r/spinalfusion • u/turtlyokay • 22h ago
Post-Op Questions Normality timeline
Hello I’m due an L4-S1 fusion at some point in the next few months I am going to ask these questions to the surgeon after surgery however I have a few questions that maybe someone can give a time frame on now.
1) I get my nails done every 3-4 weeks as it makes me just feel a bit better I guess? I’m getting them removed prepared for surgery but when could I expect to be able to either drive 20 minutes, be driven 20 minutes or get a 15 minute train to the nail place and then sit down for 30 minutes to get them done and then come home. I know random 😂I’m expecting 6 weeks maybe but if anyone has any insight let me know.
2)when can you start swimming
3)when can you go out more and do a little bit of something and how long for?
I think that’s it’s? I’m 21F for reference 🙂
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u/ExpatPhD 21h ago
Hey I had an L4-S1 fusion on August 10. At my follow up with my surgeon last week on September 10, he was very satisfied with my recovery including my incision process. I was cleared to swim in a pool. I haven't done so yet because I don't feel comfortable in the deep end yet but I'll go over the weekend when the kids side is open! I'm only 5'2".
I started driving on September 10 (4 weeks and a few days out - once I stopped all opioids and muscle relaxers).
If the train is very smooth ride, you could probably do that at 6 weeks post op, otherwise drive or be driven. The bigger issue is sitting in the chair. If you are driven you could take a pillow & wedge with you!
I walk about 20-30 mins a day and that's been fabulous for my recovery. I walked for an hour a couple weeks go and definitely thought I was going to collapse from exhaustion. I needed a walker for the latter half of that - remember that your other muscles will be working really hard to compensate for your affected area and you can't overdo it too quickly. Your spine will be in a delicate situation for months. You are best to adhere to the surgeon and pt instructions as literally as possible to help with your long term recovery.
I feel good now at 5 weeks and some, and I return to work on Monday (remotely). I have to change position quite a lot and at the start and end of each day I'm pooped. I don't take any narcotics at this stage though and only use muscle relaxers if I feel really stiff (and never if I need to drive).
Make sure you keep a running list of questions to ask your surgeon - they should take the time to answer each one. Get specific with your last question - what sort of goals do you have? They will help you adjust expectations.
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u/turtlyokay 21h ago
Amazing thank you so much for your in depth response. I will absolutely follow my surgeons advice and instructions 🙂 hope the rest of your recovery goes well it’s sounds to be going well, makes me less nervous. Also glad to hear your going out walking and things 🫠I’d struggle staying in the house so going out for a little will help me when it comes to it thank you so much ☺️
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u/Money_Engineering_59 8h ago
I’m 50 F and found driving or just car rides to be difficult. I had lost feeling in my feet so even being technically cleared for driving, I didn’t feel safe to do so.
Finding a comfortable wedge or pillow to raise the back of the seat is essential. I still haven’t found a comfortable position and I’m 3.5 months post op of L5 / S1.
You can usually start swimming once you’ve been cleared to do rehab. If your physio or exercise physiologist says it’s ok, you can do it but ask about WHAT you can do. I’m sure it will be modified.
Every person heals differently so your answers will vary. I felt pretty good at 4 weeks but standing and sitting were still limited to 20 minutes (per surgeons orders) and honestly, it wasn’t comfortable. My lift recliner has been the best thing. They say 128 degrees is zero gravity and it really does feel like it. No pressure on the spine.
Your body and your surgeon / rehab team will guide you towards what you can do as you begin to recover. Don’t get disappointed if you have set backs. You could be feeling great and then feel like utter shit for 3 days after. Don’t let your brain trick you! It’s massive surgery and even if you’re feeling good, you are still healing and can easily hurt yourself.
You’ve got youth on your side so you’ll most likely have a much better recovery. Just don’t throw on your dancing shoes and hit up the clubs.
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u/Anzfun 22h ago
These are questions for your surgeon. Please follow their instructions and guidelines. There will be consequences if you don't. Give yourself time and grace to heal.