Thinking ahead re: back problems---UPDATE---
See update on second page. I have a great HMO but, a very cautious one that does a lot of very conservative procedures before sending a patient to a specialist . I have a problem with my back, it ...
Forum Discussion
I have back problems. I am determined not to have anyone cut on me until I absolutely can't walk. My brother, who is 9 yr my junior had spinal fusion in his 30's. Two months later, he was back in the hospital for a second surgery. He has plates, screws and rods in his back. And is pretty much incapacitated ever since.
Have a friend who is probably mid-70's, who just had a spinal fusion done by a neurosurgeon. She said they tell her to follow BLT -- DO NOT Bend, Lift, or Twist. They told her that ppl start feeling better and do things they shouldn't. Then the screws start backing out, and they have to go back in. She is probably 2 or 3 months post op right now - she was doing better, but was looking at a full year to maximum recovery. Then a week or so ago, her one leg went out on her, and she fell.
The surgery is no picnic in itself. Each person has to determine what they can live with and talk to their dr about their specific condition and figure out what they want to do. There are no easy answers and no one size fits all.
I don't personally know anyone who has had fusion surgery who is pain free. Basically they traded one pain for another.
Have a friend who is probably mid-70's, who just had a spinal fusion done by a neurosurgeon. She said they tell her to follow BLT -- DO NOT Bend, Lift, or Twist. They told her that ppl start feeling better and do things they shouldn't. Then the screws start backing out, and they have to go back in. She is probably 2 or 3 months post op right now - she was doing better, but was looking at a full year to maximum recovery. Then a week or so ago, her one leg went out on her, and she fell.
The surgery is no picnic in itself. Each person has to determine what they can live with and talk to their dr about their specific condition and figure out what they want to do. There are no easy answers and no one size fits all.
I don't personally know anyone who has had fusion surgery who is pain free. Basically they traded one pain for another.
