fusion recovery advice

some words of advice from fusion survivor Beth at work:

If your surgeon can, have the surgery thru your stomach - I know it sounds weird, but by doing it that way they do not cut thru your back muscles, and the healing process is really sped up. I have about a 4 inch scar (below the bikini line), and they just move all your guts to the side to get to your spine. Look up Anterior Fusion with Instrumentation.

Get up and walk as soon as you can in the hospital. About the 3rd day, you'll think "OMG, why did I do this?" It goes away, but this is as bad as it will get. Don't get depressed.

Take your pain meds! Don't think you don't need them. Ask for refills - share with friends! Just kidding :)

Have someone help you for the first month or so - you will need it.

Request pool therapy to start your physical therapy - it makes the transition to the gym easier.

Check out lots of books from the library.

Ask your sup about telecommuting when you are ready to go back to work. It is very hard to sit, and the worst thing you can do for your back. Try to get them to give you a standing computer station (they should do it under Reasonable Accommodations), and your doctor can write you a note - they can also write you a note stating that you should only be in the office a couple of days a week. Get a laptop so that you can lay down and work. Use pillows under your knees for support.

Plan on having some pain for as much as a year. I'm doing really well, but if I move the wrong way I can feel my appliances dig in and it hurts a lot! My surgeon has cleared me to ride my horse, but I'm still a little scared to do so.

Oh, and a bonus - you will be constipated (too much information, but it's true!)

Let me know if you have any specific questions on any of this

GOOD LUCK!