Hello all,
It has been 4 1/2 weeks since I had back surgery. I had L4and L5 fused, disk was suck out replaced with a artificial disk and a bracket or what they called a cage with 4 screws holding it all together. I went in on a Tuesday and was out of the hospital the next day. The first few days was rough but by the time the weekend came I was feeling a whole lot better. I am now will along to healing with little or no pain. This week I am according to instruction weaning myself off the back brace.
I have learned why opiates are very dangerous. Even though I had a 10 day supply of them taking them every 4 hours I only did that for 2 1/2 days. But it took me 3 days of withdraw to get over the effects of them. Lot's of anxiety and hot and cold sweats. Regular pain pills did just fine and I have not needed one for over 2 weeks. These things are dangerous. I had no idea.
I was told it may be until May next year before I can go back to work. It all depends on me to follow the doctor's instruction. I must say at this point I am glad I did this. Which leads me to my next point.
I have a lot of time to read which I am doing and a lot of time to reflect on my life. I feel like I am more centered more clam with myself and at peace. I sometimes feel like I have conquered my ADD. I am able to think clearly and read will into the evening. Something I was never able to do. But I do realize there is more to it but who knows?
I am able to walk several blocks everyday. I do this twice a day. I am getting stronger as time goes on. The doctor says I am doing great and I feel very good. Reading this site everyday has help me to better understand how we all feel and how hard it is for all of us to regain our individuality. Our pain we all have is what brings us together no matter what our thinking is on politics. I really respect that.
My wife has been great. She is such a great care giver. She is a rock and has been very supportive. I am a very lucky man. If there is a draw back to all of this is I am not allowed to drive, lift, bend, push or pull anything. Foremost do not bend my back. My wife has keep me me from doing this. I liken her to a pit bull when it comes to this. All this and home cook meals.
That's about it for now and I can't wait until next spring so I can start gardening again. You all take care. Still Totally ADD