One year later/L3/4/5 fusion

[dridobits]

I do have some issues with range of motion but it it isn't major and I still feel the fusion was the right choice. I was in bed for most of ten years so the only direction I had to go was up. The things I have most trouble with are backing up when driving and sweeping, washing floors. There are some absolutely crazy driveways here which I will not attempt.

Living in the bay area is a challenge. I have many steps to where I live and my bedroom is on the second floor. I don't have problems climbing stairs in fact my neighbors have over 60 steps to their house. I try not to lift too much as I'm afraid of putting stress on the other discs. I feel like the steps help as it gives me more exercise. There are lots of things I won't do for fear I will mess things up.

[Maria]

Must be fun for you re carrying bags up the stairs or carrying luggage up and down! I live on the 2nd floor and get good exercise carrying bags up stairs, pet supplies tho luggage is always a challenge when I go somewhere. I use the smaller suitcases w/wheels but it makes so much noise and is cumbersome if I have several things to bring.

I only recently gave thought to adjacent disc levels re some of what I do when I had to clear out, pack up and take care of my father's estate alone. That had to be the most phyical work I've done in years!

My cervical spine is sometime compromised and I find I have trouble turning my head to check things out when backing up, driving and such so usually turn my full torso. Twisting motion. Not right I know even w/ a non fused spine (or one with remaining probs/bulges).

I was down a long time too and that's why I'm pleased w/how much up time I have w/just being on some pain med. If and when that all changes and if more surgery is still an option I'd do what I had to do which is what you did it sounds like and seem to have had good results, actually pretty great results it sounds like re that 9 hour car drive and working still! take care!

[dridobits]

Safeway delivers in this neighborhood for all the heavy things. I don't know what I would do without them. It's good to find out about places who may deliver in your area. It isn't worth re-injuring myself for a bag of cat litter.

[dshobbies]

Great idea - I've never thought about it for heavy items. I wait for my husband but perhaps this is something I should look into and leave him alone for more important things, like changing toilet paper rolls!

I do love him so much. He's a very good man and I consider myself very lucky. Just having a little fun at his expense

All kidding aside, it is a good idea.