Need Help on Back Surgery

[NitroJunky]

So I have been searching around trying to find people in my similiar case but haven't been able to come up with much info. So I decided to turn to my SW brothers for help. Here it is.

I'm 35yrs old and have been riding sleds for 14yrs. I still remember the first time I went like it was yesterday. I love the sport. I love the friends. I love the times.

So in January of this year I herniated my L5/S1 disc while out sledding in MT. It was a plainful 20 mile ride back to the truck. An additionally painful ride in the truck for 1.5 hrs back to the house. Finally back I visit the Urgent Care, then the ER (morphin drip 0 ) then into the Neuorsurgen for an eval. They recommend getting the steriod injection. Ok sounds good. Pain releif last for about 3 days, then full tilt again. Pain in my lower back, right butt, right hamstring, right calf and then numbness in my right foot. To the point that it affects my sleep and work.

Then they recommend a microdiscectomy. So I had that in May. They found a bone spur that was pushing against my nerve. WOW!! I felt 80% better just coming out of surgery. This followed by 6 weeks of down time and then 8 weeks of PT. I was on my way to 100%. Then in September I was standing in my garage talking on the phone and felt a sharp, short pain in my lower back. 5 minutes later I was lying on the garage floor in pain. Same symptoms back and this time a shooting pain in my right knee. As if it is going to explode.

I revisit the same Dr and he says that I am one of the 6% that re-herniate a disc within a year. Now the disc has collasped even more and my L5 has moved sligthly. Now it is time for fusion he says. The plan is to do a MIS TLIF (minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion). Check out info/videos on google. It is quite interesting what they can do these days.

I have a wife and three kids that I need to support and I really don't want to give up the sledding, riding rzrs, snowboarding and other things that we all do as a family. I want to know that I'll be able to do backflips on the trampoline again.

My questions out to you all are:

1) Has anyone on the forums had this procedure? How many herniated discs do to sledding are out there?
2) If so, what was the outcome. What led you to going with that vs just living with it.
3) Were there any complications
4) How do you feel today? How long was the actual recovery? What is your mobility like? How is your quality of life?

The Dr. says that I could be released with no restrictions in as little as 12 weeks. He says that if I played in the NFL he would still release me without restrictions in that time period.

Your Thoughts and Experiences?

Thanks you in advance.

 

[Headrush]

I feel your pain. I herniated a disk about 13 years ago. I had all of the same symptoms you had prior to. Although, I didn't go to the hospital initially, I laid in bed in excruciating pain for about 3 days. When I finally went, my primary physician scheduled a MRI. That is how they diagnosed the herniation. I was fairly young at the time and was absolutely against any type of spinal type surgery. I went to PT for several months and worked on my flexibility and core strengthening. Luckily, I have never had surgery - I do get twinges in my back periodically and I know to take it very easy when I do. I am not as wild and active doing dumbstuff as i used to, because I never want to feel that pain again. My advice would be get a few other opinions and see what some say. In my case, my disk shrunk enough after the herniation that I did not require surgery. Where do you live? Do you have a few spine Dr.s you can see?

Good luck.

 

[phatty]

Take your time recovering from surgery. DONT PUSH IT.
Stretch and strength your core.
Yoga is really good. The stronger you can make your core and back muscles the less pressure there will be on your spine and nerve.
A good diet and exercise plan will do alot for you too. Decompression table (inversion table) will help too.

There is no cure all for the back. Its more a puzzle and the more pieces you can put into place the better off you are going to be. I was lucky and only had 2 bulged discs and a schmorl's node that was pinching my nerve. but it was a long rode to recovery. Dont give up!

 

[Givemeaboost]

Good Luck !

I hope for the best for you. I had my back fused (L5 S1 also) in August of 1980. I'm sure the surgery is quite different these days. Because I smoked back then they had to take the donor bone out of my hip instead of using cadaver bone. They didn't use any plates or screws like they use nowdays so I had to be completely immobilized in a circular bed that they rotated every four hours to flip me from my back to my stomach. This took 10 days for the bone to start growing together before I could get out of that damn bed. I had my neck fused in 07 and they used the cadaver bone with stainless screws and plates and I was out of the hospital within 36 hours so hopefully for you that will be how they fix your lower back. I still have pain in both but haven't given up on sledding and I ride the heaviest one out there.

Ken..........

 

[tswan]

I had a L4-S1 fusion 3 years ago. I was in the same boat. It was my second back surgery and I was only 36. I can honestly say that it was the best thing ever. When I had my first surgery in 97 it was clear to my doctor that I was going to have to do the fusion. We just put it off as long as possible. I had the surgery in Sept. and I was riding snowmobiles again by the middle of December. I still ride dirt bikes and just went on a 15 day hunt. Fore me it was a very quick recovery. I recommend walking a lot, don't lift anything until the doctor clears you and do some physical therapy. They will give you a variety of exercises to do. You can pick and chose what works for you. Everybody heals differently, take your time and don't push it to much. I walked on the treadmill or outside twice a day for at least 2 hours each time. The only thing that has changed is I have to go to the gym and do exercises at least every two days or my back will stiffen up and get sore. Keep moving and good luck.

 

[Team X-treme]

I had L5-S1 fusion 9 years ago I was 35 also at the time. I wouldn't hesitate to have it at all. Do it now when you're younger and active. I was riding snowmobile 1 year exactly after my surgery. Follow the Doctors rehab and go to therapy, do a lot of walking and stretching. I lift weights and run and have not had any problems since. One thing that I do religiously is stretch. Everyday it only takes 10 minutes!!!

 

[m8magicandmystery]

this thread I am following, I just got flown out last week for full back MRI although for certain I have issues in AT LEAST the L5 region, I can work in one spot croUched or whatever,even upside down and lift decent weights but as soon as my back is straight or climb two or three stairs my legs are weak and numb and as time goes on stabs of pain,the neorsurgeon indicates blood flow diminished to nerves when spinal canal is at narrowest point which is standing.

So I have the results this coming Monday but all indications are either herniated or bone spur or whatever in the lowest lower back..so this thread is very informative and im glad I can ride without having my back straight..lol..

But since this started..last May the weakness in my legs have cause a class two sprain in my left ankle..a fall from 4 ft on top of a boiler to my right side with real bad rib bruising...haha..so it has some real effects on me so I am real real careful at work as its exhausting dealing with the weakness and the stabs of pain is not so bad but its just a real raw raw raw feeling like the nerves rubbing....

 

[vendetta]

Hey guys

Five years ago I had two herniated discs in my back and was off work for 7 months. I found a natural path that did prolo theropy on me and I've been riding ever since. My back almost feels better after riding. Lol. Hang in there you will get back on your sled I promise. Just takes time to heal up.

 

[powderpilot]

Wow, I really hope you have a full recovery!

I have two herniated discs in my neck (c5&6) from a recent car accident, plus severe spinal canal stenosis. Your comment about the backflips on the trampoline really hit home for me, I've made the same comment to my hubby several times.

For me it is about finding a way to manage the pain (narcotic free). It helps to realize there are people experiencing far greater challenges than myself and that helps me move forward every day. Physio, traction, massage, meditation, healthy diet, excersise etc. Try everything and if it works even a little, stick to it.

I told my dr I am not planning on changing my life because my physical situation has changed. I'll find a way to get in a few more backflips, I hope you do too

 

[joshkoltes]

What ever you decide stay in shape afterwords. I let my health out the window in the last four years and have constant pain all over. Obviously from nerve damage I crushed my l3 98% and had a bone stilt put in its place with a plate connecting l2 to l4 with no discs and some wood screws.
So do something its not going to fix itself

 

[PJ-Hunter]

I had a herniation or the L4, L5 and S1. Two rounds of injections and some very aggressive and long PT. I was riding the dirtbike the next weekend. I can do everything I could do before. Only thing I do is when I start to feel pain and stress in that area I stop doing whatever it was that I was doing. I stretch, ice and relax the area for a day or two. My injury stemmed from landscaping and common yard work. Stuff that you bend over to do.

I now weed my gardens on my knees instead of bending over. If I have to move a rock I use a dolly. I ask for help when I need it. God gave you just one back, screw it up and you are done. I don't care what the docs say, once you have surgery you will never be 100%. EVER. I know top many family and friends that have had surgery and they are in worse shape than I am. Know your limitations. And stay away from the backflips on the tramp. Land one bad just one time...... Do you want your kids to push you to the seats on their graduation in a wheelchair?

 

[M7CatGirl]

Hubby had the same thing happen. Had the MRI done and went to two different specialists. One said surgery was a must the other said no and if he gave it time to recover and did proper exercises he would be ok. He opted for no surgery but what he did do was acupuncture and within a few treatments he was feeling better and getting relief from the pain.

His back is not healed and he has to watch some of the things he does but we sled all winter (and we're not trail riders) and buggy all summer in the RZR.

Good luck and hope it all works out for u!

 

[sykosledhead]

NJ,<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-comfficeffice" /><o></o>
First I would like to say I do understand your situation and being a medical professional, would like to throw some perspectives out to help only. I am only wanting to give info to help you decide what will work best for you.<o></o>
I would first like to mention that even though two cases have similar diagnoses, each will have an entirely different presentation and outcome. It will be crazy difficult to say your outcome will even closely similar another case. There are too many factors to take into consideration. As stated, much will be what is found when (and if) the MD opens you up, what is done, (pins vs screws vs other hardware) and most of all recovery. I have worked with different folks that had total knee replacements on the same day and each will tolerate the surgery different, each will look at post surgery differently and most importantly PT differently. Nor should any of the outcomes mentioned here be anything more than knowledge to help prepare for (if you decide) the process involved. All SWers have the best intentions at heart and would do anything they deem possible to help but this will be a unique situation for you at best. Again, this isn't to hurt, but to help only.<o></o>
With that, I have worked with a couple folks that had this procedure and all recovered well. I would attribute this to: 1, the MD technique; 2. the pt's attitude toward healing; and 3. your persistence at your recovery. There will be no way to predict the outcome any better than what your ortho has stated. Additionally I would ask him (or her) for others that have had this done by them and contact them for advice. (references)<o></o>
As stated by M7, acupuncture is an option. But keep in mind this only works on muscle. If you have mechanical problems, you need a mechanical fix. I say this based on my brain surgery and the proximity of skull. I was under the impression no PT was needed since all they did was drill a big hole, do some cutting and close up. Not true because PT is to help heal the muscle and in my case, it was needed for my neck. In my case acupuncture did very little but message was very effective. Again each case will be unique.<o></o>
If I were to pass on anything today, I would say first do your research (understand what is broke, what is needed to fix, and how they will fix it), second understand what your MD wants to do and if you’re not convinced, get a second opinion; and lastly if you decide to do it, understand the milestones needed to get better. If you choose to have this done, it usually isn't a get it done and go riding kind of thing. It has to be priority #1 until you are completely healed. Example, my dad was a kind of guy who worked himself so hard to forget what was wrong and it'll go away (forget and it'll go away). He's has since passed away now from such notions.<o></o>
Lastly I would like to throw out that the back is the base for the rest of the body to work from. When the chassis (think of a sled) is bent and broken, the sled doesn't tract right or tears up other parts. This is no different than the back. Usually when you have back problems, waiting them out doesn't work. It usually gets worse. Something will need to be fixed or massaged or whatever the problem is. Another problem is when the back goes, it effects everything, interior and exterior. It isn't uncommon to lose control of bowel or bladder when nerves get pinched; or tingling down either or both legs; pain can lead to all sorts of problems.<o></o>
To finish up, I would say:<o></o>
1. Do your homework, don't be afraid to get a second opinion if needed<o></o>
2. Make a decision based on the long haul.<o></o>
3. Work your tail off at your recovery, follow the instructions to a tee.<o></o>
4. Maintain physical endurance as best as you can<o></o>
5. Expect to be laid up a longer time than expected (hope for sooner) and don't push your limits to the point of reinjure. <o></o>
6. Know that a true recovery expectation will not be clear until the procedure is done.<o></o>
7. Surgery may not be the answer. An ortho surgeon has the best opinion what needs done or not.

<o></o>
I'll cut this off. I hope this helps.

<o></o>
Some will complain of my post but please all remember, no two back pains are the same.
<o></o>
God bless good riding to you.
<o></o>
Syko<o></o>
<o> </o>

 

[NitroJunky]

Update

Thank you the everyone who has replied so far.

Here is some additional information.

I have had a second opinion. After reviewing my MRIs, X-Rays and medical information he too said that the MIS TLIF would be the procedure that he would perform on me. Another microdiscetomy could be performed, but that it would increase my chances of herniating the disc again and then I would for certan be in more pain and would then need the MIS TLIF anyway.

Just as before, after my first surgery, I have told the Dr that I work better when I have a goal in mind and we have already discussed my recovery actions. We will start with walking, then PT and then into more physical activities as he monitors me during the healing process.

Overall I feel pretty good about all the information I have gathered and I did have another consultation with him for about an hour. This was after I had done my research. I swear I must have asked 20+ questions. All of which I feel I got honest responses for.

My main reason for starting this post was that I was looking for sledders that have had similiar problems and surguries. Sledding in hard on the body and I figured if us sledders come out of the surgery with good success rate then the rest would just be icing on the cake.

Again, thank you to all that have replied and to those that may continue to replay. My surgery is schedule for Dec 5th. I will post some updates afterwards (good or bad).

 

[west dreams]

I had a L4L5 discectomy about 8 years ago. After a life time of my back going out doing stupid stuff like opening a door, I finally hurt it real bad, and after several rounds of steroid injections, traction, and PT I opted for the surgery. Because of the nerve damage I sustained it took me 2 years to get back to work, (nerves regenerate at a extremely slow pace), and I was as usual in that percent that are not better in the 6 to 12 week frame. Today my back has never felt better, It really is a change of life style, when people say stay in shape and keep up with your exercises take it seriously, and stretch every day. Another important fact is to buy a really good bed and pillow, I have a sleep # bed and I wake up great every morning. The only time I ever feel any real stiffness is when I skip my exercises and put on about 5 pounds. Be patient even when you feel better, and be diligent with your PT and it will come around. I wish you well with your procedure.

 

[SRXSRULE]

Here is my experience with this. My wife ruptured her L4S1 about 18 months ago. I did a bunch of research on it and decided that surgery would be the last resort. Too many bad results or bad side effect years after.

What we did was Ice (frozen water bottle, Directly on the skin) the area for 15 min at a time, 2-3 times a day. Then used a 30" exercise ball, sit down on it and bounce up and down for 5-10 minutes. This motion opens that joint up and gets the blood pumping through it. The blood is what heels the joint. Then took advil 2-3 times a day.

Do this for around 4-6 weeks and *** it gets better keep using the ball 3-5 times a week but no longer need the ice unless its getting sore.

After 4-6 months it was no longer an issue and has stayed that way for the last year. Clearly Im not a doctor, just wanted to share what work for us. Eric

 

[Mort2112]

Two bulging discs, 2 rounds of epidural and one round of steroid pills. Did great until two weeks ago tying a shoe, now I'm back to stretching and flexeril. I'll be sledding this season whilst stretching and hanging on my inversion table. Doc was clear that mine won't need surgery so I'm on the rest and stretch regimen. Back pain sucks....good luck.

 

[snowyo]

Wow,so many of us.Im scheduled for my second epidural shot within 3 months two weeks from now.Im on Nucynta($$) and flexeril for sleep.I was going to buy a new sled this year but i think i wont be pounding on the miles as usual so cancelled that.Sux.

oh mine are L4/L5 and L5/S1 which is being the real ignorant one right now.

 

[bholmlate]

Had fusion of L5/S1 in 98. I also had bone sprus which started to lock up my right hip because of the pressure on the nerves. it took my 25 minutes to stand up after sitting in a chair. That was really fun going to college and sitting through lectures let me tell you.

Two rods and 6 screws later i still enjoy an active lifestyle and things as normal as they can be. My back isn't perfect anymore and i have small issues i deal with from time to time but they by no means make me regret having surgery. the biggest thing i feel is going into it with a positive atttitude that things will improve after surgery. it definitely helped me work through my rehab.

 

[slash]

I feel good but dont ride as hard and I pay attention to the terrain more