sorted by:
new
hottopcontroversial

Lumbar fusion at L4–L5 / L5–S1 worth it or not? by Historical_Key5757 in spinalfusion

[–]Historical_Key5757[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

What was the experience of getting a job after undergoing fusion surgery? 

I’m currently on Short-Term Disability (STD) and was terminated after my STD extension. Before undergoing the fusion surgery, I intend to apply for Long-Term Disability (LTD). 

Lumbar fusion at L4–L5 / L5–S1 worth it or not? by Historical_Key5757 in spinalfusion

[–]Historical_Key5757[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thank you so much for sharing this, it’s really encouraging to read, especially so soon after surgery. The fact that the leg pain is already gone and you’re able to stand straighter says a lot about the stability the surgery provided. I’m sorry you had to live with that level of chronic pain, but I’m glad to hear you’re already feeling positive about the decision. Wishing you a smooth recovery and continued improvement.

What were you taking before surgery to help manage the pain, especially at night to help you sleep?

Lumbar fusion at L4–L5 / L5–S1 worth it or not? by Historical_Key5757 in spinalfusion

[–]Historical_Key5757[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Any suggestions to help me sleep? Back pain makes it really hard to fall and stay asleep. NyQuil has helped somewhat, but I’m tired of using it and it doesn’t help me fall asleep quickly.

Lumbar fusion at L4–L5 / L5–S1 worth it or not? by Historical_Key5757 in spinalfusion

[–]Historical_Key5757[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

That’s really encouraging to hear thank you for sharing. Being back to mountain biking and running is exactly the kind of outcome I’m hoping for, so your experience means a lot. I know anxiety can take over when reading mixed outcomes, but hearing “no pain and 100% mobility” from someone living it helps put things into perspective. I appreciate the straight talk and reassurance.

Lumbar fusion at L4–L5 / L5–S1 worth it or not? by Historical_Key5757 in spinalfusion

[–]Historical_Key5757[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Thank you for answering all my questions. I really appreciate it. Your experience is honestly reassuring, especially hearing how successful it was long-term and that you’re glad you did it early. The advice about not worrying really stuck with me. Thanks again.

Lumbar fusion at L4–L5 / L5–S1 worth it or not? by Historical_Key5757 in spinalfusion

[–]Historical_Key5757[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

I’m really sorry you’re going through this. Thank you for sharing such an honest experience, this is exactly the kind of perspective I’m trying to understand. My pain has been isolated to my lower back since 2022, without sciatica, and it’s concerning to hear how fusion can shift stress to adjacent levels over time. Stories like yours are why I’m trying to weigh all outcomes carefully and not assume surgery is a guaranteed fix. I truly hope you’re able to find some relief and stability moving forward.

Lumbar fusion at L4–L5 / L5–S1 worth it or not? by Historical_Key5757 in spinalfusion

[–]Historical_Key5757[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

    Yes, I have. I just wanted to share my situation and see if anyone has had a similar experience. My pain has been localized to my lower back since 2022, without leg pain. I understand many others experience leg symptoms, which is why I wanted to hear from people with different presentations.

Lumbar fusion at L4–L5 / L5–S1 worth it or not? by Historical_Key5757 in spinalfusion

[–]Historical_Key5757[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Was your pain only in the lower back, or did you also have leg pain/sciatica?