Spinal Fusion Surgery is done, now the hard part starts

AK121730

Spinal Fusion last month, L3-S1, and looking for any tips or tricks to mentally overcome the challenge of not being able to do my daily HIITs, runs and heart pumping cardio. Hard workouts are my go to brain cleanse every day which are not an option these days as I am one month into the FIRST PHASE of recovery which is 3 months long. During these 3 months, I follow the no BLT rule of no bending, lifting (anything over 10 lbs) and twisting. The fusion is supposed to be partially fused by the end of 3 months which is when I can start PT.

HOWEVER, one POSITIVE thing is that I can walk as much as I want, zero incline, as long as I don’t have leg numbness or surgical area pain. So, I have been walking about 4 miles a day on the treadmill which gets my heart rate into zone 2 which kicks out a couple endorphins and burns a few hundred calories.

So, in the spirit of be grateful and looking at the positive side of things...... my Neurosurgeon did a fantastic job of restoring almost full control and sensation in my left leg which was pretty bad before the surgery due to compressed nerves. Furthermore, the Nurses and caregivers in the hospital afterwards where such hard working, caring and compassionate Angels while I recovered that week.

I am a fitness junkie with a “healing leash” on for the next year that will be gradually removed and I am hopeful that I can be a part of this group to learn from others and maybe contribute something that will help someone else.

Trish1c

I am a couch potato so I may not be the best person to answer but I think you get a course of PT after surgery so speak to that physical therapist about safe options. I would think biking and water based activity would both satisfy your need for intensity but be easier on your back.

AK121730

Thanks