[laceylady]

I have recently been diagnosed with the above plus spondylolithesis. The doctor wants to fuse the lower back from L2-S1. I would only consider surgery if I could no longer walk, I think. I would like some info from any of you with experience with this condition or surgery. I am 5'5" and weigh 172. (BMI = 29.5). I am sitting in a hard chair and using a heating pad for pain relief right now.

1. Has anyone had a multi- level fusion? Did it decrease your pain? Increase your function?

2. If you chose not to have surgery, how are you managing the pain? I am wondering if water aerobics, swimming or bicycling might be helpful. The doctor said yes, but I would like to hear from others who have the condition.

[DougB]

Originally Posted by laceylady

I have recently been diagnosed with the above plus spondylolithesis. The doctor wants to fuse the lower back from L2-S1. I would only consider surgery if I could no longer walk, I think. I would like some info from any of you with experience with this condition or surgery. I am 5'5" and weigh 172. (BMI = 29.5). I am sitting in a hard chair and using a heating pad for pain relief right now.

1. Has anyone had a multi- level fusion? Did it decrease your pain? Increase your function?

2. If you chose not to have surgery, how are you managing the pain? I am wondering if water aerobics, swimming or bicycling might be helpful. The doctor said yes, but I would like to hear from others who have the condition.

I was diagnosed with spodyloiyhesis 20 years ago and lower lumbar fusion, L2 - L4. I have never had any pain since. Although I have heard horror stories from those who have had 3 to 4 surgeries without any success. 5 years ago, I also had cervical fusion. Again, I have had no pain since. I had an outstanding doctor in Melbourne, FL who is considered a leader in this field. I have total movement in my lower back as well as neck.
Has your doctor suggested you lose some weight? A little extra weight can put stress on your back and cause pain (as any expected mom can tell you).

[billethkid]

do consider getting a second opinion as well as doing extensive research on the alternatives to surgery that may be available for your specific condition.

Understand what the long term results could be(5-10 years out) with and without surgery.

Do your home work......surgeries are not reversible (usually)!!!!!

btk

[Mudder]

I'd go to Dr. Spurrier, he won't do surgery unless you will for sure be better.
Bicycling and water walking or swimming are a good way to allievate the pain. If you do nothing , nothing will help your back. Go slow at first but it gets easier as you do it. Keeping exercise up is the key. Use the topical gels, etc....Surgery , I agree, only if you can't walk.

[zonerboy]

Get a second opinion!
Do back surgery only as a last resort.
If you still have pain after a spinal fusion, you're out of options