am doing well after over 3 months. Expect to be light duty for AT LEAST 1 YEAR. Don't overwork yourself no matter how bad you want to. I'm a busy body, so its very hard for me
How are you now
Praying for you. Same here total collapse at l5-S1. Having the anterior and posterior surgery February 2023.
I'm a former firefighter in the UK. I did 32 years in the job. I retired in 2006 With the back issues, NOT because of them. I'm seeing the surgeon on Thursday (26th Jan 2023) and get booked in. I too have the same disc issues as yourself. I think I understand your fears. Can I still do the job? What will my life be like? How will my family cope? WILL they cope? But I looked at it as facing a decent job, the fear you feel before going into a BA job, the not knowing how its going to go, what's in there? But the thing is. WE faced them and overcame them! YOU SAVED A LIFE! You, (I did) face bigger things every day at work. Use that experience to get you through it. That's what I'm going to do! I mean we're, (well you still are) firefighters! What could possibly go wrong? 🤔😱😉😂 Stay strong my friend and see you on the other side! 😉👍💪💪
@@stetomlinson3146 same here EMS and firefighter, hopping that I can still wear an SCBA after this ,
I pray you continue to have a speedy recovery!
Thank you so much
Praying for a speedy recovery bother
Thank you so much!
Facing back surgery myself, I appreciated your video about what to expect. As a brother in Christ, I'm especially blessed by your testimony! Thank you sir!
Thank you for the kind words! I'll have you on my prayer list. My advice is to get several opinions from different places before comiting to anything.
You are 1000% more mobile than I was after my L2-L5 laminectomy! Flying colors! you are doing great!! Stay hydrated, eat well, and keep on keeping on! Love you!
Thank you! I am so thankful for how things are going.
@@TheGaginator How are you doing now? Looks like you posted this video about 2 weeks ago. I am scheduled for ALIF l5s1 in mid Nov. Thanks and hope you are feeling better.
@@maxbelski hello. How did your surgery go. Hope and pray that it went good for you.. God bless. Take care..Stitch
Thanks for this detailed overview. I will have my L4/L5 fusion surgery in a couple of months and am trying to learn from those who have been through it.
6 months out, I am doing ok. I still have pain, but i have not done a good job of resting at all. The biggest benefit for me has been the ability to sleep better.
Thank you for this video. I am waiting to be scheduled for this surgery and I’m too scared to google too much about it because I don’t want to freak myself out. So I am glad to see your positive video! Hope recovery is still going good.
Thanks for the comment Amie! I'll add you to my prayer list.
Thanks for sharing your journey as it is very uplifting. I am scheduled in less than a week, 12/8/23 for a TLIF L5-S1 fusion. Not my 1st surgery, however 1st spinal surgery. I have been in constant low back, buttock, and left leg pain and numbing nonstop since May 2023. Pain has been intermittent for years. My anxiety is getting off the charts as I get closer. So glad people have me in their prayers. I know God already knows my outcome and will be with me thru it all. I'm just such a big baby and hate pain😢
Really good job with this!!
I’m in the “wait for insurance approval” stage. I think I understand the waking up happy. I’ve been in terrible level 10 constant pain for months, from neck to my toes. I can’t wait to wake up and not have that pain hit me before I’m really awake, before my eyes think about opening. Yes, you’re still hurting (well you were then-9 months ago) BAD, but it’s different and you feel it getting better.
I have RA (well you get all of them mostly-arthritis) and I’m older. I had both knees replaced, as soon as you wake up from surgery they have you up and walking, PT week x a week. The doctor told me, “at least you won’t have to do all that”.
I’m not worried about “opiate constipation” but I appreciate the heads up, I’ll be prepared for all of that anyway.
Hope all is well and you feel better. 😊
Good info, and thank you for the kind words. I will have you on my prayer list!
Thank you so much for sharing!! I have my surgery next month. Your recovery is amazing!! 🙏
Thank you for the comment, I'll have you on my prayer list!
@@TheGaginator Thank you 😊
Great documentary video of your experience, bro. Thank you 🙏 🙏🙏
Thank you for the comment and kind words!
Thank you for sharing your experience I’m going to have done May 5, 2023 a Friday as well, I needed to hear from you, the right mind set is perfect you were a sent bless you and your family ❤🙏
I'll be praying for you!
Hey thanks so much for doing this! I’m a Christian as well, and I’m about to have this surgery & it’s so helpful to be able to hear from someone who’s already had it. Especially hearing you say you have hope at the end of the video. It’s definitely been a big build up to deciding to do this, and I’m excited to have that hope as well once I’m in recovery too.
Thank you for the comment, tonight I will be praying for your journey and the accuracy and efficiency of the surgeon and staff when your surgery comes. I am going to do another video soon
I'm so glad this video came up. I'm day 5 (same exact surgery) and i'm still in the most excruciating pain. So looking forward to when I can be down this far of the road you are in. By far the most painful one I've had! whooo
Thanks for the comment and kind words, You'll be on my prayer list!
@@TheGaginator 🙌 So very kind of you. Thank you!
Hang in there! I would lie in bed and cry and thinking how I couldn’t wait until after 1 year. It was definitely the hardest surgery ive had and ive had c-section & a hysterectomy but I prayed and trusted God. I got a huge blood clot which slowed down my healing but here i am now 1 yr & 4 months later than i thought would NEVER come. I will be glad to answer any questions or help anyway i can. Sending healing wishes!
@@ConE49 Aww you are so very sweet. I'm so sorry you went through all that with your surgery struggles. I had my first Fusion then 2nd 4 weeks later due to hardware coming out and the second one failed and now so far doctors think I will be permanently disabled from that surgery. Complete nerve damage. Did you have any Nerve issues? And how are you doing to this day? And your right this was the hardest surgery EVER! lots of tears and praying.
I really appreciate you doing this video. I am going to be having the exact same surgery before the end of this year, I hope. This helps me to know what to expect.....honestly.
Thank you for sharing. I only wish you and your family God's blessing. I am 72 years old. From Ontario having to have surgery in two weeks in Sandusky, Ohio due to our crumbling medical system up here. Your information has helped a lot with step by step progressing. Not like going forward to trying to get back home a week after surgery but will let ok for a sitter brace and we have an SUV that I can be a bit more comfortable. Thank you again. 🙏
Thanks for the comment, wishing you the best!
Thank you for the video, Gage! I'm having an L4 to S1 fusion next month after 20 years of chronic pain. Now I know what to expect. God Bless you.
Thank you for the kind words, you will be in my prayers for successful surgery and speedy recovery!
I’m in the same boat with ALIF fusion of my L4-L5-S1 coming up on July 19. Good luck to you!
@@jasonjones6208 Same to you. I will be praying for both of us!
its been 4.5month post ops... fusion L4/L5.. laser shrink the L2/L3 and L3/L4....i am still not feeling well with my lumbar.. painful and tiredness.... cannot walk far, stand long, sit long, lay long... cant even walk fast.. 😓 how you guys feel..?
@@zizapop I was VERY lucky as my healing is WAY ahead of schedule. I'm three months post op and my surgeon has already cleared me to return to the gym (no squats or back extensions). He believes I will be fully healed within another three months. Yes, I still have some pain, but the 9 is down to about a 2, maybe 4 after physical therapy.
I wish you the best and will pray for your full and speedy recovery.
Thank you. L4 and 5 surgery pending and this real episode helped a lot!
Thanks for this video and I look forward to your six month update. I’ve been suffering from back pain for about 30 years. I’m 71 now and it’s getting unbearable. I’ve always been active in sports until about ten years ago. I’m looking at a three level fusion L3-S1 which is extremely scary because your single level fusion was pretty difficult in itself. Just imagine what a 3-level must be like. And 18 months ago I had a fusion in my neck from which I suffered nerve damage.
In any case I’m glad you seem to be mending well and I hope you have a full recovery.
I am having the same surgery as you in ten days time. Not looking forward to it at all, but hope the result will be good.
I am ok after 1 year now, but still have pain. Just different pain. Next i am going to try strength training and conditioning since surgery did not give me the result i wanted. I will have you on my prayer list for sure!
Thanks for your answer. Sorry to hear you are still in pain. My surgery last Monday was cancelled during anestecia as they found problems with my Hearts. Sometimes 10 seconds between its beat. So now they are looking into that, before a new surgery is done. I was mentalt ready for the surgery, so I was very dissapointed when I woke up. They said I would have died during surgery, if they had not stopped.
Your video is painful but at the same time hopeful. I had L5-S1 fusion in 2014, an ACDF C5-6 in 2010 and another lumbar fusion, this time L4-5 in a few weeks. I’m terrified, knowing how painful the process is, especially since I never recovered after the L5-S1 fusion. It was due to Spondylolethis, slipped vertebrae, and couldn’t be fixed as the surgeon had hoped for. I’ve been in chronic pain for the past 9 years and need the surgery now for another slipped vertebrae, that has caused an almost complete foot drop, leg weakness and intense pain. I’m so scared knowing what awaits me pain wise but worse is the uncertainty of recovery and length of it. Thank you for sharing your video with us and being so optimistic despite the pain and limitations. I’ve never shared my personal experiences online but might record my upcoming journey to provide others with a-hopefully-positive experience. I wish you Godspeed, a full and complete recovery and may you be able to return to a life without pain and limitations! Thank you 🙏
Had my l4-l5 and my l5-s1 fused 19 weeks ago and I now feel a positive difference .. best decision of my life ❤
That is great to hear!!
Did you get adjacent segment syndrome from the previous surgery that led to having to fuse to the S1 and did it cause radiculopathy onto the feet ?
Thank you so much for this video brother. I am having to make the decision of L4-L5 fusion or just live with the pain. Your honesty of your journey is very much appreciated. Scary decision to have to make. Hope that it has turned out to be best decision for your back.
Thanks for the comment! So far I am so much better. i lived with the pain for 15 years, what finally made me do it was the lack of sleep, and overall attitude because of how bad the pain had gotten.
I'm in ur same point I'm really scared and worried about it and I don't get scared literally ever and I'm terrified do u have the same feel I do where u feel like u need to be pulled apart or stretched out similar feeling ro right before ur knuckles are about to pop
Ugh I lived with my pain for well over 10 years and when I couldn't ride my mountain bike even for a mile I called my orthopedic surgeon and made an appointment. Couldn't take life anymore. Just do it. I did mine winter time so I didn't miss good weather. Just make sure you have a support system and get the grabbers to pick things up if something falls to the ground, they are so helpful.
Look forward to herring more about ur recovery. I backed out of surgery a year ago. Thank you again for sharing about ur experience and ur faith
I will post another video soon since its been a few months
I wish I had backed out of mine ! I'm in pain 24/7 12 wks post surgery 🙄
@@karenmiller3750 I’m very sorry. Hopefully u can get some relief. How was ur pain before surgery though? Sometimes there is no other choice
Hey. !! How are you doing now ? Hope u are doing well and recovering
Thanks for sharing all this, so helpful!
Thank you for the comment!
Thank you for your Journal on your back surgery. I am 71yrs. old and will be going in for back surgery in two weeks. L1 through L5, cages and all that jazz. Your video is great on post surgery journey. Like you said. the surgery should be ok, 4-5 hours. The recovery is the challenge.Great tip on using PT shorts or under-ware. I've had both hips replaced and a rotator cuff tear repaired., all in the last six years. So, it will be interesting to see how this goes. I've had back issues since H.S. (long, long, time ago, in a galaxy far, far, away). I was advised several years back to do the hips first, then look into the back issues when it was just getting to hard to manage. So here I go! Again, what an encouragement your video was, kind of!
Thank you for the kind words and sharing your story! I'll have you in my prayers Bob
Thank you for the great insight about this surgery! Im having back surgery in 2 weeks. Not sure exactly if it's the same as yours until i talk to the neurosurgeon, but this gives me a great idea what to expect. I'm dreading this, but have waited to long and the pain is getting worse! I hope you have healed, God bless!
I just watched this whole video as I’m about 10 weeks away from having my L5-S1 fused at 41 years old. I won’t go into all the diagnoses I have, but I can relate to the mental taxing that back pain and back problems can produce. As a Christian and fellow brother in The Lord, I love how you shared that you had hope for the future despite the pain from the surgery. I saved this video so I can go back and watch it during my recovery and have a reminder of what you experienced knowing that it won’t necessarily be the same in my experience. God bless and I hope you’re doing amazing now!
Thank you for the kind words Tim! I will have you on my prayer list for sure.
I just had lumbar fusion on Monday October 16 by Tuesday morning I was walking and doing upstairs with little pain as of today Tuesday 24 one week after op no pain at all from surgery just a littke stiff but wasn't really that bad honestly but well I'm 34 years old
Please pray for me. I’m a backslider and haven’t been living right. I’ve been diagnosed with the same issue and I’ve had additional heart issues as a result of the pain and stress.
God bless
🙏 for your complete healing!
Thank you so much!
Thank you for the video. Gives me the reality of it all as well as hope on the other end. I actually spent 20 years in Midlothian until we moved near College Station to be near the grandkids.
Very strong and powerful testimony, thank you very much. I have been suffering from back issues for the past 5 years and it has been terrible, to the point that I just couldn’t take it anymore. This Friday I will get to find out if the doctor I’m working with is going to allow me to get the surgery. Please pray that he’s willing to do something about it. Thanks again.
Chuck, I'll have you on my prayer list! It never ever hurts to get multiple opinions from doctors in different networks. If more than one person can confirm the same course of action, that's all you need!
Hope you keep progressing. Had my fusion l4 l5 about 12 weeks before you had yours. Doctors used glue and glued edges of wound together. Very nice way to do it, no dressing changes. After a couple weeks of showering, the glue was gone and healing really well. If I may suggest, try some prunes or prune juice daily along with colace and possibly senoket (sp?). Today I worked on an old car I have, used a creeper and was underneath car. I followed instructions and doing quite well. Did not twist or turn until doctor said to ease up on restrictions. Only thing troubling me is surgery dissected some tendons and ligaments, so guess maybe will always have some pain in some positions. You have much to look forward to. I been walking dog up and down hills, hiking some primitive areas. Back at gym lifting light weights, medical permission given to me to do so.
Thank you for the comment and kind words Peter! Eating prunes and prune juice REALLY helped. That was a bigger help than any medication that I tried.
Thank you tons for your honesty
Thanks for the comment :)
Thank you for your testimony and giving your story giving me hoping my same surgery upcoming.
Thanks for your video! I've been looking at lots of things about back surgery on UA-cam. I will be having the same surgery as you in the coming months. I am 64 years, and I had 3 back surgeries at age 12. I've had many surgeries over the years ( 3 hernia repairs, appendectomy, gall bladder removal, thyroidectomy due to cancer, and both hips replaced in 2022 and 2023. Having said this, I am terrified about the back surgery. I don't remember much about my previous back surgeries except I got a staph infection that lingered for a year and they had to clean out my back incision many times. I tolerate pain pretty well, but the thought of recovery from back surgery is frightening. Recovery from the hip replacements was relatively easy and you are right about dilaudid being a magic elixir to get rid to the pain. To make matters worse, I've been diagnosed with something called arachnoiditis which is inflammation of the covering of the spine and central nervous system. I was told that there is no cure and treatment consist of pain management. I'm hoping my back surgery is successful and the recovery relatively smooth. Nothing worse than back pain!
So glad everything went well for you. So scared to do this due to the fact that I have read many wrong stories. We would love an update after these months. God bless!
I will do an update video soon! recovery has been going well. I have been doing most normal things now
I've been told it can take up to a year to fully heal . I honestly thought I'd be doing better . I've never taken any pain meds as they make me sick ..I'm hoping when able physio will help..
Love that Nomad buddy! I'm probably gonna have the same surgery soon. Thanks for posting this.
Thank you for the comment!! Definitely get multiple opinions before surgery. Even if it seems monotonous.
Thank you brother for making the videos. God bless.
Thank you for the kind words!
You are great and your faith is the foundation of your recovery I am going to spinal fusion surgery and your video is very helpful and encouraging
Thank you for the kind words, I will have you on my prayer list for sure!
im going in for L5 S1 fusion.... thank you so much. very helpful!
Ty for this..I am a retired RN about to have same surgery. I appreciate you. God bless you.
Thank you for the comment, I'll add you to my prayer list!
Thanks for this video, helps us understand all of the short term effects of the surgery. My wife is gonna go through the same surgery as well.
How are you doing now? Have you fully recovered? Back to normal like before you injured yourself? Or are there still a couple things that you have to keep an eye on...
Honestly I may be a little better than before in some ways, and worse in others. I will do a 1 year follow up video this month hopefully
I have had back surgery in the past. Laminectomy without fusion L2 L4 L5 in 2013. Now all the problems are back and I am looking at spinal stenosis surgery with fusion. Thank you so much for doing these videos. You are so frank and down to earth. I just love you and wish you the best. I will see how mine goes soon enough. I don't know if I could do a video, but I am so grateful for you and these videos. The fact that you are a Christian and believe in Jesus and that gives you hope, gives me hope as well. I believe in Jesus as well. You are in my prayers. God bless you
Thank you for the comment and kind words Mary! I'll have you on my prayer list. I hope you are able to find long lasting relief
Just remember, Bad things happen to good people and Good things happen to bad people. It is sin in the world. If we could escape all the pain and suffering by becoming a Christian, then everyone would want to be one. Everyone goes through some sort of trials in their lives. My L3-L5 is really really bad for years. Had a boston Scientific stimulator implanted Dec. 3, 2007 and had to retire from the forestry service because of all the years on a bulldozer destroying my lower back. I was an adrenaline junkie and I could not give it up and become a dispatcher/secretary. I hate paperwork. Now at 66, I've been having bad problems and muscle spasms and charlie horses in both hips for the past 6 months. I am terrified to have this surgery of a laminectomy or fusion and they say it comes back again after 2-8 years. I suffered so much in the early 2000's until 2011 when I lost 135 pounds and I was pain free for 8 years. But the past 3 years dealing with my aling wife who is older than me is so stressful and it is difficult to stay on the strict vegan diet I was on and gained 65 pounds in the past 3 years. Any extra weight you put on will add to or cause you pain. I didn't see or hear anyone mention getting a neurostimulator implanted for the pain. They work really great, but you have to really crank them up when the pain is really bad and will lock up your muscle like a tens unit. I may need a new one again if this one goes broke. I pray that everything works out for the best for all of you and consider an implant first. There are 3 different companies who make them. Boston scientific, Saint Jude and Medtronics are the top 3. But there are others too. As of 2020, there are nine commonly used SCS platforms made by four manufacturers including four SCS units from Abbott, three from Boston Scientific, and one each from Medtronic and Nevro.
@@JohnSmith-uy7sv pain stimulators are great and usually as a last resort. Docs want the spine to be secure and nerves to be clear down the spine first. If still a problem after the surgeries, then consider a pain stimulator.
I'm about to have l4/l5 spinal fusion, I'm a believer, also living in Dallas, but I gotta admit, I am a tad bit uneasy, praying for you expeditious and full recovery man.
Thanks for the prayers. I'll tell you after 1 year I am doing ok.
@@TheGaginator that's great to hear!!! I'm almost 6 weeks out and still having some pain issues, but I believe it'll get better...🙏🏿 🙏🏿
Thank you so very much! I go 7/14 to meet the neurosurgeon. I've put this off for a few years, but can't any longer. I'm terrified. I am a single mom, have a small farm, and work 2 jobs. Thank you so much for this. It has helped me with the whole reality.
Thank you for the kind words, I've got you on my prayer list!
Thank you very much for making this video. Lots of very accurate information. Everybody heals differently. I had my surgery just shy of a month ago. I could tell everybody my entire story. But the doctors gave me the thumbs up that the surgery went well, and it just have to be careful and try not to lift anything that weighs more than a gallon of milk. The one thing I really do agree with you about is being constipated. And the doctors were equally concerned. They literally would not discharge me from the hospital until I had a healthy bowel movement. I had no problems going number one. When I told the doctor that I haven’t made a Dookie in one week, he was extremely concerned. After the surgery my pain was really bad so I had to hit the call button for a nurse to come and help me go to and from the bathroom. If you go poop, don’t flush the toilet. Apparently either the doctor or the nurses wanted to do make sure. Other than that, I really appreciate this video cause I’m recovering. It’s been about a month and I still use a walker. Not necessarily because I have to it’s more so psychological because before I had my surgery I was at a high risk of falling. (I’m 50 years old). I use the walker as “insurance”. I just don’t want to fall down and screw up my back again until it’s completely healed. My doctor said I really have to hit something hard because the titanium screws in my lumbar are extremely strong. Either way, thank you for the video. I watched it from beginning to end. And I sent it to my cousin she is gonna have to have the same surgery so she’s in the process of learning.
Hi Gage, thank you for this video. So helpful. I have had a back injury that I have suffered with for 7 years from an old sports injury. I'm told I need a fusion but I have put it off for as long as I can. About at the end of the rope I'm afraid. How are you doing now? You seem like a great guy. I gonna keep YOU on MY prayer list! God Bless you brother.
Thank you for the kind words!! I am doing ok, but still have pain. I can sleep now which is good. Maybe I was much too active during recovery? I didn't do anything crazy. Just had my 1 year checkup and they said everything looks great in my spine, so they don't know why it still hurts. The past year I have been given some opportunities to grow in my faith, and do some things I would have always been to "busy" for before. I don't regret the surgery, and many people have noted great success.
Thank you so much for sharing I’m having this same surgery in a couple of weeks. You really did answer a lot of my questions. How do you feel now? Are you able to bend?
Hey there! I am ok, but still a substantial amount of paint. I think the doctors misdiagnosed my case unfortunately. I can bend and do all normal tasks. Sitting strait is painful still, but reclining is just fine. Makes driving difficult unless im in the right vehicle, and have heated seats
I go tomorrow morning and have my surgery. I'm 41 and have gotten to the point I can't do anything I enjoy anymore. I pray this helps. I greatly appreciate the end where you said you have hope. That makes me have more hope and not be as afraid of this. Thanks man!
How did it go?!
@Dime333 i was in surgery for 5 hours. It's almost been 2months, and I honestly can't complain. I feel better than ever. The hard part is remembering that I have a lot of restrictions.
I've got you on my prayer list for a good recovery!
@@heosomeheosome6752how are you doing now? I need it but I'm terrified
Thanks for your time letting people know you went through. I’m scheduled to have my back surgery on L4 L5 And fusion.
I'll be praying for you Angela!
How did yours go?
Hi Angela I like to ask as I’m very hesitate and scare have surgery at the same level as yours
With fusion you be able to bend normal after said month of the surgery or no
I appreciate your answer
And wish you well
Thank you for making this video. I have had 2 failed discectomies, and now I'm waiting for scheduling the spinal fusion. I've been really down wondering if the fusion will help, and your video has been very uplifting!
Thank you for the comment, I'll have you on my prayer list for sure
I am now 10 days out. First few days after were as hard as anything I’ve been thru. As I woke up at home beginning day 4, my pain level had become manageable. Mine was L4-5. Thanks for sharing yours.
I am glad I stuck around until the end of this to learn you're a follower of Jesus Christ. I have been struggling with bulging disc pain on the nerve for ten years now without pain meds until now. You've given me just what I needed to hear because the most recent injury made life unbearable and started affecting my confidence in God's help. Thank you
Very nice information, thanks for sharing. If you could have added before and after MRI/X- ray reports in the video would have been nice just to see how they have placed the rods, fusion stuff etc.,
But this video is really inspiring.
Great suggestion! I will add x-rays at least to my 6 months update video i have planned
Thanks for the video! Hope you are doing well!!
Thank you! doing ok
great video thanks I'm going in in 2 months this has been extremley helpful
Thanks for the comment, i'll have you on my prayer list for sure!
@@TheGaginator Thx bro
You’re an inspiration to a 76 year old about to have same fusion as you had. Thanks for your honesty and being comfortable with all the advice-so helpful! You are a great parent and husband .
What was muscle relaxant (never used any myself) and what was second pain med after norco, which I was on first day of laminotomy surgery, which didn’t fully relieve pressure on the disc. Thanks again!
Thank you for the kind words :) The muscle relaxer that they prescribed to me was Methocarbamol.I didnt like the way it made me feel for sure. A muscle relaxer that works for me without side effects is Tizanidine. The pain medicine that worked well for me at the hospital was Dilaudid. I know little to nothing about medication, so this is not advice, just stating my experience. God has been so good to me, I was just able to complete a major life goal hike last week in Oregon (video posted), and I walked over 50 miles the week before!!
Did you not know of or consider a spinal cord stimulator like I did in 2007.
@@JohnSmith-uy7sv everyone is different, but usually docs like the frame to be fixed and nerves to be free down the spinal canal before doing a pain stimulator.
Just know it will be harder and take longer to recover than people in their 30's, I'm in my 60's just had the same surgery as this guy, I have had issues all my life with sciatic pain, I threw up for 14 hours after the surgery, never used the dilaudid pump, the only thing I could tolerate was 5mgs of IR Oxycodone with a dissolvable nausea medication, it has been two months and I still have sciatic pain but it is gradually getting better, the surgeon had to do a lot of bone removal from spurs, I had blown my L5/S1 disc when I was 13 and lived with it but I started having other disc herniate and it got to the point of nothing helping not even steroid injections, so I caved and had the surgery.
I bet you got sick because you might have been setting up taking the pain meds. I’m having back surgery 11/21/23, nervous but this is helping me know what to expect!! I have years of medical experience but it’s different when it’s you, you know. Thanks for this information!!
In 1978 I was fused T6 to L2, to correct scoliosis, I grew nearly 3 inches in 7 1/2 hours. Five years ago they fused C5 to C7 to relieve the pressure on my spinal cord. I have had zero problems with both fusions. The whole secret to a good outcome is doing exactly what your doctor tells you, no more, no less. And physical therapy is key for a successful recovery. I have 14 fused vertebrae and no problems.
SUCH GOOD INFO RIGHT HERE!!!!
I had scoliosis surgery in 2009 now have lumbar radiculpathy possibly degeneration of l5 S1so possibly need fusion for that which is adjacent segment syndrome also have nerve pain coming from around C6 C7 now and considering to do Acdf because cervical radiculopathy is very painful too.
I having my 2nd surgery. My screws and brace came loose after a fall within 6 mos post surgery. Looking forward to it, no mor walking wonky or hurting. Hope your surgery goes well. My first was great.
Hey, thanks for documenting this. I didn't hear you talk about it - were you on any pain management meds prior to decision for surgery?
I've been on morphine and norco for over a decade, and I'm really concerned about how the recovery would be since my body is so accustomed to narcotics by now...
I refused to take any medication before hand and just live with the pain. I cannot imagine taking Norco for a decade. The side effects are awful for me even though it did the best for pain after surgery. I quit taking it very quickly because of how bad the constipation was. Some people don't have that issue with opiodes, and some do.
I had spinal fusion surgery a week ago. So far recovering well. Having trouble sitting too. Thanks for sharing your video. Martina
I'll have you on my prayer list Martina!
Super helpful as I prepare for L3-L4 laminectomy and spinal fusion!
I'll add you on my prayer list! I am going to do an update video soon after my next MRi / CT appointment
Having s1 l5 jan 21 can barely walk a.t.m
Thanks for sharing appreciate your effort. All the best m8 from newzealand.
I hope your procedure goes well, and you gain your freedom from pain!
Good luck Jamie. I am doing this very soon L4/L5. I am so scared. I will be praying for you. Please let us know afterwards. ❤️
@@marsidanajdeni ❤🙇🙏
jamie fisher ...❤🙇🙏
Thanks very much for this - very happy it went well - wanted to ask was your op a minimally invasive op ??
Thank you for the kind words! I do not think mine was minimal. I have forgotten. The scar on my back is 7 or 8 inches long
You probably will not see this as it's been a long time but I'm having this same surgery Jan 8 2024. I too am a believer in Jesus Christ and have had my reservations about doing this but after hearing you, I also feel "hope". I appreciated that you did not sugar coat anything, explained the pain you were in that first week and prayerfully now, you are completely pain free. Thanks so much for sharing. You've been a confirmation to me that it's the right thing. Blessings.
Big help thx for taking the time to make video
Thank you for the comment!
I appreciate you are doing this…
Thank you… I am 4 weeks post op and 72 years old. I am walking 1 1/2 per day on a level floor. The pain gets intense in the late afternoon. I believe it’s because as you mentioned… sitting is the hardest part.
I never had lower back pain until someone was texting and hit us at a stop position.
I can say there is still pain as it should be but it’s a different pain and gets better everyday.
Blessed and so happy I had the L4-L5 fusion. At my age I thought twice about it but so glad I trusted my doctor and Tulane Hospital.
Thank you for the comment! I am praying for a full and speedy recover for you
I’m having surgery from L2- L5 and L5 -S1. I’m very nervous and scared about all of it. Thanks for the video.
@@debbyebouldin1543Thats a long span. Please keep us posted!
fantastic video. i will be going for this surgery in a month and terrified of the recovery. a week of the worst pain in my life is better that feeling any pain forever. curious how you are doing now after a year or so. how is the bending and moving around to fix cars? plumber here and hoping i can still do the same work.
Thank you brother in Christ for sharing your surgery experience. I am having this very same surgery at the end of April.
I pray for the touch of Jesus in your recovery and complete healing. Amen
Had the same surgery. I was in surgery for 51/2 hours. Open tlif. In the hospital for 5 days. My pain was similar to yours. Feeling really good, week 7. Maybe too good. I actually have to slow down some. I am also a born again Christian. Many prayers and Gods wonderful and mighty strength helped me immensely!!!
Thanks bro I’m 58 and I’ve been putting up with spongilolithesis slipped vertebra L5 since I was 12 I refused to let them fuse way back then but it’s catching up with me now waiting for new results on mri but we’re at the point they need to do something about it. Classed as a workaholic just had triple bypass two years ago and dealing with compressed nerves in the neck going to the arms from tilting my head to insert the breathing tube. Had the nerves burnt in my neck from c2thru c7 to disconnect the pain signal to the brain. Super painful. Your video definitely got my attention. Any new updates please upload.
Sounds like you and I share an addiction to working haha. I'll be doing a 1 year follow up video soon!
I received the good news I too have to go through the wonderful world of l4 l5 fusion. I have been like you hesitating the thought of doing it. However I have left sciatica pain that socks. I've tried PT chiropractor, decompression treatment, Medicine and massage. With no luck. So I'm calling to schedule Monday. Thanks for your thoughts as they were from a realistic point. Heal up God Bless
I hope that your situation gets better, and if you choose surgery, I pray a speedy recovery! I have been wanting to do a follow up video. I'll post one soon now that I have started PT.
I’m having l4/l5 & l5/s1 fused in a few weeks. I am beyond nervous. Thanks for a great video
6th day of my L3 fracture fixation surgery through pedicle screw fixation, and I must say this my first UA-cam comment, and every thing this guy is telling I have experienced and it’s a big hope that one day I will be able walk without walker and pursue my life like I used to before the accident
I've had a different experience so far. I had the surgery two mornings ago. I didn't sleep until the operation. I have had zero pain the entire time. I am stiff in the low back and I do feel pressure of some sort when I move too much. I feel actually better than when I went in. I had a double laminectomy of l4/l5 - I went numb and my calves and right glute went dead on me a couple months ago. I had sciatica constantly getting worse for a year and a half prior to that. I got two rounds of cortisone shots the first helped my left side and then I had some kind of freak onset of sciatica on my right leg (prior it had no issue just left leg) that took me to my knees. I had a second shot and that did not help much. I'm pretty sure my S1 got impinged since it is responsible for bottom of feet numbness and calves. My right leg even felt dead. Now after surgery I can already slightly flex my right calf and my left calf is a lot better. My numbness is still there but quite a bit better. I am amazed I have had zero low back pain. I am on hydrocodone and still on gabapentin. This surgery even fixed my issue with peeing (I had weird pressure when peeing especially if sitting down). Pretty happy so far I really hope I get 100% of my calves back since I can't walk 100% right yet. I am walking with my back upright finally though.
This is all REALLY great information for us, thank you for posting it!!
Thank you for this video. Im a christian also, ive been extremely nervous about making this decision. My surgeon just told me yesterday he strongly suggests i take this surgery. I have a really bad case of spinal stenosis and 2 lumbar discs slipping.
I will follow your recovery
Blessings Brother
Praying you recover quickly. 🙏
I am scheduled for an S1/L5 and L5/L4 MIS TLIF Fusion on February 16 of 2023. He will be approaching it from a minimally invasive technique that I pray will make things easier in the recovery.
I had years of typical back pain from wear and tear over the years but was always able to recover. In March of 2021, I was in a car accident that took everything over the top! After battling two years of every type of treatment, we found that both L5 and L4 has bilateral pars defect causing instability in the spine and now I feel it’s time to address this and work on healing in a different, positive way.
Your transparency helps a lot with it not only being the good or the bad but both. I like especially how you ended with “hope and your spiritual belief”! That is exactly what I am surrendering too that all will be well and this will go smooth with a solid recovery.
I did have one question? Did you have a catheter? I don’t hear much about that?
Hope you are doing well now and feeling better than you have in years!
I am not expecting to be 100 percent but 90 percent surely will beat the 40 percent I live with daily.
I will be praying for you. I need the same surgery L4/L5. Please let us know how it goes. Good luck! ❤
Thank you for the comment! I have has good success, and it's all a gift from God.
During my back surgery there was a catheter, but it was already pulled by the time I woke up. I dont remember pain from it at all, but i do remember having a hard time going pee due to alot of gas build up. I was unable to pee very well or at all sometimes in the bed like they wanted. I had to get up and use the toilet instead. This was pretty difficult, but aided in my recovery i think having to get up and move around more often.
I wish you good luck. I hear the minimally invasive endoscopy is the way to go. You have less incisions and all the “cutting” is done inside. I’m afraid I’m up for surgery in February also. I see the surgeon soon. This video answered of lot of my questions and brought up things I didn’t think of. Take good care.
@@Teresa-K Thank you dear. I'll say a prayer for you and please ask all the questions. Sometimes we get intimidated in front of doctors. From all my research the most important part is post-surgery. How well you keep your body your first 2-3 months for the vertebrae's to naturally infuse, so no mobility is lost or little. Let me know what your surgeon will say. I see mine sometime end of next month. Good luck!
How are you doing brother? Did the minimally invasive approach work OK for you?
Thank you so much, I just found your video, I will have the same surgery on the November 24th 2023, Thanks for the warning of the poop, the little pain killer im on now wrecked my system, Im using Micro Bio pills , I hope it will help, Ive been praying to God on what I need to do and the The doctor I saw today was open by chance I got to see him, I thank god for that chance and look forward to ending my back pain x
great video ,going to do the same surgery , Question did you have any therapy while in the hospital.
3 level up and coming.😬
Thank you for sharing.🙏
I have degenerative disc disease in my back and have already had a discectomy back in 2015 on L5-S1. I am looking now at T10 through my Lumbar section for fusion and am trying to decide if I should have it or try PT or pain therapy. I am leaning towards surgery because anything else IMO is just masking the underlying problem. your journey while not as severe as what I am looking at helps in whether I go through with it or not. Thank you for sharing not just your experience but also your faith. Much appreciated.
Hello. I'm glad I found your video. I had my first spine surgery on Nov 2022 the day before my ski accident. It was so painful after that surgery. I had 8 screws, 4 on each side and 2 rods. Anyhow, nobody told me about NO BLT - bend, lift, twist. Therfore after 2 weeks I had 2 screws that get loosen. Painful experience.
I was able to sleep only on my left side and on my back, because on my right side I had 8 broken ribs and the shoulder.
Then two months later I had the second surgery with more screws. I vomited for almost 20h after that surgery. I think the anesthesia was causing me a lot of problems. Then constipation. Having a poop was my go home ticket, so I tried everything I could, until it was too much, but didn't say anything because I wanted to go home.
This time I had 29 staples for 2 weeks. I didn't have much movement for 6 weeks because of the pain from spine and ribs. Tomorrow I'll have my 6 week post op follow up appointment.
I still take pain medication only night time, because I need to rest.
I had another surgery to fix my right clavicula, which means a plate with 6 screws.
I feel like "Home Depot" 😕
I walk every day, few times per day. I don't give up and I have faith that I'll be back to skiing, bec I love it so much.
I have a question please: you mentioned something about bone stimulator. What exactly is that? And how did you use it?
Thanks for sharing your story
Sorry, I said the day before my ski accident. It was the day after, of course 😄
Thanks for sharing your story, you will be on my prayer list. Sounds like you had quite an ordeal! Safe daily movement is the key to recovery for sure. I am guilty of overdoing it during recovery. The bone growth stimulator works like a metal detector, creating magnetic field pulses. It was prescribed by my surgeon. I can't say if it has any positive affects, but research shows it may.
@@TheGaginator thank you. I'm so glad I found your video.
Tomorrow is my appointment and right now I feel pain all over my spine. I have to stop thinking about the visit and pray for better health and life.
Please God, help us all!
@@roxanamarin2323 ❤🙇🙏
Thank you for the info. Hope you are doing well.
Thank you!
I’m going in for fusion surgery tomorrow. Thank you for your video. It’s honest and appreciated. I’m 63 , fit and healthy but I’m so concerned. Tell me about how you get on and off toilet? What about physical therapy at home?
Is there anything I should buy for my home? Also out dilaudid makes me throw up. 😢what other pain meds can you suggest? I’m nervously asking. My husband is older and my house is a mess. Does it matter ? Trying to let go of my shower and hair washe daily obsession. What should I bring to hospital ? Any tricks or things you wish you did differently? Thank you so much for this. It’s 3 am. Tomorrow is my day. Good luck sir to you and your family .😊