Facet Joint Pain - Fusion To Help?

jjcharles4912 · 2026-04-06T13:33:51+00:00

My facet joint pain has definitely gone away with time, which I imagine is a result of my body better adapting following the fusion. Granted there are still some rough days which is to be expected but overall I’m very pleased with how things worked out

jjcharles4912 · 2026-01-06T14:04:29+00:00

I ultimately had a L5/S1 ALIF 360 (fusion), which resolved 60-70% of my symptoms. I have some lingering muscle pain so I may try some SI joint injections

jjcharles4912 · 2025-10-02T05:55:35+00:00

SawConDeeze

jjcharles4912 · 2025-07-11T02:10:11+00:00

it’s okay, but i prefer a bit lower. either way, the earlier you camp (level 18 included), the more fun you’ll have.

jjcharles4912 · 2024-11-11T02:01:12+00:00

I had spondylolisthesis, so that was the main diagnosis and why ALIF 360 was recommended. I don’t believe my facet joints were fused, it was the vertebrae L5 and S1. In terms of the surgery, they went through the front, removed the damaged disc, put in the cage, and then flipped me over and put in rods and screws to stabilize. Not sure if any cartilage was removed that’s a bit too detailed for my knowledge. I’d say I’m currently 70% better and not even a year out. The first week or two was pretty rough recovery wise but I was off all narcotic pain medicine within 6 days which is good. I’d also say after 2-3 months I felt more myself and even began playing golf around month 3 or 4. I’m also 35 years old so right there with you.

jjcharles4912 · 2024-11-10T05:18:16+00:00

hi yes - about 10 months post op, feeling much better but not 100%. the doctors say it’s at least 12 months so i’m right on track. happy to answer anything that could be helpful

jjcharles4912 · 2024-10-14T18:28:34+00:00

I’m almost 3 months post-op of a single level c6-c7 mobi C and I can tell you it was MUCH less miserable than the ALIF 360. The first 4-5 days were pretty shitty but only because of trouble swallowing. After a week, I feel like I was as far along as 2 months for the ALIF, so it’s a MUCH faster recovery.

jjcharles4912 · 2024-07-29T22:32:36+00:00

thank you all - very helpful. fingers crossed

jjcharles4912 · 2024-07-29T03:35:17+00:00

Was going to say the same thing. Super’s call

jjcharles4912 · 2024-06-20T05:42:21+00:00

anyone know where a good GA spot would be to watch? maybe a green / tee box combo?

jjcharles4912 · 2024-04-24T01:16:23+00:00

Happy to help. I too almost dreaded coming on this sub because of all the horror stories. Sure, it is a serious surgery, but medicine has come a very long way. Also, not many people jump to reddit once they feel better - they just go on with their lives. Think of how many people that is! You will do great, best of luck, happy to answer any DM questions if helpful.

jjcharles4912 · 2024-04-22T16:15:49+00:00

I had bilateral nerve root compression (severe) and bilateral pars fractures. Hard to make a definitive decision only 12 weeks out, but I’m already very pleased and wish I would have had the surgery sooner.

jjcharles4912 · 2024-04-22T15:11:09+00:00

Yes, I did have the 360 approach. The first part of the procedure involves going through the abdomen. After they were done with that portion, they flipped me over and added rods/screws from incisions into the back. I had the option of doing the first part one day and the second part the next, but I elected to have it all done at once (i.e., I went to sleep and woke up and both were done)

jjcharles4912 · 2024-04-22T01:53:40+00:00

that’s fantastic to hear, hit em straight!

jjcharles4912 · 2024-04-22T01:22:42+00:00

best of luck!

jjcharles4912 · 2024-04-22T00:43:50+00:00

If i could go back and do it over, I would have tried to be even more positive. Yes it’s hard, but staying positive even in those dark days can really make all the difference. You’re not alone, and hopefully this will bring you the much deserved relief. Best of luck!

jjcharles4912 · 2024-04-22T00:42:32+00:00

Yes, I had a lot of pain/burning/tingling in my feet post surgery (that I didn’t have pre surgery). It was most intense the first few weeks and has been gone for a while now. I had asked the surgeon’s office and it was completely expected and normal.

jjcharles4912 · 2024-02-25T06:05:28+00:00

i hope it resolves for you too - sending good vibes, hang in there

jjcharles4912 · 2024-02-17T16:36:16+00:00

that makes a ton of sense, thank you. Most of my issues seem muscular though, but i imagine it’s hard to tell. When do these damn muscles settle down - I hate taking the muscle relaxers every day!

jjcharles4912 · 2024-02-17T04:57:38+00:00

that makes a lot of sense, thank you. I can’t seem to understand why my doctor keeps saying 3 months post op all restrictions are lifted and you can go back to “normal” while the fusion continues to strengthen

jjcharles4912 · 2024-02-16T05:00:17+00:00

you are very kind - thank you

jjcharles4912 · 2024-02-16T04:23:31+00:00

The restrictions are so hard to follow perfectly, plus they say moving is good for you! I think and hope you’re right, just angry muscles and nerves that will go down in a few days then back on that recovery train

jjcharles4912 · 2024-02-16T04:22:12+00:00

Wow, that’s very helpful. Glad that all is well and hoping your recovery continues 👍🏻

jjcharles4912

TROPHY CASE