Guest guest Posted November 27, 2007 Report Share Posted November 27, 2007 Thought I would post my progress, since I haven't in awhile, and asked! I've been doing fairly well, probably on the slow but steady path. I went for a check-up at 10 wks., and Koski said to wean myself from brace and meds over next month or so, and to start PT. It's been going fairly well, but boy, that brace is sure my security blanket. I did lose alot of muscle tone, so it's a catch-22. I have to work on rebuilding strength, but I'm sure insecure w/o the brace. My PT is good, and Dr. Koski wrote pretty specific instructions and stressed maintaining spinal integrity. I don't think I'll regain all of my leg strength, and all the neuropathic pain isn't gone, but it was kind of a crap shoot that it would be. But just being straight, and not having the back pain or fatigue makes the surgery worth it. I went to a "Ladies Night" sale at the start of hunting season, and saw alot of people I hadn't seen since surgery. I sure got alot of "You look great!' and "I've never seen you so straight" and (my favorite), "Have you been on vacation?" People at church have been marveling over my outcome as well. As far as meds I have cut back on Oxycontin to 10 mg 2x/day and still take the Norco every 6 hours. I don't think I'll cut back too much more till I'm through (or mostly) PT. I do have a few lingering effects of surgery, namely numbness on the left side of my back and through the ribs. Also the knees still are painful and red at times from the bad pressure sores I got due to improper padding. I thought that would be healed by now. I've been driving for about a month, and doing the lighter household chores. Gotta love my reacher. I have not returned to work, but my profession is very physical. I don't see myself doing alot until next summer, and seriously doubt I'll return to a full level (veterinarian and owner of boarding kennel). Now I'm just trying to figure out how I'll get through the holiday season and do all the decorating, baking, shopping, etc.!!! Any suggestions on how you all are handling all those expectations and stress? Kathy W. Be a better sports nut! Let your teams follow you with Mobile. Try it now. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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