Thanks Kyle. Im 16 days post op from L4-L5-S1. I'm a 51 year old active dude in both my professional life and personal life (cop with an active K9, boater, hiker, etc) and wound up with disc issues, stenosis, and a 12mm cyst in my Spinal column pinching everything off. Did the best I could for months before seeing a doc and getting diagnosed. The word was no amount of PT or exercise or meds were going to fix all the issues. I, like you, was scared to death, especially when you rely on "Dr Google" and all the horror stories you see on YT. But, with no other option, I did it. Walked 2 hours after I woke up from surgery and knew I made the right choice. The recovery is TERRIBLE, and I'm nowhere near there yet, but everyday when I take my walks, I smile knowing the surgery pain is temporary, and the nerve pain is gone. Again, thx for the positive story! I've made a video or 2 about my experience as well.
Glad to hear you’ve had a good experience as well. We need more positive outcomes, not everyone has a bad experience. Good luck on your recovery, I’m still doing great.
Man that was just what I needed to hear!! I’m a very active 64 year old with my L4L5 fusion 2 weeks in today and the pain has been tough but hearing your journey gives me hope. As a fellow Christian,your story was God sent this morning. Thanks for giving a story of hope to a lot of people. God bless everybody and hang in there.
Thanks for posting. I’m an ER doctor and I’ve delayed this surgery as long as possible. I’ve seen every failed back surgery in at least 4 counties so it’s great to hear a success story!
I feel great, it's been over 8 months now and I haven't felt this good in 15 to 20 years. For me, this was a huge success. Scary process for sure but if you have the right doctors, right frame of mind, and the right support group around you, I'm sure your surgery will be successful as well. Keep the faith, keep a positive attitude, and good things can and will happen.
hello mate. I'm suffering with L4, L5 & S1 is damage with disck bulge. I've been advised by my surgeon to have the operation done but I'm so scared of the pain and want to be able to go to the toilet. I'm on heavy meds but still in lot if pain. any advice mate?
I'm scheduled for surgery on the 27th of this month and have been stressing out. I've done tons of research and thank you for this video. You have gave me a lil peace of mind cuz some of the videos I've thought the same things as you have. I really appreciate this.
I just had the exact surgery 06/03/2019, and today is my 26th birthday 07/13/2019...and I feel fantastic. I’ve had great results through the entire process. I woke up in recovery with less pain than I had when they put me to sleep, that fast I seen improvement. I still had normal surgery pain at the incision site, but nothing terrible. Took pain medicine for only 4 days and that’s it. Granted I am young, but my entire process has went great. God is good!!
I just had same L4-L5 spinal fusion surgery 6 weeks ago and just had my 6 weeks post-op check up today. Just had my 66th birthday during my recovery period. All is looking good, although I will admit as you have stated as well that boy, it does hurt right after the surgery, but it is been so worth it be pain-free now at this point. I managed to take the pain pills for about 4 days and then I just had to stop because of the constipation LOL. I was taking all kinds of laxatives and everything and I was not able to poop. So I stopped and that helped, but of course that resulted in a bit more pain for a while. But I'm happy I did it.. milk of magnesia is your friend in an emergency. Lol. But the key is, that I went in with a fair amount of trepidation as well, and the only reason my surgery was scheduled when it was, was because my knee replacement surgery got put on pause because of covid-19 (surgeries were postponed due the Delta variant surge). The surgery did put some extra strain on my knees as you try to get up/down with bending. You never realize how much you bend standing up from a chair until somebody tells you they don't want you to. But hey... I now get to add 5 Lbs additional lifting weight per week and actually get back in gym before long. Initially I was not allowed to lift anything over the weight of a jug of milk. I am still walking as I am able and when my knees allow. Doing about 2 miles/day. Overall though... The whole surgical process was fast.. I was in a 6:30 am and home same day at 6pm. Had I not been able to make the PT folks happy, they probably would have kept me overnight. At this point in time, I still feel like I am feeling things in my lower back, kind of like I'm laying on a plate, but my doctor says that is just a process of my muscles still healing together, and they get pretty firm during that process. Oh, and I gained an inch and a half in height as they cinched down those rods. LOL LOL. I have regained the height I've lost over my lifetime as I shrunk his most will do overtime. I guess I would summarize, and aligned with what Kyle has stated and that is you really trading a short period of relatively reasonably significant pain for a life of ongoing pain. I opted to try to get rid of the long-term pain. I am very happy I did! Good luck to all of you considering this and don't be fearful, just make sure you have a good surgeon. Thanks for your video Kyle. I think it is useful for folks to share their experiences like this, for the internet can scare the crap out of you and perhaps make you not do the right thing.
Better take care of back , weight and health . My L-4-5 Laminectomy was in 93 . Whole spine collapsed now . Around 50 things got bad now 63 can barely walk .
I'm 80 years old and have been told I need this surgery. I've done physical therapy and Chiropractic and now have no pain. I'm still walking with a walker but very afraid of surgery at this age. Thank you for sharing this. If it comes to this I'll be less afraid.
Thank you Kyle for making this video. I scared as sh**8. Second Surgery date 1/23/2020. In February 2019, I had a microdiscectomy of my L5 S1 nerve because I woke up one morning and dropped from my bed. I couldn't walk. I thought I was paralysis. I was screaming for my 16 yr old son to drag me to the bathroom so I wouldn't urine on myself. I was in and out the ER for 2 weeks (every 2 days) crying fighting paying $75 co pays each visit until I had to bring in my MRI to show proof that I couldn't apply pressure to my left leg/foot. Then they finally admitted me. You should have seen my MRI, it looked like a Milky Way of fragments from the herniated disc was surrounding/attacking my nerve. I was in soo much pain, I was drugged up from Friday until Monday when the Orthopedic team agreed I was a candidate for surgery. After surgery, I was out the hospital in two days. Then in May, I herniated the disc again by sneezing. Exactly! I couldn't move out my bed for an hour. I cried because I felt stuck. Then (3) several epidural injections 3 months back to back. Didn't help. Then I started going to a chiropractor last month. And she actually help relieve the nerve pain on my left side of my leg & butt. I don't limp when I walk anymore. My orthopedic surgeon was upset that I had adjustments to my lower back. He believes the extra disc herniation (compared to May MRI) came from the adjustments based on my MRI, Xray, CT scan. But at that time, I only had 3 Chiropractor sessions. My L5 is pretty much bone to bone, disc showing pressing on nerve and squeeze out & slight fluid in my back. So now the only pain I have is muscle back pain when I sit too long in one spot. My chiropractor is against surgery due to the fact its only one herniated disc. In my heart I'm asking God to give me more time or show me a sign that I don't need this surgery and that the disc popped back in. I just have too much happening in my life of starting my business and I don't need another set back. Pray for me.
Congratulations! I myself have had many (20+) spinal surgeries over my lifetime due to a spinal deformity and I have been through it all. It is refreshing to finally hear someone speak truthfully about their experience and not exaggerate the negatives on what spinal surgery is about. In my experience, the chronic pain I felt every day prior to surgery was far worse than the acute pain you feel right after surgery. And then every day after that, your pain reduces dramatically. It is the excitement of being able to actually move, (or in my case...walk again), that makes me question why I was ever scared in the first place. Today I am 3 years out of a 7 surgical procedures (over a 2 mo. hospital stay) Full Spinal Reconstruction surgery that took me from a life of wheelchairs to now walking on my own. Thank you for sharing your Success Story to show others how amazing life can possibly be when you take that leap of faith and don't listen to the naysayers. Best of Luck!
Beth Anne Richardson Thank you for your kind words and for being an encouragement to others. Everyone's experience is different as I said but they are not all bad. It can be life changing for sure. I hope and pray you continue to improve. Have a great day....
Beth Anne Richardson my you please share with me your email or instagram so that we may talk. I myself have a spinal deformity as well as other issues with my spine. I would love to talk to you as you have given me hope in the middle of my anxiety and fear. Thanks.
He told me that it wouldn't help with back pain, which wasn't my problem. I was having pain in my right buttocks and leg. He told me ahead of time that this would correct it. It did, thanks Kyle. Sorry to hear yours didn't go so well.
Hi , I am Katia, I had twice a hernia disc operation , and the hernia is coming always back at the same place, the surgeon now also suggested a fusion , but as you say we are all different. With me the pain is only very heavy in the lower back but with shooting pains, and sometimes it shoots tô my butt. And not only that I also have artrose in my hips...they told me that in the future I probably need hip replacement...not nice to here something like that if you are 48 only...I normally like to hit the gym but didn't go for almost one year and it's making me so depressed!!! But when I saw the screws they put I already freaked out ....so I will think about it very long and try to go to the gym for stretch and try to work on my abdomen to make them strong again and also my lower back muscle.....if that doesn't work ...I would do it also.... You are very brave thanks for sharing your story 🙏🏼💋
Earl Harman hey man, do u have any physical limitations now that u had the surgery? ive heard people cant bend at the waist after they have this surgery. can you do everything u could before the surgery, except now with no pain? thanks!
Thankyou kyle, you have helped me so much, i have just had l5s1 tlif 4days ago, i thought i made a mistake, i am in more pain now ,triple painkillers, but hearing your story lifted me. Your story mirrored my story, i was a roofer and had a fall 15yrs ago but didnt know i damaged anything till 4mths ago, same thing with me in shopping malls or large building sites. I look forward to reading your other posts.👍👊
Me too. Its 4 th week po surgery. Infact very painfull than before. But when heared patients experience it s common. Time will b change everything. I have still pain in lowerback.sitting is most painful
I’m about to get my surgery L3,4,5. Thank you for being proactive and sharing your experience!! This was definitely worth watching and hearing someone else’s story. I’m grateful to not be alone in this!
Hello sir. How was your fusion? I had mine done last sept 24 L4, L5, S1 and im still at the hospital right now its nov3.. Do you still experience back pain while doing simple tasks like washing your hands at the sink? Or wearing your underwear while standing up?
@@francismancao I have had good results so far! My surgery was Oct. 7th of this year. I was up walking within hours of waking up and was released from the hospital the next day. I'll be one month post-op this Wednesday. I walk about 1.5 to 2 miles a day and am working back into chores around the house. Tasks away from my body or over my head still cause more strain on the back than holding weight tight against my body. Hand washing can be slightly uncomfortable, I tend to push my thighs into the cabinet and brace the weight that way. Most of my pain is gone. I'm off pain killers and muscle relaxers on a daily basis, but do still take one if needed now and then. Started physical therapy today, it went well but drained me of energy quickly. The hardware seems to be the worst part for me now, getting used to feeling it and hopefully I won't notice it as much going forward. All my pain and numbness/tingling cause by a herniated disc and spondylolisthesis is gone! Getting better everyday. I hope you are ok! Not sure why you're still in the hospital, but stay strong. I had dark days. It's a long healing process... One day at a time 💪
@@matthewbackstrom2104 hi sir. Sorry for the late reply.. I was finally discharged from the hospital last november 10 and i really felt good. No more scatica/ radiculopathy pain.. Just some stiff lowerback feeling... Are you going to have your implant removed in the future? Or will you just leave it there? Hope all is well sir!
@@francismancao Glad you are doing better! I've only just recently (a week or so) been aware that removal was an option. I always assumed they would just be there forever. I'm going to ask my surgeon about it. Not really sure how long you have to wait before it's possible. I am only 6 weeks post-op, so I know my fusion isn't finished healing yet, but I can tell already that most of my discomfort is from the hardware. I'd kind of like it gone, but I notice it less each week that goes by. Time will tell I guess. I'm certainly not ready to jump back into surgery just yet!
I’ve been dealing with the same pain for about 5yrs and have completely lost feeling in lefts side and praying that the do something soon I’m 31 and want to be able to run after my kids! Your video just gave me hope! Doctor finally recommending me to spine specialist I don’t want to be paralyzed at 35
Hello Kyle, thank you for your reply even after all this time that’s gone by. I haven’t had the type of recovery you’ve experienced but I’ve come to accept that I’m only going to recover to where I am but at am at a comfortable point. And that’s probably for two reasons. 1) I’d say I’m considerably older than you (71), 69 when I had the surgery’s and (2) I have what has been diagnosed as nerve damage that effects both lower legs, which has left me with some instability. I still have back pain that is “mainly” mild but does still limit how much I can walk or stand before I have to sit down. The positive thing with having the surgery is it has stopped the collapse I’ve experienced over a good number of years, going from 5’10” to 5’ 8”. The surgery gave me back one inch. My best wishes for you that you are still benefiting from your surgery.
Good video, thanks. I'm in the same boat, was in a motorcycle accident and have a herniated l4-l5 and will need fusion surgery but I'm terrified to do it. However I've been in so much pain for the last 5 years that I'm ready to do anything, can't go on like this that's for sure... your video is comforting knowing that not everyone has a bad experience. Thanks Kyle
I appreciate you sharing this video. I know it is 5 years old, but it brings me encouragement. I’m on Day 6 of recovery from L3, L4 Spinal fusion. Like you, I’m a Christian and my faith is in God for healing and healthy recovery. A lot of people praying for me. Long story short, been having serve nerve pain since June of 2018. I was a Law Enforcement Officer and chase down a suspect for a half a mile and got into a violent fight afterwards. Started having back pain a week later, to the point where I could not walk or no longer do my job because of the nerve pain and had to retire. Had several injections into my spine, countless hours of P.T. and acupuncture. Nothing helped. After a long battle with workman’s comp, and seeing a good orthopedic, who saw my condition, I was finally able to get my spinal fusion surgery. On day 6 of recovery. Can’t wait to make it to the 4 week mark. God bless
I’m 4weeks post opp. I had l3,l4,l5,s1. I’ve been dealing with pain in my right leg down to my knee when I sat. When I stood my left leg would go numb. This has been going on for 20 yrs. just within the last 3 years it progressively got worse. So I pulled the trigger on the inevitable. Tell you what. It was the best decision I made. I have no more pain or numbness. I only used a walker in the hospital. I’ve been able to walk a mile for the 1st week. The second I can do more. I’m up to 4 miles on a bike and over 2 walking. I’m able to lift up to 25 lbs and can do machines at the gym that supports my back with light weights. I’m also supposed to be off the back brace within 8wks of my surgery. Like the video says. “Keep the faith”
Great to hear!!!!!! 4 weeks out for me anterior and posterior l4,5 S1. 2surgeries back to back. Was in ICU for 2days. My digestive system shut down so was in hospital for 10 days. Thank you God for getting me home! My feet are more on fire than before, that could be a great thing . Nerves could be healing and just firing up! So we will see how it goes. LOL I said the same as far as "if I would do it over" NO WAY. However each day is a better day! I have faith as well and God willing I will heal to be better than pre surgery. Really happy for you👍 up and onward! God bless
Im 70 and been in pain for years. Now cant be on my feet for more than 5 minutes at a time the pain gets so severe. Im having fusion and decompression in a few days. This gives me hope. Thank you for posting.
I am also 70 and one week post op, the pain I had before fusing three vertebrae was pure agony, I couldn’t walk without a stick and sometimes I just couldn’t walk. I too was really frightened about surgery but I felt I had nothing to lose in the end. When I awoke it was instant, the agonizing pain had gone. I am still very sore but every day I feel a little stronger. Best surgery I have had, it certainly has changed my life.
Man, I've been avoiding surgery since 1999. I go in for L2 thru L5 fusion next week. Thanks for the encouragement. I'm 60 years old now and worried like a crybaby sissy gurl. Absolutely trusting in God to pull this off.
Thanks for the video. I just was told this morning that I will need a fusion at L4-5 and while I'm looking forward to the idea of being pain free, the actual procedures involved are scaring me a lot! I don't know what I'm going to decide but your video gives me hope 😊
Kyle - Thanks for sharing your experience with back surgery and thanks for helping to generate so many comments about back surgery, they are really very helpful.
Thank-you for the video. I can relate to everything you went through before your surgery. It's where I am now. and yes, even the scared to death part. You can just tell you're a good man and speaking from your heart. I appreciate your time with the video. It helps.
My hubby had his appointment with the surgeon yesterday, after being in tremendous pain for the past 2years, he is also in the construction industry (working foreman). We was told that he has L5 and L6 slipped discs that have slipped out and dipped downwards. He is needing to have this operation ASAP. But he continues to work which I'm super worried that he will make it worse. I'm so pleased to hear that your doing well sweetie. I watched this with my hubby being in the same industry as you this I hope done some good for him. Thank you so much for sharing.
Thank you Br. KYLE for taking the time to assure someone like me who just had a similar surgery ,yesterday. I'm in a recovery mode still ( 24 hours after surgery). Your words were very assuring to me. Thank You, My Br. in Humanity.👍👍
Hi Kyle. I am having spinal fusion L4 L5, spondylolisthesis surgery Friday February 3, 2017. I received a great deal of comfort from your video. You give me hope. Thank you.
Wow, I am ok. not ready for Olympic anything yet. Haha. Spent some time at Rehab facility, learned a lot. Still having some pain but not like before. This is more muscle pain from trying to maneuver through the house.
hi! im having the same exact surgery this summer. i was wondering, do u have any physical limitations now that the fusion was done? can u bend at the waist and touch ur toes? can you twist at the waist? can u lean side to side?
Thanks for sharing this Kyle. I am pending an L3-S1 fusion in three weeks. I have been dealing with bad back pain for a over 10 years but am still very active. Been on the fence about having this surgery. Your video makes me me feel better about having the surgery.
Just came across your video. I had spinal infusion surgery on November 2. Today is December 11, 5 1/2 weeks out from surgery. I felt the same way in the beginning about whether or not to have the surgery especially since I’d already had back surgery on February 23 of 2021. My first surgery was for decompression, which required an incision of about 5 to 6 inches long. This infusion surgery had eight 1 inch incisions, four on each side of the spine and one on my left side. This surgery was probably fivefold the amount of pain I experienced post op. I woke up from the surgery in excruciating pain, but shockingly I was well enough the next morning that I was able to go home around noon time. My surgery was done about 8:30 the morning before. I am a bit jealous that you have been able to do the things you are so quickly after your surgery. I am still dealing with different types of pains that I never thought I would be dealing with, and I’m still using a walker. I have to use a walker primarily because I developed a what I believe to be muscular pain on my right side, which is extremely painful at times so it makes it more comfortable to use the walker. I am going to physical therapy, but it is only for my legs right now to strengthen and condition them since I am experiencing types of leg pain I have never had before. In response to what you said, I think in the beginning of your video as to whether or not you would have this surgery, although I am still in some amount of pain and still using a walker for the most part, I can see light at the end of the tunnel and believe that I will be in a much better position then I was after the first surgery. Congrats on your tremendous improvement you are experiencing despite your complications. I hope after the next two or three months I will see myself much closer to “normal” than even before the first surgery.
Thank you for posting this because I was getting anxious about my pain , it will be only 2 weeks tomorrow for fusion 3 and 4 and yesterday starting getting nerve pain down the front of my legs but after seeing you video in more encourager , Still on Gabapentin and hydrocodone trying to get off the pain med !Im going for a walk like they told me so I can build up myself back up because I use to swim but can't till my incisions heal Thanks again!
Just saw my doctor this week and I decided to have L4-5 spinal fusion surgery 55yo blk male, been deal with it for 10 years now just so worn out with the pain just want to get my life back your video was a great help thank you for sharing.
I can't thank you enough +Kyle Peek for posting this video. I will be having surgery on my lower back two weeks from today. I will have fusions as well as laminectomies on L1-L5. I am in a tremendous amount of pain, just as you were, so I just couldn't put the surgery off anymore. I am terrified but your video gives me hope. You have also inspired me to make a video series of my experiences as well so that maybe I can help others the way you have helped me. Thank you!!
Karma Cristie I'm so glad it helped you. I never dreamed so many people would watch this video and I think it's a great idea for you to do one as well. Good luck on your surgery, let me know how it goes and I will say a prayer for you.
Steve, thanks for reaching out. My pain level was maybe a 6 or 7 before the surgery. I could manage it with meds but the loosing feeling in my legs was scaring me. I have been playing golf now for about 7 months and believe it or not my game has improved. I've lost some distance but I hit it much straighter now, I don't swing nearly as hard. As far as the toilet, yep it's true. I think some people probably leave that part out and I hadn't heard that either but I can tell you it's not an easy task for a while. All and all I feel pretty good right now. I'm about 17 months post surgery and I'm feeling pretty good. Not 100%, I don't think you will ever be that again but the pain and loss of feeling are gone and that's an awesome outcome if you've had back issues for a while. There are still things I can't do or lift and things I just shouldn't do period but for the most part my quality of Life has improved dramatically. I hope your surgery goes well, don't hesitate to ask any questions.
Thank you! This video was extremely helpful. I've had back pain for over 15 years. I'm ready to get something done. Medicine and physical therapy no longer works.
Thanks for your words of encouragement. My L4, L5 has deteriorated to the point of constant chronic pain. I am having a fresh MRI done next week and then have surgery soon.
Hi Kyle! I'm happy that I found your video. I'll be having the same procedure in a couple of months. I'm still afraid of having it done, but I hate pain and even worse have to take narcotics. I hope to have the same outcome as you, it ain't easy to live with pain for 10 years. Thanks for posting the video I feel much better.
Hello Kyle I had spine surgery 02/09/2017 on my lower lumbar, which turned out to be broke. Because of Spinal Stenosis, I know need a Spinal Fusion 11/30/2017. I've been trying to watch videos ask questions to convenience me not to be afraid. I'm 44 years old and it's not so much the surgery, it's the part about being dependent on another. See in my case, I'm Wife, Mother, Granny, Doctor, Teacher,Cleaners, House Keeper, Plumber, Cook etc. I fall my whole world I believe will come crumbling down around me trying to heal. I'm mortified of the healing process. I can say you were the shortest heal time. Thanks for your words of encouragement.
Thanks for making and sharing this video!! I just got mine done, I was literally feeling the same way you were, even up to the day of the surgery. It’s been only 4 days and I’m walking around with some assistances to none, but I do have pain. The first couple of nights so far have been the worst but I couldn’t be any happier, especially that I lived with the shooting and numbness pain for approximately 7yrs.. definitely great seeing others posting their testimony and hopefully I’ll make one too soon.
Thank you for the video, this is my second noninvasive surgery and it is the most painful compared to my first, though the first Surgery i was a lot younger and wasn't as extensive as this second one, the good thing about both Surgeries is that i had the same surgeon, one thing you mentioned in your Video that grabbed my attention was the support you had, i really believe that is what really helps get a person through anything in life, if not for my Son being here i don't know if i would have what it takes. Anyway, Thanks again and God bless
Hi Edwin just saw your comment after 4 years... Really wanna know that how your surgery went? And can you please tell me at what age you had your 1st surgery? And at what age you had your second one.?
Thank You Kyle Im glad to hear you are doing so good. My first surgery for ruptured L5 Dec 2017 did not work and my pain began to worsen,my Dr did not take me seriously until my 6mo check up ... Then I have waited to get a second opinion for fusion ...#2 Doc wanted a Discogram and we found I have 3 levels causing pain and the original disc had ruptured again so I am facing potentially a 3 level fusion now. I am like you nothing much keeps me down I went back to work at 2 1/2 weeks post op last time and I feel I over did it. I cant even do my own shopping for the pain at this time. I am 54 and have worked with animals most of my life the last 12 years I have been a nurse manager at a animal ER I am worried I will no longer be able to stay in this field of work and have no idea what to do with myself now. There are truly so many factors that can effect your healing process. I had a cervical fusion in my 30's after having 2 kids and that was a walk in the park compared to this lower back pain.
Thanks for sharing. I am scheduled for Nov 1st. Had a hip resurfacing last Feb. That was fantastic as it took the pain away. Surgical pain is tolerable as it lessens in time.
Kyle this video is very encouraging. My husband is scheduled for this surgery in two weeks and I'm a little scared because he also has ulcerative colitis and takes meds to suppress his immune system. This is a concern with his ability to heal in a timely matter. The doctor said he was at low risk and we are are Christians as well so we're keeping that in prayer as the surgery date approaches. I'm thankful it went well for you and praying the same for my husband. Thanks again for your encouragement! :)
Hi Kyle. Brad is about 2 1/2 week post op and he has had some relief and he is up and walking better but he is having terrible sciatic pain. It's to the point that he's been in tears. Did you feel a lot of sciatic pain too? It's way worse than before surgery even. Does this ever settle down??
Jana Vanderburg yes, I had it as well and it was terrible, mine went away after about a month or so. I was told it was normal and would go away after the nerves all healed and the swelling went down that is pushing on it now. Thank god it did because that was not fun. Good luck and I hope he turns the corner soon.
Thanks for sharing man, I was fused from T10-L4. Had multiple compression fractures. I was in ICU for 1&1/2 weeks and transported to the rehab floor for another 2&1/2 weeks. fast-forward 7 months from the accident/surgery, I still cant pick up heavy objects from the ground, I still cant run, BUT I can now go on long walks. I am back in school to change career paths (I was an arborist) I can go wherever I want. Ill never play competitive soccer again, nor will I ever snowboard. But to compromise I have picked up fly fishing and absolutely love it. I hadn't been to church in years but I haven't missed a week since I was able to. God may take the greatest of tragedies and orchestrate them out to be the biggest blessings. I wish upon nobody to go through what I have been through, but If you must know, it is worth it. I'm already doing activities to which I hadn't imagined I could do ever again. God Bless.
Steve, sorry to hear that but hang in there it'll get better. I had, not severe but bad nerve pain for several months after my surgery and took Gabapentin for a few months until it went away and it did go away after a while. I was told that the nerves were just firing and irritated after being pinched off for so long and then moved around during the surgery. It took a good 6 to 8 weeks for the pain to go down and get off so much meds but I'm still feeling great for the most part. I seem to be a little stiffer than I was but no pain. Keep me posted on your progress and I'll keep you in my prayers. Good luck.......
This is very important information he just provided. Too many people talk about their surgery and how great they feel afterwards, but somehow fail to mention that in many cases the nerve pain continues for several months after surgery. This does not mean surgery was a failure or you had a bad surgeon. This is very normal, so do just as Kyle did: Keep taking that Gabapentin until your nerves heal enough to stop hurting. That day will come but you just gotta be patient. Nerves are unlike any other part of your body in that they just take a long time to heal.
Thank you for this!! Second positive outcome I've found in one day after weeks of countless horror stories! I've been on the fence scheduling and now feel more confident in doing so. Hope your life has been going well since your surgery. God Bless.
Thanks for posting this. I have been in pain forever and finally have a window at work where I can get this done. 53 and huge herniation at L4-5 and decent size L3-4
Its been 7 months for me and im still using a walker, my surgery was the whole thorax had to be replaced, sometime I have pain but its not like in the beginning. I have 3 rods and over 20 screws and im just praying i will get better... i am 58.
I'm 2 1/2 years post l4 and l5 fusion and what I'm left with is sever siactica in my hip and right leg. I do calisthenics every morning to get moving and for walks every other day depending on the weather which now dictates my activity.. I'm 400.000 light years from what I use to be hope things get better soon but I'm a fighter.
I'm 19 years old and I have scoliosis, in 2012 I had a full spinal fusion so basically the only vertebrae that move are in my neck and in my sacrum and then in 2014 I had about 3 inches of the hardware removed in my thoracic area because some of it came loose and it was starting to show through my skin and now in 2017 my legs go numb all the time and I have trouble urinating so I'm having all of the hardware removed. I am hopeful that this will be the solution to my pain, numbness, and troubling going to the bathroom. If this surgery is successful I will hopefully be able to enroll in school again and be pain free. Thank you for making this video and easing my mind, this showed me that I'm not alone and with the right surgeon and plan, I can be pain free and I can be independent and successful again! You are about the same age as my father and he is my biggest supporter and stress reliever so just thank you again for the video, this helped a lot!
Thank you for posting. I'm scared to death. My legs go numb constantly. L4, l5 s1. My son will soon be going to college. I want to be able to be there for him. Prayerfully it will help.
ADOREREDD God is good and I'm sure you will get thru it fine just as I did. Scared is an understatement, I've been there and I know what you're feeling. Keep the faith do what your Dr says, give it over to God and you will be just fine. I'll say a prayer for you and hope you get some comfort.
hi my names justin, I'm 27 from Tuscaloosa al, I was hit on my motorcycle 9/21/14 , shattered my L3 , had my l1 l2 l4 and l5 fused, almost 2 years out in a couple day, still hurt day to day at times but for the most part just try to be careful with lifting and twisting, beats being in a wheel chair because of my wreck, it'll get better, life's a garden dig it brother!
@@makeupbykhani8178 my back is better sir just took another hit... lady pulled out I front of me 7/7/2020 I woke up a month and a half later. Broke my right leg at a 90 degree tibia and fibia , had to have a rod in my shin , 1 of my kidneys had to be removed, my left collar bone was broken, my right elbow was shattered had to be rebuilt... I’m done riding bikes for good and I’m blessed to be here, god is good!
thanks much for this Kyle. I'm having L3 - L5 fused on November 6th. Apprehensive, nervous and somewhat scared, but your story gives me hope. Thanks for sharing. Jeff in KY
Really quite good. You are right at 4 weeks out. 2-3 years ago I had 2-3 fused. However 4-5 seems a bit more tenderness, but really can't complain. I stopped pain pills after 2 days. Just took Tylenol when needed after that. I hate all "dope style" pain pills. Now looking forward to 6 weeks on May 4. At 77 years old every day is a challenge! Thanks for thinking of me.
Operations like yours are performed all over the world thousand times are a day don't put up with the pain with pain killers, don't go back to construction work either.Good luck.
I just had my second spinal fusion 4 days ago , am in so much pain don't know what to do, the first surgery was a failure the Dr. Kept telling me that I was gone heal but I never did I got worst, I went to another Dr. & he told me that the hardware was coming Loose, I had a wonderful Dr this time of course am in pain right now , that normal, but I think that am gone be fine🙏🏼🙏🏼hopefully
hazzatb I do feel better , but my back still not fused , don't know why? Cause the Dr. Took a lot of bone ,from my pelvis for the bone graft but my back still hurts , when I walk or do anything , I can't no longer work I resigned from my job 2 weeks ago , cause of the pain , I don't take narcotics , I just take meds to reduce the inflammation , on my last appointment he told me that my back was very inflame ,but I just gone live with the pain, cause I refused to have another spine surgery again,that is the worst surgery, i can't take the pain medicine after surgery ,either I was in a lot of pain after been in surgery for 8 hrs. I had a good Dr. this time , but my back was in bad shape , I had a tumor removed also, I just pray to God that it won't come back . Am glad surgery worked for you. God bless 🙏🏼
Hey Kyle, I was just told today that I need to have a PLIF L4-5 Fusion. Everything you said addressed where I'm at and feel that we have very similar situations that require surgical intervention. Thank you for posting this video and the encouragement you gave! God Bless!!!
I am kind of scared, Im having spinal fusion surgery in a month. Thanks for sharing your experience, I will be positive but there is no other way to get rid of the worst pain. Thank you!!! 👍 this will help me a lot 🌷
I just had one I was scared to death too.6 days post surgery feeling pretty good still very sore still talking pain meds not as much left leg still going numb!! think it will get better
@@Vanessa-ju8hv still have leg pain in calves post ten months I have failed back surgery same issues sometimes much worse prior to surgery. My was workman's comp. They don't care if you die. I wish you the best! Everybody is different
Thank you so much for sharing. My fiancé is going to be scheduling for his surgery here soon and to hear your story. It puts me at ease a bit. I know he’s scared as am I (especially after his consultation). I’m glad you had a speedy recovery. Again, thank you for sharing.
awesome to hear your story. I will soon be having surgery to remove a bulging disc and an L4/L5 fusion. Super nervous because I will have 2 surgeons. One going in the front through my stomach & the second surgeon will go through my back. I'm only 33 but I've been having back pain for 7 years. My condition has only gotten progressively worse. My quality of life sucks right now. As afraid as I am I can't wait to be able to function again. Work, go back to school, run around the block with my kids, get on a roller coaster ride, & whatever I've missed out on for 7 years.
Thank you for your testimony Kyle. I am only 10 days removed from my L4-S1 fusion. I notice I get stronger everyday but at the moment I am getting extremely sharp muscle spasms going down my right leg. The Dr. said the pain is coming from the nerves. It is very uncomfortable the only thing that gives me some relief is Percocet. Do you recall those sharp pains in your recovery and if so how long did that go in until it stopped? I am restricted now to short walks and I'm looking forward to increasing my distance and getting stronger. I hope you continue to have relief. Prayers going out to you.
Matthew Punako that is normal, scary yes, but normal. I had sharp pain in my nerves for about 2 months, I was given Gabapentin until it went away but it did go away eventually. Keep it up it gets better, lots of walking is the best thing to do.
Kyle Surgery was on sept 26 2017. It was a lot more than I anticipated. Had a reaction to the anesthesia dilaudid so first day was kinda a lost day. I also had an issue with shivering not cold they also thought it might have been a reaction to anesthesia. It is now 15 days out walking better but not pain free. Dr yesterday he said everything looks great and to just keep walking. I fooled myself in thinking I could go back to work after 3 weeks not going to happen. Dr said maybe light duty after 8 weeks. Taking Tylenol during the day and Hydros at night to help me sleep. He ended up doing Spinal Laminectomy with the Posterior Lumbar Fusion of L4 & L5 + L5 & S1. Thank You for your advice and I'm all ears if you have anything else to help me through this. Thank You Michael
Kyle, thanks of much for the video. After successful cervical surgery and 3 sort of successful lumbar surgeries, I am finally looking forward to a fusion to replace the intolerable pain I've had daily. I admire my surgeon's outlook, confidence and even his sense of humor. And your success and outlook gave me the hope I was looking for, so thanks again.
Hey Kyle, I had my L4 L5 TLIF surgery on 3/23/16 and the first 4 weeks recovery was as expected. However it is now 5 1/2 weeks post op and I still have back and nerve pain in legs. I have my 6 week post op appointment with surgeon on 5/4/16 and they will be doing x-Ray and ct scan so we will see what's going on. Disappointed so far because I have the same pain now that o had going into the surgery. I'm thinking that the L5 S1 level needs attention because I have a bulging disc at that level. Sucks. Anyway, How are you doing ?
I hate that for you , that's how I was after my first surgery, never got better, I just had another surgery 4 days ago , you're case sound like my, if you have all that pain your surgery didn't work , most likely you will need another one
Hey Kyle , Thanks for the video , I found it inspiring and am having a 2 level l4/L5 S1 fusion in 8 weeks . I'm going through an emotional rollercoaster right as everyone does . I injured my back and torn my glute lifting at work 14 months ago and I have been through the fight of my life , by being sent to bullshit doctors who work for insurance company . It's been hell and I finally found the best and surgeon who I had to fight to see and he is the best surgeon in my area . He has been fighting in my corner and I finally got the surgery approved . I trust him , the private hospital here is high quality. I am scared no doubt but I will get through it and come back stronger and pain free . Cheers 👍
Thanks for your video, I'm in for the same fusion next week and felt a bit crappy today as I thought I was having an artificial disc but due to other issues, it's going to be a fusion at L4/5 instead. I'm a (very) keen golfer and I've been really worried I'm not going to play again. Your vid has made me feel better - thanks 👍🏻 how long before you started playing golf again?
Simon, I didn't play for about 8 months and then I just took it real slow. The first few rounds I only played 9 or 10 holes because I just didn't want to push it. Now no problems and my score has dropped around 8 strokes or more simply because I just slowed everything down. Not all bad!!
+Kyle Peek thank you mate, feel a lot better about it all now, just been out to the store and just horrible annoying pain getting out of the car, carrying shopping etc.. Got to get this done, can't carry on like this! I've still been trying to play golf but has just about been pointless, hit my handicap once in last 2 years! 8 months sounds good to me - we're just coming up to Autumn/winter so I won't miss playing in the cold anyway! Thanks again, roll on next Thursday!
Thanks for posting this video! I'm 2 weeks out of L4/L5 L5-S1 fusion. I hear ya about this part of my recovery, and have been questioning if I had made a terrible decision. I'm too in a cold climate, so I feel ya there too. I was kept in the hospital for 4 days. I guess everyone, or every surgeon is different, as I was able to walk about 200 feet the second day post op. The hardest part for me right now is getting out of bed after resting a few minutes. I too was losing strength in my legs. My right foot is/was numb, as my left quad. I'm hoping to feel as good as you by week 6. I put the surgery off for over 2 years, as I was a stay home dad for the first 20 months. Once I felt she was ready for daycare, I was more than ready for surgery. I will reply to my reply at the 6 week mark to let everyone know how I'm doing.
Thanks for your honest approach, this is something I may be having done, so like you I've watched information on on tube and it's made me feel positive for this future life, thrives of being able to walk !y dogs again would be amazing, at the moment I can't walk without sticks and take a huge amount of medication for pain. Thanks for sharing your story x
Hey Kyle......So I had my 6 week post op appointment with surgeon yesterday. We did a CT scan and everything looks good. (screws are in the right place) Got clearance to drive and return to office work 4 hour days for next 6 weeks. I start pool therapy next week. They still stay pain will get better. I also take gabapentin daily and pain meds only evening and night. Surprised that they say I can take ibuprofen because it is a blood thinner. Anyway it was good to hear that your pain lingered for 8 weeks because I thought I was not a normal recovery. Did you still have back pain at 6 weeks because my pain is 50/50 back and leg nerves. Did the pain gradually decrease over what period and when were you basically pain free ? Thanks for your reply. Hope you are doing well.
May God continue to bless you! I am about 3 weeks post-op and can already tell a major, positive difference. I'm really excited to reach the point you are at, currently. Thank you so much for sharing your story!
Thank you SO much for this video! My lumbar fusion is on Monday and I'm pretty terrified--especially scared of the helplessness after surgery. Your video helped to quell those fears. Hopefully you're still doing wonderfully. :)
James McBride I am 54 and I have been doing fine but to be honest I have started to feel a little ache and pains starting to set in. Could just be the climate it's been down in the teens and 20's for a bit now but I feel it from time to time.
Kyle, Thanks for the reply every morning and through the day i am feeling worse. I feel like i am a crippled person. I hope they can do something for me. I have been waiting a month to see this doctor.
James McBride I hope you get in soon and they are able to deal with your pain. I understand believe me, I've been there, it can get better. Keep the faith.
Just had a spinal fusion of L3, L4, L5 W/"Cages" on 09-21-17. So Its been about a week now. My Orthopaedic Surgeon studied the procedure @ Swedish Hospital in Seattle, WA. I was walking on day 2, climbing stairs by day 3! Muscle spasms slowly began to subside. All of my pre-op symptoms (same as everyone's) are gone! Muscle-strength/control, is fantastic! Now looking forward to building my cardiovascular system back up after 10yr. of being sedentary. I'm 61yo. by the way. Just wanted to let folks know that there is hope! The Orthopedic Department @ Swedish Hospital has the Technology! The pain from the "less-invasive" surgery has been tolerable!🏋️♀️ Success❗️💪👏🏻
Thanks Kyle.....I had my surgery, L4-5 spinal fusion and decompression, 3 weeks ago. I watched your video and you need to know that you helped me a lot. I really needed to hear from someone who had been through this and could be honest enough to tell me what to expect. At least now I know that what I'm feeling now is normal, hopefully in a few weeks I'll feel a lot better like you did. Again, thanks so much... :)
Linda Amrein I'm so glad you are doing well. I'm also glad my video could be of some comfort to you and at least give you an idea of what to expect. It is a scary thing to go they no doubt, but you did it and your on the mend. I hope you continue to improve. Good luck!!!
Thank you for this Kyle!! I found your video RIGHT after I watched an actual surgery...and I wish that I hadn't! My fusion surgery is coming up in 3 weeks. You have made me feel much better!! THANK YOU!
Thank you Kyle after 3 weeks now I've got nerve pain in the bend of my opposite leg now and when I called for more pain mess they tell me I have to start winging myself off now I'm nervous, so it's a normal thing to get more nerve pain a few weeks after surgery?
I don't know if you still check comments on here, but I just wanted to say *THANK YOU*! I just scheduled my fusion today L5-S1 and after a few videos I was thinking, "Ok, I made the wrong decision, I can't go through with this." That terror definitely set in. Then your video showed up as "recommended" and I clicked on it. I'm so glad you're doing better, and thank you so much for sharing a POSITIVE outcome. It has inspired me to make a video for people if I, too, have a good outcome *Fingers double triple crossed* I hope you're still doing as well, or better! And if not, at least you have excellent doctors to return to if you ever have future back issues. A neurosurgeon is operating on me; he works with ortho MDs who've done my knee and ankle years ago, and they're the official team physicians for the Indianapolis Colts, so I hope they use the same skill on me! Ha! But at least I know they're good! Thanks again!!
Ava Anonymous I do still check them now and then. I’m glad the video could help you, I had no idea so many people would watch and take something away. I’m still doing good, a little more pain now and then but still way better than I was. Good luck and God bless.
Thanks for your experience on this. I had my first surgery in 2012 from S1 to L 3. That was a rough go and, I had emergency surgery 6 weeks ago. I had a Vertabrae twist and smash my spinal cord above my previous surgery at L1. All of my existing hardware was replaced with newer hardware so it could support the traversing length. I am recently divorced and I would have been in a tough spot if it wasn't for the amazing help from my daughter. Thank you so for sharing buddy, it's comforting to hear how other's are doing post op.
Thks for sharing your positive outcome. I’m currently waiting to have L4,5 &s1,fused using peek cage implants & rods. Have had cervical fusion yrs ago, but for some reason @ 67yrs this surgery scares more than cervical fusion, knee replacement, hernia repairs ...I have faith in my Doctors ability, but because I have a partially handicaphusband ( balance issues) I need to be able to care for him, he’s always been in my corner thru so many surgeries. Anyway enough about me your post was inspiring to go on...thank you again & best of health in the future. 👋🏻
Thanks for the welcome insight to surgery. I am having similar neurologic symptoms as the L4 has slipped over the L5. The thought of surgery scares me seriously but have a good team to help. It was The urologist that figured it out and the same concern with frequency! Ive been a tough capable construction contractor my whole life but this is a tough nut to crack in a timely manor. Can’t pick up my granddaughter so very frustrating. Anyway thanks for sharing your details, very helpful! Be well and enjoy your family. Skip
Thank God for your video I have all signs that you have from numbness in the legs to urinating issues glad to hear your doing better .It does hit you emotionally and physically but I have accepted to have surgery and after seeing your video I'm confident every thing will be ok. My prayers go out to you on your health.
Marc A I'm so glad it could be of some comfort to you. Good luck on your surgery and let me know how it goes. Keep the faith and you'll be in my prayers.
I had spinal fusion surgery on the L-4,L-5, & S-1 area about 4 weeks ago and this video was very helpful! I am still going through Physical therapy and as it was said during one of the replies to this, with the right doctor ( as was the case with me who was exceptional) and the right support, rehab has been going great!! I will be back playing basketball again soon as well as bowling!! I THANK GOD FOR THE FAITH, HOPE, AND TRUST WITH MY RECOVERY!! IT SHOULD BE NOTED THAT I AM 68 YEARS YOUNG!!
Hi Kyle, I’m glad I got to listen to your video and knowing how much pain you had before your surgery, after your surgery and how well your doing now gave me something to hold on and not to be afraid after being told by many, if you make such a surgery you will never walk again. To make a long story short, when I was 21 years old I got a diving accident (the bens) at T9 and was paralyzed from my waist down and after a couple of months my Dad arranged together with others to fly me to Holland to undergo revalidation. I was told I would never walk again still I regained some feeling, praying everyday and revalidating hard doing my utmost I and made it back into society after 3-1/2 years walking with one cane and left my wheelchair behind for anyone who might have needed it most. I’m born on the island of Curacao in the Caribbean took my hobby of diving and made it my profession sadly changed my life but thankful to God was given a second chance. I went on with my dream of becoming islands best outboard mechanic setup my own company and went on. Now at the age of 64 I’m confronted with lower back problems which started in 2013 and determined by an MRI have several underling problems and the pain really started worsening like 3 years ago, its terrible. After going ro several dockers and sergeants I was sent to a neurologist who took another MRI after I was sent to Colombia for an MRI there. My walking has deteriorated enormously the last past year but I’m still moving on not being able to walk or stand to long I now use a wheelchair to still enjoy life and yes, I still own a small company mostly doing special parts orders. After meeting a Neurosurgeon and took cortisone injections which did help a little for a few months, I’m now left with one last choice, surgery to my L4, L5 and L6, I’m still thinking. But thanks to Kyle’s video here on you tube explaining glad to have made the choice he took and now know I will go through a ruff time after surgery I’me determined to take the risk as now I’m on painkillers everyday. Kyle God Bless and I’ll get back to you once I have hauled thru surgery! Greets, John
Thank-you for creating this video and sharing! It is very helpful to hear the success stories because, as you said, there are so many horror stories people share that it makes it really hard to be willing to have the surgery. I am supposed to have an L5-S1 fusion and it has been a really hard decision to make because of all the fear of something going wrong. Thank-you!
Thank you! I have sergury in a couple of weeks and im petrified. Im glad you gave me some hope I can get throuhh this. I REALLY appreciciate this video.
Thanks so much for the video. I have had two laminectomies and now am looking at spinal fusion L5-S1. The recovery period has been my biggest concern. Your video put my mind at ease.
Thank you for making this video. My 39 year old son is facing this, but the docs hesitate to do it because of his age. I was looking for videos of personal stories about it. You really helped.
Surgery for me is at 7 am. I'm scared but trying to be tough for the family. Got to go through this alone because of the pandemic. I don't really have a choice, I feel like I am gonna lose my mind if I can't find relief from this pain. I'm grateful for the hope. Thank you.
Thank you I am scared seeing doctors Dec ...you declaring you were a Christian was a word for me to seek help ...I am 67 and run a Christian non profit and many many are praying ....God Bless You
Kyle, Many thanks for doing this video, it really has put my mind at rest. Like you say, there is so much doom and gloom on youtube regarding L5/S1 fusion that I was beginning to doubt having it, even though I can only really walk or stand for about 60 seconds at a time. I am having a laminectomy also. Thanks to you I know what to expect in the first few weeks and will be ready and waiting for the pain ;-) Once again, many thanks
Thank you for doing this video. I have been resisting L5 S1 surgery for two years. Now I am considering it because my pain is getting worse. Although I am still frightened, I welcomed your sincere comments. It gives me hope that I will do as well as you.
Good dr's have a lot to do with a good outcome. Make sure they have done plenty and are well versed in the procedure. Keep the faith, stay positive and you will do just fine.
Yes, I agree. That is so true. I do have great confidence in my doctor. Even though, he has been doing spine surgery for 20 years, I will be sure to ask how many surgeries he has done of the particular type I need. Thank you again!
thanks Kyle for posting this. as a police officer I'm scared that I will not be able to continue doing what I love. now I feel relief after watching this.
