post op meds

[thormod]

I am 6 months out from L 4 laminectomy and L5 new disc put in ( whatever you call that)  I started out doing good, but the last two months my back pain and left leg nerve soreness is worse.  How long should I expect to be on pain meds?

[Tuckamore]

This is my first and only time I have been on such a site. I have looked at others but I honestly think MH is the best. It is well laid out and easy to navigate. It is also the best informational and supportive community I have researched.

There may be other ppl that have had a similar surgical procedure to yours. Friday evenings, Saturdays and Sundays this site it a bit less active. If you monitor your post for a few days you may see more responses. If you don't after awhile, you can always add it it to bring it back to the top of the threads where it will get more notice.

Tuck

[thormod]

Thks for the response.  I am going to my 6 month appt next week.  This is the first time I have ever been in any kind of internet community.  I guess my real question or reason for checking in here is to here from people who have had a similar operation and find out how they are doing.

[Tuckamore]

Hi Thormod,

I'm glad you found us and welcome to MedHelp's Pain Management Forum. I am sorry to hear that your pain is returning.

If you were doing better and now have worsened have you consulted with your surgeon? You may need an MRI to see if anything has changed.

It is impossible to know how long you will be on pain medications. There are too many variables from patient to patient. When my father was 75 he had a laminectomy and took one dose of pain meds post-op and never took another one. Some ppl do not have as good of results and require some type of pain medications for years.

Consult with your surgeon to determine why your pain has become worse. That should help answer your question. I wish you the best of luck and will look forward to your updates.

Take Care,
Tuck