What muscle relaxer do you take?

[jrnyc]

Botox injections work like magic on muscle spasms....
i get the shots every 3-4 months for spasms in thoracic area....

jess

[Jacque's Mom]

So it sounds like post-op, because you're not moving a lot, spasms pop up. Is that the deal? If so, how soon post-op can you start PT usually? I was hoping to start the week I get home - my PT is already planning to come to my home to get me going.

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Lilysaidwhat......... Yes, that's what they said and it makes sense. I am prone to muscle spasms but this is the worst one ever. As far as PT, you won't be able to start the week you get home - generally it's four to six weeks after your surgery. Flexing your feet, etc. in bed is what they showed me in the hospital but an actual prescription for physical therapy to strengthen your back, I would imagine is a month or so from surgery - that's what I was prescribed.

Thanks everyone for your postings. I will ask my pain mgmt doctor for a muscle relaxer as it seems to work for some of you. I realize everyone is different, but it doesn't hurt to ask.

I'll keep you posted. LYNN

[JenM]

Hi Jacque's mom-

I had my surgery in June with Dr. Boachie. At around 2 1/2 to 3 months post-op, I started having TERRIBLE spasms around my left shoulder blade/neck area. I feel for you as I remember this was the worst pain...so much worse than the pain in the hospital. I remember for 2 weeks the muscle spasms got so bad that I couldn't even move. They were just jumping from the neck to my shoulder and would shock me. At times I would be yelling it was so intense! I am now 7 months post op and still having problems with my left top of the rod/shoulder blade. The spasms did end up stopping though around 5 months post op. I took Flexeril to help with the spasms. Aquatic physical therapy really helped my spasms too. Hope you feel better soon! Keep us posted.

JenM

[Jacque's Mom]

Hi JenM,
I remember when you posted and thought OMG how awful with surgery and spasms at the same time. When that jabbing pain would hit, you're right it's something I've never experienced. I was yelling as well and that's not me but as you know, you can't help it. It's so intense like nothing I ever felt before. It's better now as far as the intense pain but it's still there that tenderness/stiffness, and I'm so afraid it's going to return. I'll just keep using the heating pad and pray it goes away. I'm going to ask my pain mgmt dr. on Monday for Flexeril since many on this site have mentioned it helps.
I'm so glad you are doing well and thanks for your response.
LYNN