how long to heal

[thormod]

I had a L4-5 disc replacement and L5-S1 anterior instrumented fusion in Jan 09 and am still in significant pain. I take 4 norco10mg during the day, and 2-3 5mg oxycodone at night, which is more than I thought i would have to be taking at this point, and yet hardly enough to function.  If I simply lie down all day, I am not bad, but if I do 2-3 hours of activity, I am out of commision for a few days.  Has anyone had a similar operation, and if so how are you doing.
thks,  thormod

[thormod]

thank you, that was very helpful.  I tend to focus on the negative, but the good news is my movement is very good!
thormod

[Dr Rajgopal]

Hi,
The recovery time of disc replacement surgery is shorter and takes weeks for recovery .The process of healing a fusion can take many months or well over a year to be complete. For these reasons, it is important to realize that positive results will be slow to realize and patience following your surgery is  be necessary. A fusion is not a quick fix; rather, it is a commitment of patient and surgeon to a long process of improving your back and leg pain. Total or 100% cures are rare. Realistically, patients can expect a dramatic and lasting improvement in their back and leg pain. Though many patients are worried about a lumbar fusion taking away their ability to bend and twist, the majority of patients eventually regain the ability to bend in all directions. This mobility can allow for a return to work and many enjoyable recreational activities. Good nutrition and slowly increasing activity (as recommended by your physician) in the recovery period can help achieve success . Please consult your surgeon and discuss the symptoms with him . Hope this helps you . Take care and regards !