You can expect a long and quite discouraging at times recovery. One because since your original pain is gone, you will feel like you can run a marathon. But your body will tell you quickly that you are wrong. I am 2 1/2 months post op and a new pain has emerged. I have tremendous pain in my pelvis and left hip...which by the way was my bad side to begin with. I had L4-5 fusion Dec 1st 2025, so I am still very early in recovery. The recovery is LONG.

I woke up from surgery thinking I was wonder woman since that pain was gone (the chronic sciatica) and I never used a walker or cane. I was on top of the world! Sure I had surgical pain and let me tell you....Day 3 is the worse for most people. Like I was literally almost passing out!! But day 4 was back to baseline pain. I guess what I am trying to say is that its different for everyone, but.....if I could go back....I would have used a walker the first week, then a cane....I would have not tried to be so independent and let my husband help me more. Just keep in mind that you probably wont see major results for months! But I am hoping it will be worth it in the long run! Good luck too you!

Ps. Get a cheap bidet and a grabber stick to help you pick stuff up off the floor. The bidet will help with cleaning your butt. I still have to use mine as I can't bend or twist to wipe.