I had an L4-L5 fusion just over a month ago. I cannot express how grateful I am for your videos. I admire your tenacity and your active road to recovery. Thank you for posting realistic and positive videos.
Hey Billy. Ran across your videos today while looking for recovery/post op stories to watch. They have really been inspiring. A lot of what I have watched have been horror stories or slow and debilitation results. It's been refreshing to watch these and know that it doesn't have to be bad. I got next week for L4L5 fusion, so as you probably remember your anxiety and worry are through the roof the closer it gets. I too was active in the gym 5 days a week, play travel ball, etc etc, and this has put a halt to all of that for over a year now. Say a little prayer if you see this, and again thank you for share the positive aspect and outcome. God Bless.
Today is 6/29/13. I am 4 weeks post op of L4 - L5 Spinal Fusion. I will say first and foremost I am so glad I had this done. I was in pain for over 3 years and normally at an 8 -10 in pain level. I tried physical therapy, injections, chiropractic adjustments, SI injection 3 Rysotomy treatments. All of my pain is gone that I had before surgery. I have normal recovery pain after surgery but I know it is going to be the best decision I ever made to have it done. Don't push but stay active
Thank you for posting your video. You answered what I wanted to know :) I have to have back surgery and am praying for a positive outcome. Thanks again for you video. God Bless You.
Hey people i had my fusion done in 1985 if it were not for this operation i would have given up long ago..i am grateful not to be in a wheel chair.all these years later i am walking and playing with my grandchildren..if you need it do not hesitate .you will be better. off..
Billy, thank you for all of your videos. I had my l4 l5 double level fusion three weeks ago. I really hope I can get back to my active lifestyle one day which included dead lifts, squats, and running in my workout routine. Im 41 years old and in some pain but understand its normal since I just had the surgery. Your videos has made me put up my 3 week pre op on youtube to hopefully help people out there like you have helped me. Hope you stay healthy and strong.
Billy, ur videos is what i latched hold of going into my same surgery this past weekend. Im home 1 day after PT gave me a 👍. Brother u really inspire me and im sure I'll watch over and over as I start my journey to recovery. Its just began but walking AMAP has been key so far. Im mentally focused with solid attitude and have alot of prayers lifted. Hope you see this post. Thank you for sharing ur story and hope u continue to progress! 🙏💪💯
Thank you for your very realistic video. I am a few days shy of 8 weeks post op for L4/L5 spinal fusion and Laminectomy. It's too early for me to complain that I'm still in pain. I need to be patient. Thanks again for sharing.
East Bay Cali I'm almost 7 weeks post-op from an L5-S1 ALIF, and I'm still in quite a bit of pain too. I know it's a long recovery, but it's really starting to get to my emotions. How are you feeling now?
Thanks for the update, Billy! I'm just over 10 months post-op from the same surgery and am doing well too! I haven't attempted any dead lifts (:-) but I'm thrilled that I've been able to hike in the Rocky Mountains and was able to drive from PA to the Canadian Rockies and back with minimal pain. I know what you mean about stiffness, but I blame myself for not keeping up with my PT. I have my 10-month follow up appointment tomorrow, so we'll see how things have fused! Keep up the positive spirit!
I had this surgery 6 days ago, I am surprised by the lack of pain. I am uncomfortable, sore but not no bad pain. I believe I made the right decision, the Lord has been good to me.
I'm 9 days post op L4 L5 lumbar fusion. removed a cyst, did some minor bone graft. device is medical grade plastic w 4 titanium screws. I'm walking up n down stairs. walking a mile no problem. a little soreness at night. i feel amazing, so glad to have done it. it's been a piece of cake thus far. i think I got lucky w an amazing doctor
hello. my back surgery was a big mistake. loss the use of my left leg. plus other issues I never had before. on total disability now. and you found out who your true friends family are. God bless everyone here.. Amen
Thx for the posting this video. I'm going through a degenerated L5 disc and surgery maybe my last option. Most of my pain is mainly in the lower back, but also a weird feeling to my left leg and arm (most people don't understand my issues). The challenging part of this matter is not able to do my normal activities of life, play sports and weight lifting. Your video posting gives me better insight of the post op. Please post more when you can.
I just had a fusion in the L3_4_5 4 months ago and I can tell you I regret it it fixed the problems I had to a certain extent but I have way worse pain in upper and lower disc good luck to you with your recovery
I had a L4L5 fusion in 2011. Herniated my L5S1 doing bent over rown and squats in the gym. The fusion does put more pressure on the levels below and above. So if you don't play every card right, you're doomed
I am five weeks post op from a laminectomy L2 to L5 and a fusion. The severe pain I had pre-op is completely gone. I am now starting to walk more independently, however still unable to walk long distances. I feel pretty good during the day. Discomfort persists mostly in the early am and pm . Can’t bend or lift more than 10 pounds. I have a numbness in my right lower leg from my knee down since surgery. They told me it would probably not be completely gone until three months so we will see.
am three months out of surgery and l5-s1 fusion and so far so good and from seeing you videos it look like you were in more pain than i was but your video was what i need to see to pull the animal out of me to expect more from my self has your bone full fused yet
Just had my second Spinal fusion 4 days a good, am doing much better now. My first back surgery was a failure, so the surgery that I just had was longer cause the had to remove all the hardware , am thankful that I have such a good Dr. I think that I will get better with time, the recovery is terrible can't sleep or rest for the first months
I had L4 L5 spinal fusion 10 days ago. I realize your video, Billy, is from five years ago and medical knowledge, procedures, etc change so fast, but I feel a little fearful after hearing all the things you can’t do now after surgery that you clearly loved to do. I have horses to ride & it’s my passion. It will be so sad if I have to give that up. And I am hoping this surgery lessens my need for daily pain & inflammation! I love your positive thinking, truly. But I wonder if you feel the surgery was worth it. You’re a pretty young guy.
Thank you for your kind words. I wish you well in your recovery. It has now been 2 years since my surgery and I will be uploading a new video soon. Thanks again and God Bless.
musiccuts...much prayers to you! I am 6 weeks post op L4-L5 surgery Sept 7th, 2017. Left leg still numb, some sciatica, my leg was numb & foot drop prior to surgery. Some days now better than others. It is a rough first few weeks, this week is better. Will be thinking of you & praying for a successful surgery, and post op recovery. Allow yourself to rest & don't be afraid to ask for help from loved ones & friends. I welcomed meals from friends for first 3 wks, was very appreciated.
I'm glad you're positive about things, and it sounds like your pain is so much better. But as active as you should be at your young age, I'm not sure this is such a great recommendation for spinal surgery. So basically you can walk around , maybe jog, lift a few light weights for toning ?? If you had absolutely no other route , I understand, but any young person considering back surgery, listen to this fellow. If you're a sports oriented person, competitive, you may want to find another way. nevertheless, god bless you, and i hope you get back to where you were, you're young and your body will heal quicker.
I'm getting my done on October 25 2016 ! I wash all u video . I think I can't go Forward with this . I have to I'm in pain all day everyday. For the pass least six month . Wish me lock 👍
Hiram , how did your surgery go , i hope well , let us know ,its important to the community that suffer from lumbar L4L5 nerve attack , yes im in pain too .
I’m the same not working no more . Send them it will be my 5 surgery. When I walk my legs give up and pain all the time . Is crazy with pain medication 24/7 My back is not the same. And my settlement is over was to law now I’m on SSC Disability for life . Thank you for checking in on me .
@@hiramrodriguez8570 Bro, so not right how old are you , this i heard of 5 surgery to correct the other Rookies fug up , then the lawsuits go to the lawyers and the next surgery and rehabilitate and physical therapy that is not cheap , can , you tell us what went wrong , we are here listening Hiran .
I haven't had a fusion yet but it is on the horizon. I had a disc trimmed 6 years ago of which is now non-exsistant but that is my own fault due to my ego lol. but something that I feel has prolonged the life of the surgery was that I bought a sleep number bed. I wake up with little to no pain but as you have seen in your own life, the end of the day is usually spent in a bit of pain. I know that I am not long to have a fusion but I am glad that this bed has helped me so much. I you don't have one, maybe you should look into it. I kinda went all in with the i10 model which has the two cambers and the memory foam top, but i am glad that I have the extra layer of support.
I am hav surgery September 21 I am very scared. I have been an athlete all my life, a flight attendant throwing luggage, and not to mention my Highhill shoes. Nevertheless, I am nervous about the surgery, I’ve always been healthy. I don’t like the other things symptoms that are happening because of the pinching of the nerves, but thank you for your advice and let me know it’s not a death sentence thanks again!
Thank you for this. I had the same surgery done December 1, 2016 and it's been up and down. I'm moving (I teach dance and pilates) a lot, but it's very hard to know when I'm overdoing it until the night or next day. I think that your advice for never stop moving is great.
It's nice to hear that am not the only one I had my surgery on June 3 do to a accident got Hit by a car wen I was reading my bike I can't run left or bend like I used to I wake up with pain every morning
Man I tell you, at 44, I'm super competitive , borderline fearless, but now that I have to have this surgery, I am truly scared shitless out of my mind. I have to accept the fact that one I'm not a spring HIV
Me too. It’s coming up, two discs fused, three verts. So quite a section stiff. Scared to death. I was an athlete, even a few yrs ago skiing moguls like there was no tomorrow. Well tomorrow is here and I wasn’t ready for it.
I have not had a one year follow up appointment yet, but at the 8 month point it looked like the fusion was very close to completion. Thanks for the comment.
I had L 3/4-4/5 with hardware. I was disabled 1 year after the surgery. Hardcore drugs and a horrible life. I worked out the whole time with a certified personal trainer. I'm lean and healthy otherwise. Still a nightmare. Quit the drugs. Then found the Gray Institute and a Certified Graduate in my area. My life has made a 180 degree change. To keep it short.If you really want life get assistance from the Gray Institute
Please visit CMC Vellore India and you will see the wonder happened to you as Doctors and the facilities are excellent and they would make you normal for enjoying your optimum best life actions.
I just had surgery Sept 19th. Im frustrated. In loys of pain. I know I'm being impatient. They say nurses are the worst patients. Lol. Maybe so. Blessings on ya! Thanks for the video.
Hmmm, had my L4/L5 fusion on March 26th. No pain, no meds, and just walking each and every day (no calesthetics, pushups, pullups, bending, lifting, etc). Doing fantastic. I will be running my marathons once again after a year. The main thing - listen to the doc, they know a lot more than we know. Best thing I ever did was have the surgery - nothing to it!
I'm 17 and need a fusion. Haven't made a date yet but I will be getting one. I appreciate what you are saying and what everyone else is saying. I by no means am saying in this special case and nobody has it worse than me. I know there are people who obviously have it worse. But I have to have it now and they say in 10 or less years I will need another. And then another. So they said by the age of 60-70 I will most likely have my whole back fused. I want to try and avoid that so thank you for the advice
+Braden Clarkson , at your age, look into disc replacement surgery. Not all surgeons offer them so if you are seeing a doctor who doesn't then get another opinion from someone who does. These false disc act just like your normal discs for the most part and you lose very little mobility. The reason they say you will need additional surgeries is usually due to the fact that when you fuse a disc it causes the discs above and below to have to take the work from the "welded/fused" disc being immobile causing the others to wear out prematurely. Don't be afraid to get a second, third, or fourth opinion until you are comfortable with both the plan and the surgeon. Best wishes and prayers for a speedy recovery buddy.
Hi Billy, I had a TLIF L4-L5 fusion on October 31, 2012. You've shed a positive light on what I have to look forward to, but I had a question about some comments in your videos about using NSAIDS like Motrin during recovery. My Dr. and his staff drilled into me that these types of NSAIDS should not be taken for at least 6 months after surgery as they prevent fusion, (smoking or being around smokers have the same effect). I know you're a year post op, but I saw this in some of your early videos
Hey Mr. Robertson, I have the same back problems L4 L5. I have a big back problem and literally a year ago I had a decompression. I would like to talk more, if you can send me a youtube message or if it is okay with email. Please, I want to hear from the person that has the same problem and I want to know some differences with a decompression, fusion and rod. Thank you for your time.
Mr.Robertson. Are you doing better these days after 3 or 4 years? I maybe facing same surgery myself and looking for any insight from people whom have gone thru it. Any info would be appreciated. Thank you and God bless.
My daughter is in recovery stage right now 4 weeks to date, and she is suffering with a burning sensation under her feet, could you advice me on what , and if any solution to help her. Thank you!
Jeff, I have read and heard about not using NSAIDS after a fusion and I am sure there are numerous reasons for the advice. My surgeon did not prescribe anything "under the counter" and simply told me to use something over the counter for pain/discomfort. I don't recall exactly when that conversation occurred, but it was probably a few months post op. I would defiantly follow your doctor's advice/orders in this matter. Thanks for the comments, guys. I hope all of you are doing well.
Thank you for the videos! I have one question, Would you still have had the surgery done knowing what you know now? I'm going in for S1-L5 Fusion and L4-L1 Fusion...So, my entire low back and I'm SOOO scared! God bless you and again, Thank you
Lana Z You're most welcome! I really hope they help people who are afraid like I was. I plan on doing another update since it's almost a month now. The first three days are hard, but they give you the right meds and you sleep...sleep is your best friend! When you sleep, you heal and I've been sleeping a month! My doctor told me not to do much, except walk. The rules are BLT= No Bending, Lifting or Twisting. No matter how good you feel, don't do any of those things! Listen to your doctor and do as he says. It seemed the 4th day was THE DAY I started feeling stronger and able to walk and do more. We are always afraid of the unknown but this surgery has come a long way! I don't feel the hardware in my back at all and there are 16 screws and Rods...I don't feel the pain in my legs any longer. I know this surgery is what I needed. In just a month, I feel the difference. I don't know how old you are, but the younger the better! I took the, "Move Free" Joint and Bone vitamins before surgery. It also has D3 in it as well. I also took a one a day and had been for several months. You must have faith and believe in your Doctor! I'll be praying for you Lana Z and let me know how you're went! When are you having surgery? I'm 53 so the younger the better because you will heal faster! These videos are very scary and like my husband says, folks who feel good, aren't on here...perhaps he's right? I plan on posting as I go along! but before you have your surgery, make sure that anything you have to bend over to get, is at waste level...it makes things easier and sometimes the doctors gives you a prescription for a potty chair that is higher and a walker...you will need these for about a week, maybe more. I hope this helped! I do feel better and feel the difference. But!!! Take the meds you're given and keep up with them, because if you let the pain get a head of you, it's hard to calm it down...so take the meds as they tell you to take and when to take them. That's super important as well! Don't skip a med just because you feel better...still take them as they direct! Let me know if you need anything else answered! I promise, it is scary, and it hurts, but have faith and believe...God bless!
Thank you so much, Tamalyn, for your kind words and encouragement. I don't know when I will have my surgery. I can't decide. I keep stretching it, but I know it will not go away and I will need it sooner or later. I will look out for your videos. Wish you all the best. Lana
+tamalyn scott what your husband said is so true. i never came on here when i was feeling good and i was pretty much pain free for many years after the fusion until i got serious about lifting weights in the gym and it degenerated the disc below the fusion :(
Hi thank you for all the videos because I recently just had major back fusion the same way you did but it was the S1 L5 my question to you is did you fuse did your bones fused together did the doctor say you fuse and when did you fuse thanks?
I like what you said about that you can move and feel less pain. I am just getting T3's for my DDD the L4 L5 i what to get the operation done but the doctor will not let me get it done so i just live in bed because if i try to move i just can't hold back the tears of pain. I live alone so there's no one here to help me it's like hell on earth for me. I can't take any kind I have anti-inflammatory medication because I'm allergic to it and i take lots of med's . I never been any kind of opiates at all i knew someone at the gym and he had it done but they wouldn't do it here in Canada for him so his mom and dad went to Germany to get the operation done. But he said to me he doesn't feel any pain at all and he showed me the cut on his lower back. I talk to other people here that had it done and some had to get it done 3 times but today they're pain free. I think i have to phone Government Health here in Canada to get it done because i am Bed bound.
Steve Frank Hi Steve. Im in the uk & I've just seen your post & was wondering how you were doing? I have DDD in 3 lower discs & 2 in my neck caused by very repetitive hard manual labour in my job years ago & have been suffering for last 15yrs or so now. I was put on Oxycontin 800mgs per day by my dr but got addicted after 9yrs of taking it & ended up closer to 1500mgs per day in the end! I wanted to live so after reading so much about how many thousands this heroin had killed in the states & Canada I decided to come off of it! To cut a very very long story short, I've been Oxycontin free now since August 2016 But my pain is so much worse. I cannot walk more than 50mtrs without my whole lower back going into horrible cramp from one hip to the other & it doesn't seem like there is much they want to do to help me as 3 lots of injections in 2014 did nothing for me!! Anyway, hope you're doing ok!!!
I've had my neck and lower back done. It take a year to heal from the neck surgery. The lower back is taking longer to heal. The pain from surgery is worth it.. I'm becoming healthy because physical therapy is truly necessary. I had to learn how to walk it's all been an uphill Journey but necessary. I am presently taking Lyrica for nerve pain and it seems to be doing the trick no opiates in it. I pray you find a solution to your issue. Also take turmeric and take black seed oil to help with inflammation.
I had L5/S1 fusion almost 2 years ago. I am allowed biking with straight handlebars, like a mountain bike, but not on a road bike with bent handles - too much back bending. After a year it hasn't aggravated anything. But I have to be careful.
Hey Billy, I have a spondy on L4/L5. I slipped it playing ice hockey 2 years ago. I've been trying to recover without surgery. It's come along a ways, but I wonder about having the surgery done... It would be a one-level surgery. I feel discomfort most days and have stopped playing sports. I am still able to walk, light jog and work (desk job/driving). I feel brittle though, where my spine is not strong. Do you have any advice?
Thank you for this. I just had my 3rd opinion... I need what you had... (as much as I was hoping that wouldn't be the case) It is so good to know it is not doom and gloom. THANK YOU THNK YOU THNK YOU!!! You are darling.. I am sure you WERE a GREAT athlete... I bet it WASN'T the ego.. :):):) God bless-
Brandy Archer Bonnie, ex minor league Astros pitcher here. How are you doing now? I think us athletic folk accelerate our issues unknowingly unless we really had that strong core to start with. I'm 52 now and like this kid, look 37. But my back is a disaster (well, hopefully not anymore). Best wishes
Hi billy i will have my Surgery nex monday but my doctor say tha she will do desectomy but maibe And The nex 5 o 8 years From now i my have to have a fisión Surgery so will see what up , thanks for you video .
I'm gonna be honest, I'm a little scared. I'm 16. I just had a lumbar lamenectome disc operation yesterday and I'm planning on going into the army. If I can't go back to completely normal by college, I might be screwed. Then again, since I'm young and my cartilage is more flexible, I might heal a little bit faster, but I'm worried about what's gonna go down in these next couple years, you know?
I had that surgery due to an injury while I was enlisted in the Marines. I was an infantryman from 2000-2008. I can tell you right now, that if you have had that or any back surgery, you are going more than likely going to get turned down for entry. On the slight chance that you aren't turned down, think about this... I am 32 and had the surgery 6 years ago. I now have no disc left in that location. you are very young and you only get one back. I have a hard time picking up my 3 year old daughter some days and she is tiny like her momma. Any branch of service will ask a lot of you physically. You don't want to end up like me one day at an early age watching your friends doing things that you can no longer do. take care of your back and give yourself a longer healthier life.
+Jake Jamison Music smbullz is exactly right. You will have a tough time getting in to any of the services after a back surgery. I served from 1992 - 2001. Injured my back while in, in 1996. Finally had a discetomy last April and now looking at fusion in January of next year. I injured mine when I was only 24 years old and it has been nothing but pain ever since. The military will not take a chance on someone that already has back problems, and they won't want to cover your medical bills for the rest of your life. Hell, It's taken almost 20 years for them to finally take care of my back. Nothing will keep you from trying though. Get through the next couple of years and get into the best shape you can. At worst, they tell you no.
Im havin a spinal fusion surgery and I'm scared that its gonna ruin me cuz I play soccer I'm goin d1on scholarship to play and I know I won't be able to do things anymore and I was wondering do u know if u have this surgery do u have to have the rode n bolts in the back?
You know how the levels below and above a fusion take up more stress? Does that mean we are just doomed and sooner or later we get a herniation in the discs above and below the fusion? I had a L4L5 fusion when i was 20, and my L5S1 has already degenerated (3 years later), wonder what it would be like when i m over 60, really worried
+Milton I had this surgery 20 years ago (20 years old). I have done a few Tough Murders, many Sprint and Olympic triathlons, half marathon, and ride over 2,000+ miles every year. Keep moving is right! Keep the weight off and keep positive mentally and stay off the Rx. You can't worry about 40 years from now. They told me the same thing 17 years ago and just this year they told me the L3 is getting bad again. Live now and let God show you his plan.
+Troy Smith They had told you that the L5 was getting bad 17 years ago? I really want to do everthing i can to prevent any further degeneration in the discs above and below the fusion. I was really into lifting weights and that may have accelerated the degeneration in the disc below the fusion. So what are you going to do about the bad L3 now? Would you have to have another fusion some years later. I really hope not
+Milton You only need more fusions if you can not handle the pain or other major issues. I am not at that point but would consider it if it got to that point. I keep a good core and listen to my body. Stress is my worst enemy. I have good and bad days. That is life. Think about all the people with cancer and refugees that lost everything and feel blessed to only have a bad back. I would rethink lifting but find something to keep active and positive. This is not a death sentence but can be if you let it.
+Troy Smith I've actually stopped lifting. I am doing bodyweight and callisthenics workouts at the moment, trying to see how big i can get doing just that. I am trying to be very positive. I had the fusion at 20 (4 years ago) following an accident. Started lifting at 21 and got addicted to it at 22 when i got serious about bodybuilding and started squatting with weights and stuff. Thats when the disc below got bad. Now that i Haven't lifted any weights for about 6 months. My symptoms are improving. I know I will get better very soon.
I am 2 months from L4 L5 back surgery of herniated disc and pinched nerves going down the front of my leg. Feel very depressed and like giving up. The nerve pain is still bad and on medication. almost feel like I am doing worsevinsteadvof better but working part time going full time soon and doing physical therapy 3 days a week. When does the pain stop...sometimes so bad I don't want to do anything at all. Hoping I see a change soon or even 3 months out from surgery. did you experience this?
Do not give up ! I am on my 3rd back surgery. First for decompression1998, 2nd for decompression2014( Went badly wrong as totally crippled after ). 3rd for fusion of L4/5 aug 2016. Now 5 months since op and despite continuous pain for 8/9 years have found pain reduced massively. No pain killers now. Can walk 1 mile. I know I will never be perfect again but, hey this is great compared with what I have had. Get the right surgeon who you trust ! I repeat "DO NOT GIVE UP"
K CARVING - No simple answer and can only speak from my limited experience. The right surgeon is the one whose background, you have researched and found to be the "choice your Doctor would have made for themselves if they needed surgery". Someone who has a successful track record and experience of your surgical needs. (Speak to other patients) Someone you have met, who you feel is reliable and you trust to do the best they can. I did not know that my first two surgeons did not fit the criteria. Little post op contact, lost files, missed appointments, refusing to speak to me, and obviously career rather than patient motivated. Very poor results despite promising me the earth and unwilling to try to redress the problem and clean up their own mess - me. 7 months on now from 3rd op and new surgeon and going to 3rd post follow up check up next week. Pain minor now compared with previously but bearable. I repeat, I know I will never be perfect again but, hey this is great compared with what I had. DO NOT GIVE UP !!!!!!!! On a more light hearted note, it helps if you married an angel 40 odd years ago.
you better hope they don't cut off the meds, which they have been doing. never let a doctor talk you into back surgery, until its where you can or not, function, just too many people i know have not had good results. remember there surgeons, that how they make the big bucks. .
Hi Billy... Please let us know how you are after almost 5 years after surgery???? Please do reply urgently as I want to know long term effects on life after surgery...like how long the implants remain good or we have to go through another surgery after few years????? Please do reply as soon as possible..... Please reply
hey bro im 5 month post op im sore at night but for the most part i can do everything i did before surgery i cant run and i cant jump out of my truck like i did but im back to full time tow truck driver
+bryan fletcher I am due to have this surgery in June. I am afraid of the things that I will not be able to do after the surgery. I am a stay at home mom and want to be able to bend and live an active lifestyle. Do you feel that the pain is less now than it was?
+shogal85. im a full time tow truck driver the pain isnt bad at all i twist lift and all that at work just hurts to run the pain i get at night isnt as bad as it was before surgery like i said im full time tow truck driver and i had my surgery dec 18 2015 was on lite duty for 8 weeks you should be okay to chase your little ones around
I had an L4-L5 fusion just over a month ago. I cannot express how grateful I am for your videos. I admire your tenacity and your active road to recovery. Thank you for posting realistic and positive videos.
How is your back now Tanna?
Thanks for sharing Billy. Very few people do that After a successful surgery.
Hey Billy. Ran across your videos today while looking for recovery/post op stories to watch. They have really been inspiring. A lot of what I have watched have been horror stories or slow and debilitation results. It's been refreshing to watch these and know that it doesn't have to be bad. I got next week for L4L5 fusion, so as you probably remember your anxiety and worry are through the roof the closer it gets. I too was active in the gym 5 days a week, play travel ball, etc etc, and this has put a halt to all of that for over a year now. Say a little prayer if you see this, and again thank you for share the positive aspect and outcome. God Bless.
Today is 6/29/13. I am 4 weeks post op of L4 - L5 Spinal Fusion. I will say first and foremost I am so glad I had this done. I was in pain for over 3 years and normally at an 8 -10 in pain level. I tried physical therapy, injections, chiropractic adjustments, SI injection 3 Rysotomy treatments. All of my pain is gone that I had before surgery. I have normal recovery pain after surgery but I know it is going to be the best decision I ever made to have it done. Don't push but stay active
Thank you for posting your video. You answered what I wanted to know :) I have to have back surgery and am praying for a positive outcome. Thanks again for you video. God Bless You.
I just had mine fused and he hit the nail right on the head. May the Lord bless you through it & It certainly does humble you. At least for men.
Hey people i had my fusion done in 1985 if it were not for this operation i would have given up long ago..i am grateful not to be in a wheel chair.all these years later i am walking and playing with my grandchildren..if you need it do not hesitate .you will be better. off..
trevor patton
What level of fusion sir
Hi trevor Patten. Hope you are still active here. Will be happy to see you.
Just wanna know how are you doing now?
Hi trevor you didnt answered I'm still waiting after 1 month .....
@@makeupbykhani8178and still hasn't answered to this day 😂
Billy, thank you for all of your videos. I had my l4 l5 double level fusion three weeks ago. I really hope I can get back to my active lifestyle one day which included dead lifts, squats, and running in my workout routine. Im 41 years old and in some pain but understand its normal since I just had the surgery. Your videos has made me put up my 3 week pre op on youtube to hopefully help people out there like you have helped me. Hope you stay healthy and strong.
Can you go to gym after the surgery ?
You can play football after the surgery
Thank you sir
I'm having my L4 L5 interbody fusion in 2 days. Your videos have helped me.
Billy, ur videos is what i latched hold of going into my same surgery this past weekend. Im home 1 day after PT gave me a 👍. Brother u really inspire me and im sure I'll watch over and over as I start my journey to recovery. Its just began but walking AMAP has been key so far. Im mentally focused with solid attitude and have alot of prayers lifted. Hope you see this post. Thank you for sharing ur story and hope u continue to progress! 🙏💪💯
Thank you for your very realistic video. I am a few days shy of 8 weeks post op for L4/L5 spinal fusion and Laminectomy. It's too early for me to complain that I'm still in pain. I need to be patient. Thanks again for sharing.
East Bay Cali I'm almost 7 weeks post-op from an L5-S1 ALIF, and I'm still in quite a bit of pain too. I know it's a long recovery, but it's really starting to get to my emotions. How are you feeling now?
Yafey Wolfey I'm about to have a fusion surgery can I ask how you're doing now after this 9 month post?
Yafey Wolfey Answer me Dammit!!!!!!!
Thanks for update ...
7 am post op 2 months 6/19/21.....doing well so far...rt leg and ankle aches at times
thanks. yours are the only videos that ive actually found inspirational.
I am 7 mon. into recovery.. and 5 weeks into hip replacement surgery. it is humbling. Thank you for this!
How are you doing Laurie? Hope you are doing well
Thanks for the update, Billy! I'm just over 10 months post-op from the same surgery and am doing well too! I haven't attempted any dead lifts (:-) but I'm thrilled that I've been able to hike in the Rocky Mountains and was able to drive from PA to the Canadian Rockies and back with minimal pain. I know what you mean about stiffness, but I blame myself for not keeping up with my PT. I have my 10-month follow up appointment tomorrow, so we'll see how things have fused! Keep up the positive spirit!
I had this surgery 6 days ago, I am surprised by the lack of pain. I am uncomfortable, sore but not no bad pain. I believe I made the right decision, the Lord has been good to me.
So good to hear, hope all continues to go well. Did you have an ALIF, a PLIF or a TLIF?
@@jimmski9908 Open PLIF, in hospital for four days, followed for one year.
I'm 9 days post op L4 L5 lumbar fusion. removed a cyst, did some minor bone graft. device is medical grade plastic w 4 titanium screws. I'm walking up n down stairs. walking a mile no problem. a little soreness at night. i feel amazing, so glad to have done it. it's been a piece of cake thus far. i think I got lucky w an amazing doctor
Which sort of fusion did you have? ALIF, PLIF, TLIF????
Great advice, Kathleen. I am glad to hear that you are feeling better.
hello. my back surgery was a big mistake. loss the use of my left leg. plus other issues I never had before. on total disability now. and you found out who your true friends family are. God bless everyone here.. Amen
Thx for the posting this video. I'm going through a degenerated L5 disc and surgery maybe my last option. Most of my pain is mainly in the lower back, but also a weird feeling to my left leg and arm (most people don't understand my issues). The challenging part of this matter is not able to do my normal activities of life, play sports and weight lifting. Your video posting gives me better insight of the post op. Please post more when you can.
I just had a fusion in the L3_4_5 4 months ago and I can tell you I regret it it fixed the problems I had to a certain extent but I have way worse pain in upper and lower disc good luck to you with your recovery
I had a L4L5 fusion in 2011. Herniated my L5S1 doing bent over rown and squats in the gym. The fusion does put more pressure on the levels below and above. So if you don't play every card right, you're doomed
I am five weeks post op from a laminectomy L2 to L5 and a fusion. The severe pain I had pre-op is completely gone. I am now starting to walk more independently, however still unable to walk long distances. I feel pretty good during the day. Discomfort persists mostly in the early am and pm . Can’t bend or lift more than 10 pounds. I have a numbness in my right lower leg from my knee down since surgery. They told me it would probably not be completely gone until three months so we will see.
Linda... i had similar.
hows the numbness now ...and the post op pain ?
How are you today?
am three months out of surgery and l5-s1 fusion and so far so good and from seeing you videos it look like you were in more pain than i was but your video was what i need to see to pull the animal out of me to expect more from my self has your bone full fused yet
How are you nowdays?
Just had my second Spinal fusion 4 days a good, am doing much better now. My first back surgery was a failure, so the surgery that I just had was longer cause the had to remove all the hardware , am thankful that I have such a good Dr. I think that I will get better with time, the recovery is terrible can't sleep or rest for the first months
I had L4 L5 spinal fusion 10 days ago. I realize your video, Billy, is from five years ago and medical knowledge, procedures, etc change so fast, but I feel a little fearful after hearing all the things you can’t do now after surgery that you clearly loved to do. I have horses to ride & it’s my passion. It will be so sad if I have to give that up. And I am hoping this surgery lessens my need for daily pain & inflammation! I love your positive thinking, truly. But I wonder if you feel the surgery was worth it. You’re a pretty young guy.
Rachel any updates on your fusion? I am interested in hearing what symptoms you were getting pre surgery.
Thank you for your kind words. I wish you well in your recovery. It has now been 2 years since my surgery and I will be uploading a new video soon. Thanks again and God Bless.
Did you upload a new video yet? Please send a link.
Thank you for the update. I'm getting my L4/L5 back fusion on Oct 26th 2017.
musiccuts...much prayers to you! I am 6 weeks post op L4-L5 surgery Sept 7th, 2017. Left leg still numb, some sciatica, my leg was numb & foot drop prior to surgery. Some days now better than others. It is a rough first few weeks, this week is better. Will be thinking of you & praying for a successful surgery, and post op recovery. Allow yourself to rest & don't be afraid to ask for help from loved ones & friends. I welcomed meals from friends for first 3 wks, was very appreciated.
Thank you. It's good to know what to expect. I'll take it easy.
Thanks. Very realistic view. God bless.
I'm glad you're positive about things, and it sounds like your pain is so much better. But as active as you should be at your young age, I'm not sure this is such a great recommendation for spinal surgery. So basically you can walk around , maybe jog, lift a few light weights for toning ??
If you had absolutely no other route , I understand, but any young person considering back surgery, listen to this fellow. If you're a sports oriented person, competitive, you may want to find another way. nevertheless, god bless you, and i hope you get back to where you were, you're young and your body will heal quicker.
I'm getting my done on October 25 2016 ! I wash all u video . I think I can't go Forward with this . I have to I'm in pain all day everyday. For the pass least six month . Wish me lock 👍
that was my case also, remember do the back always come back.
Hiram , how did your surgery go , i hope well , let us know ,its important to the community that suffer from lumbar L4L5 nerve attack , yes im in pain too .
I’m the same not working no more . Send them it will be my 5 surgery. When I walk my legs give up and pain all the time . Is crazy with pain medication 24/7
My back is not the same. And my settlement is over was to law now I’m on SSC Disability for life . Thank you for checking in on me .
@@hiramrodriguez8570 Bro, so not right how old are you , this i heard of 5 surgery to correct the other Rookies fug up , then the lawsuits go to the lawyers and the next surgery and rehabilitate and physical therapy that is not cheap , can , you tell us what went wrong , we are here listening Hiran .
I haven't had a fusion yet but it is on the horizon. I had a disc trimmed 6 years ago of which is now non-exsistant but that is my own fault due to my ego lol. but something that I feel has prolonged the life of the surgery was that I bought a sleep number bed. I wake up with little to no pain but as you have seen in your own life, the end of the day is usually spent in a bit of pain. I know that I am not long to have a fusion but I am glad that this bed has helped me so much. I you don't have one, maybe you should look into it. I kinda went all in with the i10 model which has the two cambers and the memory foam top, but i am glad that I have the extra layer of support.
+smbullz i always felt better sleeping on a really hard mattress and even better sleeping on the floor
Thanks for your positive thoughts and honest feedback. I am going for surgery number three.
Thank you for giving me hope.. had the surgery 2 weeks ago..
I am hav surgery September 21 I am very scared. I have been an athlete all my life, a flight attendant throwing luggage, and not to mention my Highhill shoes. Nevertheless, I am nervous about the surgery, I’ve always been healthy. I don’t like the other things symptoms that are happening because of the pinching of the nerves, but thank you for your advice and let me know it’s not a death sentence thanks again!
F did you have anything and L4 L5? Can you walk straight? Better Balance ?
@@birdieb333 how r u now
God Bless you Brother,thanks for your caring words.Waiting for the go ahead.
Thank you for your prayers,, I am on my 5 mos post lumbar fusion L4L5
Thank you for this. I had the same surgery done December 1, 2016 and it's been up and down. I'm moving (I teach dance and pilates) a lot, but it's very hard to know when I'm overdoing it until the night or next day. I think that your advice for never stop moving is great.
It's nice to hear that am not the only one I had my surgery on June 3 do to a accident got Hit by a car wen I was reading my bike I can't run left or bend like I used to I wake up with pain every morning
Man I tell you, at 44, I'm super competitive , borderline fearless, but now that I have to have this surgery, I am truly scared shitless out of my mind. I have to accept the fact that one I'm not a spring HIV
Me too. It’s coming up, two discs fused, three verts. So quite a section stiff. Scared to death. I was an athlete, even a few yrs ago skiing moguls like there was no tomorrow. Well tomorrow is here and I wasn’t ready for it.
I have not had a one year follow up appointment yet, but at the 8 month point it looked like the fusion was very close to completion. Thanks for the comment.
So true about the ego and pride ❤️🩹
How are you feeling now ?
I had L 3/4-4/5 with hardware. I was disabled 1 year after the surgery. Hardcore drugs and a horrible life. I worked out the whole time with a certified personal trainer. I'm lean and healthy otherwise. Still a nightmare. Quit the drugs. Then found the Gray Institute and a Certified Graduate in my area. My life has made a 180 degree change. To keep it short.If you really want life get assistance from the Gray Institute
Please visit CMC Vellore India and you will see the wonder happened to you as Doctors and the facilities are excellent and they would make you normal for enjoying your optimum best life actions.
Thanks for the video. My husband goes in tomorrow for his lumbar fusion surgery.
+brewjaz1 how did it go
I just had surgery Sept 19th. Im frustrated. In loys of pain. I know I'm being impatient. They say nurses are the worst patients. Lol. Maybe so. Blessings on ya! Thanks for the video.
Hmmm, had my L4/L5 fusion on March 26th. No pain, no meds, and just walking each and every day (no calesthetics, pushups, pullups, bending, lifting, etc). Doing fantastic. I will be running my marathons once again after a year. The main thing - listen to the doc, they know a lot more than we know. Best thing I ever did was have the surgery - nothing to it!
+JimandLauren Merrill why aren't you allowed to do bodyweight workouts
I suppose you can, but I would consult with your surgeon first. Be very careful
Hey Jim, did you have an ALIF or a PLIF or a TLIF. Hope things are still going well.
I've had two back surgery n I'm limited in motion as well. So I know the pain factor as well. It hard learning to move again
Thanks for watching. Hopefully all goes well with your surgery. Keep moving and God Bless!
Its been about 7 years now.. How do you feel now? Are you spending comfortable and pain free life?
I'm 17 and need a fusion. Haven't made a date yet but I will be getting one. I appreciate what you are saying and what everyone else is saying. I by no means am saying in this special case and nobody has it worse than me. I know there are people who obviously have it worse. But I have to have it now and they say in 10 or less years I will need another. And then another. So they said by the age of 60-70 I will most likely have my whole back fused. I want to try and avoid that so thank you for the advice
+Braden Clarkson , at your age, look into disc replacement surgery. Not all surgeons offer them so if you are seeing a doctor who doesn't then get another opinion from someone who does. These false disc act just like your normal discs for the most part and you lose very little mobility. The reason they say you will need additional surgeries is usually due to the fact that when you fuse a disc it causes the discs above and below to have to take the work from the "welded/fused" disc being immobile causing the others to wear out prematurely. Don't be afraid to get a second, third, or fourth opinion until you are comfortable with both the plan and the surgeon. Best wishes and prayers for a speedy recovery buddy.
Getting one soon yes need too pray 🙏
Hi Billy, I had a TLIF L4-L5 fusion on October 31, 2012. You've shed a positive light on what I have to look forward to, but I had a question about some comments in your videos about using NSAIDS like Motrin during recovery. My Dr. and his staff drilled into me that these types of NSAIDS should not be taken for at least 6 months after surgery as they prevent fusion, (smoking or being around smokers have the same effect). I know you're a year post op, but I saw this in some of your early videos
Hey Mr. Robertson, I have the same back problems L4 L5. I have a big back problem and literally a year ago I had a decompression. I would like to talk more, if you can send me a youtube message or if it is okay with email. Please, I want to hear from the person that has the same problem and I want to know some differences with a decompression, fusion and rod. Thank you for your time.
Mr.Robertson. Are you doing better these days after 3 or 4 years? I maybe facing same surgery myself and looking for any insight from people whom have gone thru it. Any info would be appreciated. Thank you and God bless.
My daughter is in recovery stage right now 4 weeks to date, and she is suffering with a burning sensation under her feet, could you advice me on what , and if any solution to help her. Thank you!
Jeff, I have read and heard about not using NSAIDS after a fusion and I am sure there are numerous reasons for the advice. My surgeon did not prescribe anything "under the counter" and simply told me to use something over the counter for pain/discomfort. I don't recall exactly when that conversation occurred, but it was probably a few months post op. I would defiantly follow your doctor's advice/orders in this matter. Thanks for the comments, guys. I hope all of you are doing well.
Thanks from Denmark
where are you now as far as the gym? are you stronger? do you do more now?
thank you so very much,
How are you now
Thank you for the videos! I have one question, Would you still have had the surgery done knowing what you know now? I'm going in for S1-L5 Fusion and L4-L1 Fusion...So, my entire low back and I'm SOOO scared! God bless you and again, Thank you
tamalyn scott Hi Tamalyn. How was your surgery? I hope it was a success. I need the same surgery and I'm terrified.
Lana Z You're most welcome! I really hope they help people who are afraid like I was. I plan on doing another update since it's almost a month now. The first three days are hard, but they give you the right meds and you sleep...sleep is your best friend! When you sleep, you heal and I've been sleeping a month! My doctor told me not to do much, except walk. The rules are BLT= No Bending, Lifting or Twisting. No matter how good you feel, don't do any of those things! Listen to your doctor and do as he says. It seemed the 4th day was THE DAY I started feeling stronger and able to walk and do more. We are always afraid of the unknown but this surgery has come a long way! I don't feel the hardware in my back at all and there are 16 screws and Rods...I don't feel the pain in my legs any longer. I know this surgery is what I needed. In just a month, I feel the difference. I don't know how old you are, but the younger the better! I took the, "Move Free" Joint and Bone vitamins before surgery. It also has D3 in it as well. I also took a one a day and had been for several months. You must have faith and believe in your Doctor! I'll be praying for you Lana Z and let me know how you're went! When are you having surgery? I'm 53 so the younger the better because you will heal faster! These videos are very scary and like my husband says, folks who feel good, aren't on here...perhaps he's right? I plan on posting as I go along! but before you have your surgery, make sure that anything you have to bend over to get, is at waste level...it makes things easier and sometimes the doctors gives you a prescription for a potty chair that is higher and a walker...you will need these for about a week, maybe more. I hope this helped! I do feel better and feel the difference. But!!! Take the meds you're given and keep up with them, because if you let the pain get a head of you, it's hard to calm it down...so take the meds as they tell you to take and when to take them. That's super important as well! Don't skip a med just because you feel better...still take them as they direct! Let me know if you need anything else answered! I promise, it is scary, and it hurts, but have faith and believe...God bless!
tamalyn scott I will be making another asap....Thank you!
Thank you so much, Tamalyn, for your kind words and encouragement. I don't know when I will have my surgery. I can't decide. I keep stretching it, but I know it will not go away and I will need it sooner or later. I will look out for your videos. Wish you all the best. Lana
+tamalyn scott what your husband said is so true. i never came on here when i was feeling good and i was pretty much pain free for many years after the fusion until i got serious about lifting weights in the gym and it degenerated the disc below the fusion :(
Is it better than before the surgery? It sounds like your having just as much pain as before surgery? Im possibly getting the same surgery.
Hi thank you for all the videos because I recently just had major back fusion the same way you did but it was the S1 L5 my question to you is did you fuse did your bones fused together did the doctor say you fuse and when did you fuse thanks?
I like what you said about that you can move and feel less pain. I am just getting T3's for my DDD the L4 L5 i what to get the operation done but the doctor will not let me get it done so i just live in bed because if i try to move i just can't hold back the tears of pain. I live alone so there's no one here to help me it's like hell on earth for me. I can't take any kind I have anti-inflammatory medication because I'm allergic to it and i take lots of med's . I never been any kind of opiates at all i knew someone at the gym and he had it done but they wouldn't do it here in Canada for him so his mom and dad went to Germany to get the operation done. But he said to me he doesn't feel any pain at all and he showed me the cut on his lower back. I talk to other people here that had it done and some had to get it done 3 times but today they're pain free. I think i have to phone Government Health here in Canada to get it done because i am Bed bound.
Steve Frank
Hi Steve.
Im in the uk & I've just seen your post & was wondering how you were doing?
I have DDD in 3 lower discs & 2 in my neck caused by very repetitive hard manual labour in my job years ago & have been suffering for last 15yrs or so now. I was put on Oxycontin 800mgs per day by my dr but got addicted after 9yrs of taking it & ended up closer to 1500mgs per day in the end! I wanted to live so after reading so much about how many thousands this heroin had killed in the states & Canada I decided to come off of it! To cut a very very long story short, I've been Oxycontin free now since August 2016 But my pain is so much worse. I cannot walk more than 50mtrs without my whole lower back going into horrible cramp from one hip to the other & it doesn't seem like there is much they want to do to help me as 3 lots of injections in 2014 did nothing for me!!
Anyway, hope you're doing ok!!!
I've had my neck and lower back done. It take a year to heal from the neck surgery. The lower back is taking longer to heal. The pain from surgery is worth it.. I'm becoming healthy because physical therapy is truly necessary. I had to learn how to walk it's all been an uphill Journey but necessary. I am presently taking Lyrica for nerve pain and it seems to be doing the trick no opiates in it. I pray you find a solution to your issue. Also take turmeric and take black seed oil to help with inflammation.
@@lorettawinchester2998 Hello Loretta Just wondering how you are.. hope your healing well
How u feel now ? How's ur fusion now
Appreciate the videos! So what about bike riding or spin? Is that something allowed after?
I had L5/S1 fusion almost 2 years ago. I am allowed biking with straight handlebars, like a mountain bike, but not on a road bike with bent handles - too much back bending. After a year it hasn't aggravated anything. But I have to be careful.
Keep moving, but don't over do it !
Why
Hey Billy, I have a spondy on L4/L5. I slipped it playing ice hockey 2 years ago. I've been trying to recover without surgery. It's come along a ways, but I wonder about having the surgery done... It would be a one-level surgery. I feel discomfort most days and have stopped playing sports. I am still able to walk, light jog and work (desk job/driving). I feel brittle though, where my spine is not strong. Do you have any advice?
+Sam Myer Have you tried physiotherapy
HOW DO YOU FEEL NOW ? ANY UPDATE PLZ?
I can't do anything and it has been about 3 months. Thank you for being honest. I have a question, have you ever fallen?
Thank you for this. I just had my 3rd opinion... I need what you had... (as much as I was hoping that wouldn't be the case) It is so good to know it is not doom and gloom. THANK YOU THNK YOU THNK YOU!!! You are darling.. I am sure you WERE a GREAT athlete... I bet it WASN'T the ego.. :):):) God bless-
Brandy Archer Bonnie, ex minor league Astros pitcher here. How are you doing now? I think us athletic folk accelerate our issues unknowingly unless we really had that strong core to start with. I'm 52 now and like this kid, look 37. But my back is a disaster (well, hopefully not anymore). Best wishes
Hi billy i will have my Surgery nex monday but my doctor say tha she will do desectomy but maibe And The nex 5 o 8 years From now i my have to have a fisión Surgery so will see what up , thanks for you video .
+Juan Cruz just wondering, why not get the fusion right away? Why do you have to go through 2 surgeries
I'm gonna be honest, I'm a little scared. I'm 16. I just had a lumbar lamenectome disc operation yesterday and I'm planning on going into the army. If I can't go back to completely normal by college, I might be screwed. Then again, since I'm young and my cartilage is more flexible, I might heal a little bit faster, but I'm worried about what's gonna go down in these next couple years, you know?
I had that surgery due to an injury while I was enlisted in the Marines. I was an infantryman from 2000-2008. I can tell you right now, that if you have had that or any back surgery, you are going more than likely going to get turned down for entry. On the slight chance that you aren't turned down, think about this... I am 32 and had the surgery 6 years ago. I now have no disc left in that location. you are very young and you only get one back. I have a hard time picking up my 3 year old daughter some days and she is tiny like her momma. Any branch of service will ask a lot of you physically. You don't want to end up like me one day at an early age watching your friends doing things that you can no longer do. take care of your back and give yourself a longer healthier life.
+Jake Jamison Music smbullz is exactly right. You will have a tough time getting in to any of the services after a back surgery. I served from 1992 - 2001. Injured my back while in, in 1996. Finally had a discetomy last April and now looking at fusion in January of next year. I injured mine when I was only 24 years old and it has been nothing but pain ever since. The military will not take a chance on someone that already has back problems, and they won't want to cover your medical bills for the rest of your life. Hell, It's taken almost 20 years for them to finally take care of my back. Nothing will keep you from trying though. Get through the next couple of years and get into the best shape you can. At worst, they tell you no.
god bless u bro
Im havin a spinal fusion surgery and I'm scared that its gonna ruin me cuz I play soccer I'm goin d1on scholarship to play and I know I won't be able to do things anymore and I was wondering do u know if u have this surgery do u have to have the rode n bolts in the back?
+Rachelle Chesson yup
Rachelle Chesson what's your email?
Flavio Velasquez forget it dozens work
You know how the levels below and above a fusion take up more stress? Does that mean we are just doomed and sooner or later we get a herniation in the discs above and below the fusion? I had a L4L5 fusion when i was 20, and my L5S1 has already degenerated (3 years later), wonder what it would be like when i m over 60, really worried
+Milton I had this surgery 20 years ago (20 years old). I have done a few Tough Murders, many Sprint and Olympic triathlons, half marathon, and ride over 2,000+ miles every year. Keep moving is right! Keep the weight off and keep positive mentally and stay off the Rx. You can't worry about 40 years from now. They told me the same thing 17 years ago and just this year they told me the L3 is getting bad again. Live now and let God show you his plan.
+Troy Smith They had told you that the L5 was getting bad 17 years ago? I really want to do everthing i can to prevent any further degeneration in the discs above and below the fusion. I was really into lifting weights and that may have accelerated the degeneration in the disc below the fusion.
So what are you going to do about the bad L3 now? Would you have to have another fusion some years later. I really hope not
+Milton You only need more fusions if you can not handle the pain or other major issues. I am not at that point but would consider it if it got to that point. I keep a good core and listen to my body. Stress is my worst enemy. I have good and bad days. That is life. Think about all the people with cancer and refugees that lost everything and feel blessed to only have a bad back. I would rethink lifting but find something to keep active and positive. This is not a death sentence but can be if you let it.
+Troy Smith I've actually stopped lifting. I am doing bodyweight and callisthenics workouts at the moment, trying to see how big i can get doing just that. I am trying to be very positive. I had the fusion at 20 (4 years ago) following an accident. Started lifting at 21 and got addicted to it at 22 when i got serious about bodybuilding and started squatting with weights and stuff. Thats when the disc below got bad. Now that i Haven't lifted any weights for about 6 months. My symptoms are improving. I know I will get better very soon.
I had surgery L5 about 6 years ago. now I gained weight and don't known what kind of exercises can I do....
Hi how u feeling now your pain is gone 6 years ago
I am 2 months from L4 L5 back surgery of herniated disc and pinched nerves going down the front of my leg. Feel very depressed and like giving up. The nerve pain is still bad and on medication. almost feel like I am doing worsevinsteadvof better but working part time going full time soon and doing physical therapy 3 days a week. When does the pain stop...sometimes so bad I don't want to do anything at all. Hoping I see a change soon or even 3 months out from surgery. did you experience this?
Do not give up ! I am on my 3rd back surgery. First for decompression1998, 2nd for decompression2014( Went badly wrong as totally crippled after ). 3rd for fusion of L4/5 aug 2016. Now 5 months since op and despite continuous pain for 8/9 years have found pain reduced massively. No pain killers now. Can walk 1 mile. I know I will never be perfect again but, hey this is great compared with what I have had. Get the right surgeon who you trust ! I repeat "DO NOT GIVE UP"
Wow. Prayers to you. This chronic pain is horrible and you know it for sure! Thanks so much. Hanging in there.
Who is the right surgeon ?
K CARVING - No simple answer and can only speak from my limited experience. The right surgeon is the one whose background, you have researched and found to be the "choice your Doctor would have made for themselves if they needed surgery". Someone who has a successful track record and experience of your surgical needs. (Speak to other patients) Someone you have met, who you feel is reliable and you trust to do the best they can.
I did not know that my first two surgeons did not fit the criteria. Little post op contact, lost files, missed appointments, refusing to speak to me, and obviously career rather than patient motivated. Very poor results despite promising me the earth and unwilling to try to redress the problem and clean up their own mess - me.
7 months on now from 3rd op and new surgeon and going to 3rd post follow up check up next week. Pain minor now compared with previously but bearable. I repeat, I know I will never be perfect again but, hey this is great compared with what I had. DO NOT GIVE UP !!!!!!!!
On a more light hearted note, it helps if you married an angel 40 odd years ago.
you better hope they don't cut off the meds, which they have been doing. never let a doctor talk you into back surgery, until its where you can or not, function, just too many people i know have not had good results. remember there surgeons, that how they make the big bucks.
.
Hi Billy...
Please let us know how you are after almost 5 years after surgery????
Please do reply urgently as I want to know long term effects on life after surgery...like how long the implants remain good or we have to go through another surgery after few years?????
Please do reply as soon as possible.....
Please reply
i had mine march 4th. and doing well. i dont bent for shit. lol but i def do feel. better. there are some limitations. but dont let this scare you
Now how are you?
I am get back surgery tomorrow I am scared
Christina Gillespie did it go well?
strawberry shartcake it want great thank i feel great
Christina Gillespie that's great :)
strawberry shartcake can we be friend
Can you practise many sports after surgery?
Nice guy
Artificial disc replacement is an option
How u doing now?
I think everyone who has done surgery should keep lower back exercises after surgery,otherwise you probably will start feeling pain again
hey bro im 5 month post op im sore at night but for the most part i can do everything i did before surgery i cant run and i cant jump out of my truck like i did but im back to full time tow truck driver
+bryan fletcher I am due to have this surgery in June. I am afraid of the things that I will not be able to do after the surgery. I am a stay at home mom and want to be able to bend and live an active lifestyle. Do you feel that the pain is less now than it was?
+shogal85. im a full time tow truck driver the pain isnt bad at all i twist lift and all that at work just hurts to run the pain i get at night isnt as bad as it was before surgery like i said im full time tow truck driver and i had my surgery dec 18 2015 was on lite duty for 8 weeks you should be okay to chase your little ones around
bryan fletcher ppl opioid
bryan fletcher my.
bryan fletcher was never
Opps. A spring chicken anymore.
I think that’s called old age
I had L4 L5 fusion as well...
Hi...
How are you now
billydrobertson@gmail.com
Its been about 7 years now.. How do you feel now? Are you spending comfortable and pain free life?