Just watched your video and glad to hear your doing well. I’m 15 weeks post op from L3 spinal decompression surgery. I was slowly improving and really doing great till week 12. I’ve over done it and really struggling and don’t seem to be improving,3 weeks on with sciatica and can’t do much or feel I’m stood on 1 leg. Due to see the surgeon again next week and like you feel like my disc has herniated further. The worry in my head is unreal at this point.
That was incredible of you to share so honestly. I can sense the pain, and your open-ness gives permission to the rest of us who are struggling with pain and embarrassment and anger. I've got my endoscopic microdiscectomy in 2 days (after 1.5 years of pain and acute attacks) - will moderate my expectations to stick to a long, slow road towards rebuilding. Thanks again Dr Eric!
It went brilliantly! Years of pain gone in a day. Only wish I'd pushed for it sooner and not had to suffer from the deconditioning from being disabled for month. 3 months out now, and I'm back in a completely normal schedule.
Thankyou for leaving this unedited and laying it out plain. It helps to know that I am not the only one out there feeling this way. I am 32 years old and right up until my microdiscectomy a week ago the outdoors was my life/passion/purpose/soul. I was signed up to run my first ultramarathon in early 2025, and a hiking and mountaineering trip to NZ shortly after. I feel utterly devastated, like my body has betrayed me far too young, and every day I have to sit by idly as I lose a little bit more of me. And I know that there will be harder days to come, and then a long slow period of building back up, and likely some set backs along the way as well. However this video brings me a measure of solace, and shared hardship and hope that in 8 months time I will be speaking as you do too.
Very humbling to hear your journey. I’m scheduled for surgery in 2 weeks and honestly scared to death but the pain I deal with in the mornings is so bad I am in tears just trying to get to the bathroom. I have to pop Aleve and hobble around for an hr before I can even function. I’ve tried PT, read the Back Mechanic and the only 2 things that don’t make things worse are press ups and walking. Even that is all short lived as I wake up the next morning in the same amount of pain. I hear stories about people getting through these without surgery, but the pain in the mornings for me is so terrible, I don’t know how that’s possible.
i'm 24 years old and had intense leg pain and couldnt really sit for 1 year. And then 3 weeks ago i did endoscopic discectomy for L4/L5 and it was the best decision ever! I can really recomend do the endoscopic and not the micro surgery. i can already go jogging a little bit. and the surgery wasnt painfull at all because they dont open up your back.
Thanks for this vid. Most people don't know how painful a heniated disc/ sciatica can be and tell you that PT is all you need. BS I decided to do the same operation you did as soon as my ins aproves it. All your vids have given me hope. 👍👍👍 And what an adorable baby you got there. ❤❤❤
I'm glad my videos have given you hope! PT can help and most herniated discs will heal without surgery 90% of the time. However, in some cases they don't heal and require further medical intervention. It's definitely important to try conservative care first.
Hi, I am thinking about having a discectomy on my L5 S1. I have Glute pain whenever I sit. I heard you say you are starting dead lift again. There is no need to dead lift or squat. Take care of your back maybe hold on to a dumbbell and just do lunges. Or do lunges with just your bodyweight. I would stay away from anything that compresses the spine. Especially if it’s over 40 pounds because I know the barbell alone is 45 for an Olympic weight set. I know you probably have the knowledge of what your body can handle. I know I’ve seen enough videos of people who have re-herniated a disc because they go back to doing what they were doing, which caused the herniation of the disc. I know staying active is important. I hope you continue on your road to recovery.
Hi Steven I appreciate the advice. I do have a doctorate in physical therapy and can understand the concerns with weight lifting. There is a balance where you don't want to do too much but you also need to make sure that you are strengthening your body. Deadlifts and squats are functional lifts that we do every day including when I have to pick my daughter up off the floor, sit to stand while holding her, moving things around the house, etc. So it's important to train those movements but, yes you do need to make sure you have a plan that is appropriate.
This is very inspiring! I am 3 weeks post op from a L5-s1 foraminectomy. It’s definitely a difficult road. You think everything after surgery will be just great but it takes time! My nerves were very inflamed and pinched so still struggling a bit with pain and numbness tingling. My nurse take it week to week not day to day that way you see changes. I’m learning patience… be like a nerve take your time healing! 😊
I’m scheduled for a double laminectomy in 3 weeks, and am listening to other folks’ post op experiences. I appreciate your candor. I’m 75 now, and am hoping and praying for success.
I feel your pain man...I'm 2 months post op L4 L5 laminectomy and really struggling. Watching this gives me some hope that it will get better. Thanks man.
That type of pain can be traumatising as much as this all experience. I hope time will help in setting the emotional side of your story. I didn’t get any surgery yet but I know what you’re talking about, more than I like to admit. 🙏🏻
I feel ya bro. This is one of the most emasculating things that can happen to a man. You go from being able to flank down a 300lb calf to having trouble wiping. I'm there. God bless you, sir.
Thank you I understand your loss My whole life has been about movement I love to move and dance I love to play tennis and golf and now I'm just a former shred of a self I was I kind of lost my whole identity with. I cry alot.grieving my former self
Thanks for the video! I just had l5/s1 laminectomy and discectomy. You mentiomed at end pf your video tje nerve was impinged for 12 weeks or so, I think mine was roughly a year..I think i have a long road of recovery ahead of me. Glad you shared this video! The doc said my fluid inside the disk had been outside so long it calcified. Ive had pain shooting down my right leg into my foot since sept 2023. I just had surgery now in the States cause canadian Healthcare sucks to make a long story short, thus the long wait for surgery. Thanks for sharing man! It's been a week now post op, we (wife and daughter)hope to fly back this coming Saturday (Nov 23). Btw, im a little ahead of you with the kids situation, wife and I have 3 girls, 6, 5, 2. So irs been a rough year to say the least. Dont worry about crying man!. I've cried twice now in the last week thinking about the fact I've had surgery, more feeling sorry for myself in a way thinking about some of the physical things/projects ive done over the last year, it hurts knowing i used to be super active. Always had a physical job, etc. Anyhow, thanks again! Good tip on water therapy! I'll keep that in mind! Glad you had the surgery before kids, thats a huge bonus! And I'm 34 also (maybe a bit younger than you 😉)
I wish you the best of luck on your recovery! You've got this. It's all about slow, steady progress. I just deadlifted 230 lbs for 4 sets of 8 reps. I'm squatting over my body weight for reps again. It's just been a slow progress. I would recommend doing aquatic therapy if you can get in the pool. Let me know if you have any questions.
You functioned pre-op enough to create life - good for you! I had surgery a week and a half ago and currently I’m in severe pain. I am a widowed single mother and I am scared I pushed myself more than I should have. I was feeling great enough post surgery I was moving too much… thank you for your testimony-it definitely brings hope
I'm glad you were able to have the surgery you needed and that you're recovering. Thank you for sharing your experience with us and for allowing yourself to be so vulnerable. Your family is very fortunate to have you in their lives and they need you to be healthy!
Wow thanks for the update buddy , so helpful, the symptoms you had before surgery I’ve had and has a spinal block a couple of times , but it still it worsens after time , so I’ve decided to have surgery in Uk Spire Manchester, I’m having L3/4 lumbar decompression for stenosis, if that helps you to know about that procedure, Ex military 25 yrs in Marines Uk , and currently in UAE working with There Military, it’s tuff buddy watch you get through this video, I feel you man , 💯😉👊💪, I had my hips replaced both of them and like you fit all my life , running at county level and football, but all taken away from me , and being a high operating level in Marines, I hope your ok and keep battling buddy im with You ,
Thanks so much for the kind words! I do believe that you can continue to heal and improve if you give your body what it needs. I'll be thinking and praying for you as well!
Thanks for the video brotha…its very tough going though this…I have same symptoms currently…flare ups happen then I’d be fine for months at a time, then flare up again and I’d be out for another month…went from 2.5mm 2016, 5.5mm 2019 now 2024 7.5mm I’m ready for the surgery. It’s so traumatic having been so active like you and knowing I can event protect my family when I’m out in the world. Feels so helpless going through this. But im ready for the next phase of my life. Thanks again for this video and taking the time with the Fam and all.
Thank you for your honesty. I’m six weeks post op. It’s been slow progress but after listening to your story, I am more understanding of my progress. I’m 73 years old, and my doctor did say my healing would be slower than if I had been in my thirties. I am pacing myself with my sitting and standing, and I rest when the pain is a bit much. You have a wonderful little girl who will certainly keep you heading in the right direction. 🥰
You just need to take it one day at a time. Healing may be slower but you can do it! The human body is capable of amazing things when it comes to healing. Thank you for the kind words!
I’m right there with you man! Worst pain of my life before surgery. had to get EMS carry me out of my home and take me to the ER bc my pain was so bad. Ended up having a 13Mm disc herniated L5S1 … 1 month post OP.. I walk 10k steps a day. and do my pool walk everyday. It’s helped so much
@@wilsonarmstrong5000 Pool is great bc the buoyancy of your spine in the water takes the pressure of gravity pulling on the disc... I just use my apt complex pool. Spend out 45 min in the pool, walk forward n backward, side to side and stretching, Really focusing on my core when I'm in the pool. If you have a gym membership that has one or know somone who has a pool, I would high recommend it
I admire your strength and willingness to show just how raw and traumatic these things can be. I agree that having a “why” makes all the difference in the world during the healing process. Thank you for sharing your experience 🫶
Many thanks for sharing all you have, and are going through. After months of pain and trying all other options I’m 4 weeks away from L4-5 Microdiscsectomy after being active all my life, 55 now. I’m so concerned that my life as I know it might be over, but you’ve shown me it’s okay to have these feelings and not to bottle them up, and to find something to work towards. Slowly does it, and I wish you all the very best. Thanks again.
Thank you for sharing the emotions and the reality of life after surgery, there thinking about doing that to me, makes me more prepared. Thank you and hugs man
Just watched all your videos which i find very helpful especially the exercises & the equipment (toliet seat)🙃 i am age 51 & never thought i wld be in this position 🫣its certainly an eye opener,micro discectomy for me soon. I whole heartily appreciate your honesty as it makes us realise we shld never take anything for granted,our health is our wealth.. Enjoy your little one 🫠🫠 P.s..ur videos are certainly in my top 5,thanku...
Your are human bro showing your sadness is not a weakness im going threw what you are going threw its hard I've not had my lower back operation yet but I had a operation for the disc in my neck im a long time kick boxer done all sports I trap my spinal cord with an injury in the gym I can walk perfectly as I have drop foot in my right foot im 44 single dad so my level of life has gone down I can even walk a couple of metres I just have to keep going for my kids and you have a new beatiful daughter she needs you more then you would ever know keep strong please reply to me if have time God bless you and your family
Thank you for your strength it's OK, take your time, everything will come back in time, emotions are ok, I needed to see this I need back surgery just been so scared to have it but in horrible pain.
Thanks for sharing. I am over it. I can’t walk, much. Can’t sit long, can’t stand long, lay down, I get very bad groin pain, butt, both thighs dropped gate. Right leg 50 years ago had leminectomy was going into police. Now 72 had fall on Esclators 1 year ago now had 5 falls since. Having L4/5 S1 fusion two weeks I had had it put off three times now by Hospital had stress test don’t drink or smoke. Just over how I am. Don’t worry u have a very beautiful family. I am so very worried very scared 😱 😮about going through it.But I can’t keep going on like I am no life what so ever I have a very good wife.
I am considering the surgery and was terrified of it when my doctor recommended it so i tried to heal on my own and its been about 6 weeks, got alot better and started walking per recommended but after a couple of car rides and walks with my frenchie i started to get the same flare ups again as i had right before the extreme peak of pain. I am really lost but feeling like surgery will help me get my life back but it must be a new lifestyle i guess Thanks for sharing your experience
I have a re-herniation after discectomy last year. No fun at all, but it's fairly common. Back's are unpredictable. It's a painful and emotional journey, but hope is what pulls us through.
Hi…. Thank you for sharing your experience with us. How are you now? Are you exercising again now at the level that you’d like? I am getting emotional here too. I am a 33 years old man, who used to do EVERYTHING you mentioned and I felt like this pain (2 level disc herniation and stenosis) is taking life away from me. I want to propose my girlfriend, marry her, travel around the world, and eventually have kids while still enjoying my mid 30s, but this cloud of constant pain and flare ups makes me second guessing my dream. I might just press the button and do this surgery before this year ends. God Bless you and your family. I hope you recover 110% and come out even stronger
Thank you for the well wishes! I'm exercising and lifting weights again. I have just been very slow about increasing the weight very gradually. I've done a hexbar Deadlift at 205 lbs and back squat for reps at 175 lbs pain free. Overall just listening to my body and keeping the volume low. I believe that you can get back to being active again with the right plan.
Your baby and my daughter share a birthday 🥰 mine just turned 3. I had my microdiscectomy 3 weeks ago today. Due to the lifting restrictions I still can’t lift any of my kids 😭 only got bumped to 15 pounds last week. I’m glad to see if got easier for you! I stopped taking meds alittle over a week ago so gauge what I can and can’t do. Can’t do physical therapy due to having 3 kids at home with me and can’t take them with to appointments. So I’m trying to figure it out myself and start finding exercises I can do 😭
Great video thanks for sharing. Working as an OT and having had this chronic pain and now the surgery 2 days ago it really is humbling and I empathize with patients in pain as I’m sure you do also. One question- how soon did you get into the pool for the leg exercises? Also I hear people say wait to 12 weeks to start formal PT to reduce risk of overdoing it in PT and reherniating. What are your thoughts on that? Thanks and God bless!
It's definitely humbling! I had surgery on May 19 started pool exercises on July 4. I would listen to your surgeon since they know the type of surgery they performed and restrictions you should follow but it's typically no bending, lifting or twisting for a period of time. I was encouraged to do light walking and that I could stand or do activities that didn't involve any bending, lifting or twisting so I did light step downs, walking, heel raises. I do believe that just pure bed rest could inhibit the healing process but you do need to be cautious with activity.
Nice thanks for sharing. I’m learning how to make the changes to keep going with my back surgeries. You mentioned three surgeries what were they all on your back?
Thank you very much for sharing and I glad to hear you are recovering well. I have a surgery at the end of Febuary that I am pretty nervous about and this video really helped put things into perspective The surgery I am having is “right L5-S1 hemilaminectomy, medial facetectomy, microdiscectomy,". Is that similar to the surgery you had? I ask because mine is L5-S1 so I didn't know if that made a significant different or not. As a PT and patient, do you recommend anything (like particular stretches/exercise) while preparing for the surgery?
I just started the process of talking to Dr’s. Met with one on Friday. Was your surgery an open surgery with the 1” incision or was it endoscopic? If neither of those can you tell me how the procedure was done? Thanks! Glad to see you’re doing well.
Just watched your video and glad to hear your doing well. I’m 15 weeks post op from L3 spinal decompression surgery. I was slowly improving and really doing great till week 12. I’ve over done it and really struggling and don’t seem to be improving,3 weeks on with sciatica and can’t do much or feel I’m stood on 1 leg. Due to see the surgeon again next week and like you feel like my disc has herniated further. The worry in my head is unreal at this point.
Thank you for the well wishes! I hope that you get good news from your surgeon and can get back on the road to a full recovery
That was incredible of you to share so honestly. I can sense the pain, and your open-ness gives permission to the rest of us who are struggling with pain and embarrassment and anger.
I've got my endoscopic microdiscectomy in 2 days (after 1.5 years of pain and acute attacks) - will moderate my expectations to stick to a long, slow road towards rebuilding. Thanks again Dr Eric!
I hope you have a successful surgery and appreciate your kind words of encouragement!
It went brilliantly! Years of pain gone in a day. Only wish I'd pushed for it sooner and not had to suffer from the deconditioning from being disabled for month. 3 months out now, and I'm back in a completely normal schedule.
@@RachitDayal I'm glad you're doing so much better! That's amazing!
Thankyou for leaving this unedited and laying it out plain. It helps to know that I am not the only one out there feeling this way. I am 32 years old and right up until my microdiscectomy a week ago the outdoors was my life/passion/purpose/soul. I was signed up to run my first ultramarathon in early 2025, and a hiking and mountaineering trip to NZ shortly after. I feel utterly devastated, like my body has betrayed me far too young, and every day I have to sit by idly as I lose a little bit more of me. And I know that there will be harder days to come, and then a long slow period of building back up, and likely some set backs along the way as well. However this video brings me a measure of solace, and shared hardship and hope that in 8 months time I will be speaking as you do too.
Very humbling to hear your journey. I’m scheduled for surgery in 2 weeks and honestly scared to death but the pain I deal with in the mornings is so bad I am in tears just trying to get to the bathroom. I have to pop Aleve and hobble around for an hr before I can even function. I’ve tried PT, read the Back Mechanic and the only 2 things that don’t make things worse are press ups and walking. Even that is all short lived as I wake up the next morning in the same amount of pain. I hear stories about people getting through these without surgery, but the pain in the mornings for me is so terrible, I don’t know how that’s possible.
i'm 24 years old and had intense leg pain and couldnt really sit for 1 year. And then 3 weeks ago i did endoscopic discectomy for L4/L5 and it was the best decision ever! I can really recomend do the endoscopic and not the micro surgery. i can already go jogging a little bit. and the surgery wasnt painfull at all because they dont open up your back.
i wrote my entire Bachelor Thesis standing cause i couldnt sit without pain
I was in the same boat. Overall, I'm doing much better after surgery now!
Thanks for this vid. Most people don't know how painful a heniated disc/ sciatica can be and tell you that PT is all you need. BS
I decided to do the same operation you did as soon as my ins aproves it.
All your vids have given me hope. 👍👍👍
And what an adorable baby you got there. ❤❤❤
I'm glad my videos have given you hope! PT can help and most herniated discs will heal without surgery 90% of the time. However, in some cases they don't heal and require further medical intervention. It's definitely important to try conservative care first.
@fuelhealthwellness
I'm going into my 8th month with sciatica. Tried PT, chiro, accupucture, tens and epidural.😔
I'm ready for my surgery. 👍
Oops Sorry I wasn't trying to say PT is useless...just in some cases. My bad.
@@Darth-Betta I totally understand and feel your frustration with trying so many methods that didn't work
Hi, I am thinking about having a discectomy on my L5 S1. I have Glute pain whenever I sit.
I heard you say you are starting dead lift again. There is no need to dead lift or squat. Take care of your back maybe hold on to a dumbbell and just do lunges. Or do lunges with just your bodyweight. I would stay away from anything that compresses the spine. Especially if it’s over 40 pounds because I know the barbell alone is 45 for an Olympic weight set. I know you probably have the knowledge of what your body can handle. I know I’ve seen enough videos of people who have re-herniated a disc because they go back to doing what they were doing, which caused the herniation of the disc. I know staying active is important. I hope you continue on your road to recovery.
Hi Steven I appreciate the advice. I do have a doctorate in physical therapy and can understand the concerns with weight lifting. There is a balance where you don't want to do too much but you also need to make sure that you are strengthening your body. Deadlifts and squats are functional lifts that we do every day including when I have to pick my daughter up off the floor, sit to stand while holding her, moving things around the house, etc. So it's important to train those movements but, yes you do need to make sure you have a plan that is appropriate.
This is very inspiring! I am 3 weeks post op from a L5-s1 foraminectomy. It’s definitely a difficult road. You think everything after surgery will be just great but it takes time! My nerves were very inflamed and pinched so still struggling a bit with pain and numbness tingling. My nurse take it week to week not day to day that way you see changes. I’m learning patience… be like a nerve take your time healing! 😊
I hope you're recovering well!
I’m scheduled for a double laminectomy in 3 weeks, and am listening to other folks’ post op experiences. I appreciate your candor. I’m 75 now, and am hoping and praying for success.
I'll pray for a successful surgery for you!
Any follow Up? How are you doing?
I feel your pain man...I'm 2 months post op L4 L5 laminectomy and really struggling. Watching this gives me some hope that it will get better. Thanks man.
That type of pain can be traumatising as much as this all experience. I hope time will help in setting the emotional side of your story.
I didn’t get any surgery yet but I know what you’re talking about, more than I like to admit. 🙏🏻
Overall, I'm much better and very grateful to be active again!
I feel ya bro. This is one of the most emasculating things that can happen to a man. You go from being able to flank down a 300lb calf to having trouble wiping. I'm there. God bless you, sir.
Thank you
I understand your loss
My whole life has been about movement I love to move and dance I love to play tennis and golf and now I'm just a former shred of a self I was I kind of lost my whole identity with. I cry alot.grieving my former self
I believe you can always hope and keep trying. I'm doing much better overall and continue to make progress each day!
Thanks for the video! I just had l5/s1 laminectomy and discectomy. You mentiomed at end pf your video tje nerve was impinged for 12 weeks or so, I think mine was roughly a year..I think i have a long road of recovery ahead of me. Glad you shared this video! The doc said my fluid inside the disk had been outside so long it calcified. Ive had pain shooting down my right leg into my foot since sept 2023. I just had surgery now in the States cause canadian Healthcare sucks to make a long story short, thus the long wait for surgery.
Thanks for sharing man! It's been a week now post op, we (wife and daughter)hope to fly back this coming Saturday (Nov 23).
Btw, im a little ahead of you with the kids situation, wife and I have 3 girls, 6, 5, 2. So irs been a rough year to say the least. Dont worry about crying man!. I've cried twice now in the last week thinking about the fact I've had surgery, more feeling sorry for myself in a way thinking about some of the physical things/projects ive done over the last year, it hurts knowing i used to be super active. Always had a physical job, etc.
Anyhow, thanks again! Good tip on water therapy! I'll keep that in mind!
Glad you had the surgery before kids, thats a huge bonus!
And I'm 34 also (maybe a bit younger than you 😉)
I wish you the best of luck on your recovery! You've got this. It's all about slow, steady progress. I just deadlifted 230 lbs for 4 sets of 8 reps. I'm squatting over my body weight for reps again. It's just been a slow progress. I would recommend doing aquatic therapy if you can get in the pool. Let me know if you have any questions.
@@fuelhealthwellness thank you!
Prayers to everyone for all the best and that there is much happiness that prevails
Thank you so much! Overall I'm doing much better!
You functioned pre-op enough to create life - good for you!
I had surgery a week and a half ago and currently I’m in severe pain. I am a widowed single mother and I am scared I pushed myself more than I should have. I was feeling great enough post surgery I was moving too much… thank you for your testimony-it definitely brings hope
I am wishing you a full recovery!
I'm glad you were able to have the surgery you needed and that you're recovering. Thank you for sharing your experience with us and for allowing yourself to be so vulnerable. Your family is very fortunate to have you in their lives and they need you to be healthy!
@@SarahSodaJ1 thank you!
Wow thanks for the update buddy , so helpful, the symptoms you had before surgery I’ve had and has a spinal block a couple of times , but it still it worsens after time , so I’ve decided to have surgery in Uk Spire Manchester, I’m having L3/4 lumbar decompression for stenosis, if that helps you to know about that procedure,
Ex military 25 yrs in Marines Uk , and currently in UAE working with There Military, it’s tuff buddy watch you get through this video, I feel you man , 💯😉👊💪,
I had my hips replaced both of them and like you fit all my life , running at county level and football, but all taken away from me , and being a high operating level in Marines, I hope your ok and keep battling buddy im with You ,
Thanks so much for the kind words! I do believe that you can continue to heal and improve if you give your body what it needs. I'll be thinking and praying for you as well!
Thanks for the video brotha…its very tough going though this…I have same symptoms currently…flare ups happen then I’d be fine for months at a time, then flare up again and I’d be out for another month…went from 2.5mm 2016, 5.5mm 2019 now 2024 7.5mm
I’m ready for the surgery. It’s so traumatic having been so active like you and knowing I can event protect my family when I’m out in the world. Feels so helpless going through this.
But im ready for the next phase of my life.
Thanks again for this video and taking the time with the Fam and all.
Best of luck with your surgery! You goth this!
Thank you for your honesty. I’m six weeks post op. It’s been slow progress but after listening to your story, I am more understanding of my progress. I’m 73 years old, and my doctor did say my healing would be slower than if I had been in my thirties. I am pacing myself with my sitting and standing, and I rest when the pain is a bit much. You have a wonderful little girl who will certainly keep you heading in the right direction. 🥰
You just need to take it one day at a time. Healing may be slower but you can do it! The human body is capable of amazing things when it comes to healing. Thank you for the kind words!
I’m right there with you man! Worst pain of my life before surgery. had to get EMS carry me out of my home and take me to the ER bc my pain was so bad. Ended up having a 13Mm disc herniated L5S1 … 1 month post OP.. I walk 10k steps a day. and do my pool walk everyday. It’s helped so much
Why the pool walk? And how can you afford a pool? lol I'm 24 and als had L4/L5 surgery 3 weeks ago.
@@wilsonarmstrong5000 Pool is great bc the buoyancy of your spine in the water takes the pressure of gravity pulling on the disc... I just use my apt complex pool. Spend out 45 min in the pool, walk forward n backward, side to side and stretching, Really focusing on my core when I'm in the pool. If you have a gym membership that has one or know somone who has a pool, I would high recommend it
I admire your strength and willingness to show just how raw and traumatic these things can be. I agree that having a “why” makes all the difference in the world during the healing process. Thank you for sharing your experience 🫶
It definitely takes time! It's all about being consistent and patient which is difficult but focus on getting 1% better each day
Many thanks for sharing all you have, and are going through. After months of pain and trying all other options I’m 4 weeks away from L4-5 Microdiscsectomy after being active all my life, 55 now. I’m so concerned that my life as I know it might be over, but you’ve shown me it’s okay to have these feelings and not to bottle them up, and to find something to work towards. Slowly does it, and I wish you all the very best. Thanks again.
Best of luck on your surgery! I'm confident that with the right plan you can fully recover!
Positive + Positive !! 10 weeks post L5 fusion my self , I'm in your team !
Thanks! I hope you are recovering well!
stay strong! we're all with you
Thanks for the support!
Thank you for sharing the emotions and the reality of life after surgery, there thinking about doing that to me, makes me more prepared. Thank you and hugs man
Thank you! I appreciate the kind words!
Just watched all your videos which i find very helpful especially the exercises & the equipment (toliet seat)🙃 i am age 51 & never thought i wld be in this position 🫣its certainly an eye opener,micro discectomy for me soon.
I whole heartily appreciate your honesty as it makes us realise we shld never take anything for granted,our health is our wealth..
Enjoy your little one 🫠🫠
P.s..ur videos are certainly in my top 5,thanku...
Thank you so much for the kind words! I hope you have a successful surgery!!
Your are human bro showing your sadness is not a weakness im going threw what you are going threw its hard I've not had my lower back operation yet but I had a operation for the disc in my neck im a long time kick boxer done all sports I trap my spinal cord with an injury in the gym I can walk perfectly as I have drop foot in my right foot im 44 single dad so my level of life has gone down I can even walk a couple of metres I just have to keep going for my kids and you have a new beatiful daughter she needs you more then you would ever know keep strong please reply to me if have time God bless you and your family
I can't walk properly i was ment to say
Thank you for your strength it's OK, take your time, everything will come back in time, emotions are ok, I needed to see this I need back surgery just been so scared to have it but in horrible pain.
I'll be thinking and praying for a successful outcome for you!
Damn man I feel those tears. Totally valid ❤
Thank you.
Thanks for sharing. I am over it. I can’t walk, much. Can’t sit long, can’t stand long, lay down, I get very bad groin pain, butt, both thighs dropped gate. Right leg 50 years ago had leminectomy was going into police. Now 72 had fall on Esclators 1 year ago now had 5 falls since. Having L4/5 S1 fusion two weeks I had had it put off three times now by Hospital had stress test don’t drink or smoke. Just over how I am. Don’t worry u have a very beautiful family. I am so very worried very scared 😱 😮about going through it.But I can’t keep going on like I am no life what so ever I have a very good wife.
I'll be thinking and praying that you have a successful outcome! I'm sorry for your struggles
Appreciate your honesty. Hope you're gradually improving!
I am considering the surgery and was terrified of it when my doctor recommended it so i tried to heal on my own and its been about 6 weeks, got alot better and started walking per recommended but after a couple of car rides and walks with my frenchie i started to get the same flare ups again as i had right before the extreme peak of pain. I am really lost but feeling like surgery will help me get my life back but it must be a new lifestyle i guess
Thanks for sharing your experience
I have a re-herniation after discectomy last year. No fun at all, but it's fairly common. Back's are unpredictable. It's a painful and emotional journey, but hope is what pulls us through.
Hi…. Thank you for sharing your experience with us. How are you now? Are you exercising again now at the level that you’d like?
I am getting emotional here too. I am a 33 years old man, who used to do EVERYTHING you mentioned and I felt like this pain (2 level disc herniation and stenosis) is taking life away from me.
I want to propose my girlfriend, marry her, travel around the world, and eventually have kids while still enjoying my mid 30s, but this cloud of constant pain and flare ups makes me second guessing my dream. I might just press the button and do this surgery before this year ends.
God Bless you and your family. I hope you recover 110% and come out even stronger
Thank you for the well wishes! I'm exercising and lifting weights again. I have just been very slow about increasing the weight very gradually. I've done a hexbar Deadlift at 205 lbs and back squat for reps at 175 lbs pain free. Overall just listening to my body and keeping the volume low. I believe that you can get back to being active again with the right plan.
Your baby and my daughter share a birthday 🥰 mine just turned 3. I had my microdiscectomy 3 weeks ago today. Due to the lifting restrictions I still can’t lift any of my kids 😭 only got bumped to 15 pounds last week. I’m glad to see if got easier for you!
I stopped taking meds alittle over a week ago so gauge what I can and can’t do. Can’t do physical therapy due to having 3 kids at home with me and can’t take them with to appointments. So I’m trying to figure it out myself and start finding exercises I can do 😭
Great video thanks for sharing. Working as an OT and having had this chronic pain and now the surgery 2 days ago it really is humbling and I empathize with patients in pain as I’m sure you do also. One question- how soon did you get into the pool for the leg exercises? Also I hear people say wait to 12 weeks to start formal PT to reduce risk of overdoing it in PT and reherniating. What are your thoughts on that? Thanks and God bless!
It's definitely humbling! I had surgery on May 19 started pool exercises on July 4. I would listen to your surgeon since they know the type of surgery they performed and restrictions you should follow but it's typically no bending, lifting or twisting for a period of time. I was encouraged to do light walking and that I could stand or do activities that didn't involve any bending, lifting or twisting so I did light step downs, walking, heel raises. I do believe that just pure bed rest could inhibit the healing process but you do need to be cautious with activity.
Nice thanks for sharing.
I’m learning how to make the changes to keep going with my back surgeries.
You mentioned three surgeries what were they all on your back?
If you were only allowed to sit and stand for brief periods did you have to lay down for the remainder of the time?
I was allowed to stand and lay down as much as I want. Sitting was limited to 30 minutes, 3x per day
I had my surgery two days ago. I'm in so much pain. I can't get out of bed my back is so stiff
Thank you very much for sharing and I glad to hear you are recovering well. I have a surgery at the end of Febuary that I am pretty nervous about and this video really helped put things into perspective The surgery I am having is “right L5-S1 hemilaminectomy, medial facetectomy, microdiscectomy,". Is that similar to the surgery you had? I ask because mine is L5-S1 so I didn't know if that made a significant different or not. As a PT and patient, do you recommend anything (like particular stretches/exercise) while preparing for the surgery?
I just started the process of talking to Dr’s. Met with one on Friday. Was your surgery an open surgery with the 1” incision or was it endoscopic? If neither of those can you tell me how the procedure was done? Thanks!
Glad to see you’re doing well.