I’m one of the old timers on this forum, but I have been quiet for awhile and decided it was past time for me to post an update. To summarize, I had been having trouble keeping upright since after my SECOND surgery (see summary below). My fourth (and hopefully last) surgery was in February. Next week I will finish 16 weeks of physical therapy. I was not a big fan of PT, having been through it more times than I can count over the past 10 years, but this time has been different. I have made tremendous progress with my low back – I am totally without lumbar pain and probably as straight up as I’m ever going to be. The rehab center uses some Pilates exercises (which I have really enjoyed), and the therapists are great. I also now have “buns of steel” – well, almost!
But - to quote Roseanne Rosanadana, it’s always something – I believe the kyphosis in my unfused thoracic spine is getting worse. I have been working on it in PT as well, and will follow up with my surgeon at my 1-year checkup. All in all, though, I’m doing better than I have in a lot of years. When I’m not at PT, I have been doing my arts/crafts and recently opened a shop on Etsy, so I’m feeling really good about that. (PM me for more info.)
Someone recently questioned limitations when fused to S1. It’s most noticeable to me when I try to raise both arms above my head – I still use a shower chair because washing my hair is difficult while standing. Ever since my first surgery I have trouble when backing up my car since I can’t twist very well. I’m just extra careful and go ver-r-r-r-ry slowly. Other than that, it’s all good.
For Susie Bee and others who have trouble with getting their weight down, I hear you. I NEVER lost weight from my surgeries, and it has taken me about seven months to lose five pounds. My dang body just won’t let go of that extra weight!
I have been following everyone’s stories here and keeping up with all the tears, the anxieties, the battles, and especially the laughs. Even though I haven’t been visible on the forums, you all have my support and empathy for what you are going through. I have been there four times so I know whereof I speak!!
I’m particularly enjoying the posts from Titaniumed and Qikdraw. They are smart, funny, sometimes off-color and not intimidated by strong women. Just my kind of guys!
And speaking of strong women, I see Pam is still her usual feisty self. For whatever it’s worth, she and I had a disagreement on the forum a long time ago. She sent me a very compassionate and understanding PM afterward and we have been friends ever since. She knows so much about so many different issues that I’m continually impressed! I’m glad she’s still hangin’ around and offering her wise counsel to so many. I owe you a phone call, Pam.
Well, that’s my story for now. I’ll try not to stay away for so long.
But - to quote Roseanne Rosanadana, it’s always something – I believe the kyphosis in my unfused thoracic spine is getting worse. I have been working on it in PT as well, and will follow up with my surgeon at my 1-year checkup. All in all, though, I’m doing better than I have in a lot of years. When I’m not at PT, I have been doing my arts/crafts and recently opened a shop on Etsy, so I’m feeling really good about that. (PM me for more info.)
Someone recently questioned limitations when fused to S1. It’s most noticeable to me when I try to raise both arms above my head – I still use a shower chair because washing my hair is difficult while standing. Ever since my first surgery I have trouble when backing up my car since I can’t twist very well. I’m just extra careful and go ver-r-r-r-ry slowly. Other than that, it’s all good.
For Susie Bee and others who have trouble with getting their weight down, I hear you. I NEVER lost weight from my surgeries, and it has taken me about seven months to lose five pounds. My dang body just won’t let go of that extra weight!
I have been following everyone’s stories here and keeping up with all the tears, the anxieties, the battles, and especially the laughs. Even though I haven’t been visible on the forums, you all have my support and empathy for what you are going through. I have been there four times so I know whereof I speak!!
I’m particularly enjoying the posts from Titaniumed and Qikdraw. They are smart, funny, sometimes off-color and not intimidated by strong women. Just my kind of guys!
And speaking of strong women, I see Pam is still her usual feisty self. For whatever it’s worth, she and I had a disagreement on the forum a long time ago. She sent me a very compassionate and understanding PM afterward and we have been friends ever since. She knows so much about so many different issues that I’m continually impressed! I’m glad she’s still hangin’ around and offering her wise counsel to so many. I owe you a phone call, Pam.
Well, that’s my story for now. I’ll try not to stay away for so long.
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