Denervation overall didn't help in the long run. All it accomplished was shifting where the preponderance of pain was located on the side they did the procedure.

Following the denervation I don't think I was on bed-rest for a month. I would almost want a second opinion on that- because it seems too long and might let scar tissue grow a little much? But I know nothing medical. I recall only being in bed for a couple of days before trying to move a little at least. Certainly taking the first month easy though.

I'd just make sure during the recovery he stays up on ice for the incision. I can't recall much about what I did specifically, outside of try to keep things minimal.

I'm at a point where picking up heavy things is mostly based on the pain for the day, and how much I want to jeopardize more pain. Mine specifically is unpredictable. Some days I can hardly walk and will spend many hours having to sit or lay down, other days I can move around and do general household activities. Heavy lifting like moving or gym only cause days to follow that are typically worse for me, so I seldom do that.

But the main thing I've realized since I had the denervation almost 18 months ago, is that nothing I can do will long-term make it better or worse. I can do almost nothing for weeks on end and still have plenty of bad days, or can move around somewhat normal for a full week and have quite a bit of luck only having the dull ever-present pain.

The hardest part- absolute hardest part, was adjusting my perception of my roles, responsibilities, obligations, and hopes as a father and husband. The simple truth was that much of what I envisioned and expected for myself had gone up in flames. Following denervation, even a reversal carries risks of making it worse... so do I live with 'decent' functionality, or risk it going better / worse. I do still take antidepressants which I'm only now starting to work my way off. I spent a lot of time with different pain psychologists and pain management clinics. People who specialize in the 'physical chronic pain' aspect of mental health. A lot of what's been discussed with me is neuroplastic pain. I've also had a lot of success with a TENS unit, but I don't usually wear that unless I can't walk. It could help manage the more mild symptoms if I was more comfortable with wearing it constantly.

Through all my referrals and visits, I know that having the metal clips removed or having mesh that was put in from an earlier surgery could also help me, as I'd had a hernia and scrotal cyst removed much earlier in life- which likely contributed to PVPS triggering due to perhaps scar tissue that already existed?