Diane's surgery blog

[Poncho]

Diane,

Wow! Another Prodisc Poster Girl!!! It is so good to see you posting on the "other side". I know Mark has kept us well informed of your progress - but it is always a good sign to see the recovering spiney posting.

It seems like yesturday being over there getting this procedure done. It is an experience that you will never forget.

My impression of your recovery is that you are doing really well. Regardless of the activity level at this point. There may be some bumps in the road ahead, but I think you are in the best of hands to travel this journey of recovery.

I hope that your GI stuff is controlled well enough soon to sample the local beer (I'm not sure about brats/sausage) before returning home.

Welcome to the other side fellow "Prodisc Sis"
Poncho (I mean "Ponchita)

[dshobbies]

Diane,

It's good to 'hear' your voice. You have such a positive attitude and have every hope for an uncomplicated recovery. Getting meds right can take a little time but all in all, each day only gets better.

I'm glad you posted about the discography/discogram. I know I've posted this before but it warrants repeating. I too shared your apprehension while waiting for the test. In fact, I would catagorize my feelings as outright petrofying fear. It overshadowed my decision making processes. I agree that I barely felt the needles until my discs were pressurized. And then by the time you feel that jolt of pain, it's already over. The pain lasts for less than a second. My fears were based on posts from others and were a waste of my time and energies. For others about to undergo this test, or needing one in the future, fear not. The pains we get from slamming our limbs into things or stubbing toes or cutting fingers are livable (and no one fears opening envelopes) and so is this test. If it's needed, go for it.

Diane, my best to you and Mark, Dale

[Maria]

I've been thinking I will settle my case eventually and get this taken care of with Dr.B. vs. here in US.

I have my reasons but mostly it's because I just don't think I would get everything done here that I need to have done.

Vertebroplasty given I have lumbar osteopenia
My concerns re L3 annular tear
Just feel that if the best is abroad, then it's the best I want as I've settled before and live with results.

Anyway, since I've had 3 discograms I have been fearful of how I've heard they are done abroad.

Your explanation just allowed me a big sigh of relief~ thanks Diane.

Glad to hear you're doing as well as you are and best wishes for continued mimimally painfree recovery!

[chasswen]

Diane
just wanting to a big warm welcome to the other side.
my positive thoughts and prayers are heading your way for a speedy recover. and soon you will be able to play with your grand daughter again soon.
your adr buddy
chuck

[sahuaro]

Diane:
It is SO wonderful to hear from you directly!
Don't have to give you any advice about taking things slowly since you have Mark to guide you; on the other hand, if he hovers too much, just let us know--we'll handle it!

Barbara

[Diane]

My day started early with a spectacular sunrise. I wasn't really ready to wake up, but when I opened my eyes and saw the the sky, I had to get out of bed and take a closer look.


I guess I didn't overdo yesterday because I'm still moving pretty well. At breakfast I was amazed by how much more comfortable I was than yesterday. I didn't need to rest after breakfast, so we went out and walked the entire stadtplatz. I napped most of the afternoon, not because I was uncomfortable, but I just feel the need for more sleep since the surgery. It was warm and sunny today and it felt so good with the windows open and a cool breeze blowing through the room. In the late afternoon, we went out again and walked about twice the length of the stadtplatz and wound up having to walk up a hill.

My incision has been hurting a bit more today. I guess it's partly because of the brace, partly because of my increased activity and also because I'm wearing regular clothes again. I think I'll go back to warm-up pants! I don't know how everyone is wearing jeans after their lumbar surgeries.

I made it out to Zum Geiss for another Zander special. Mark went down and ordered so I wouldn't have to sit for so long. Meals out here can take all night and half the next day! By the end of the meal, I was starting to get some minor low back pain; nothing bad. After the busiest day we've had so far, I'm pleased that I've stayed within my limits and am making such good progress every day.

Time for another nap!

Diane

[ellecincos1]

Diane its nice to hear from you it must feel kind of a relief to be on the other side Now its time to heal I'm glad you mentiond the discogram I've read how so many people have a big fear about having it done.

To all of you out there discograms only hurt for a few seconds just imagine being very uncomfortable for a little while before and afterwards and thats it.... its over!!! Don't let other people scare you

Take care,
Myriam

[mwmc76]

Mark and Diane, you sound a little "cautiously optimistic" like things are almost going toooo well ! Your description of how well Diane is doing is an exact duplicate of my experience. I actually can't remember any pain and they only gave me something like tramadol after I came off the pump. I had gone over mentally prepared for a few days of recovery pain, but it never came. I contribute that to Dr. B and the great care given there in Bogen hospital.
I only share this so you can rest in the fact that someone else has been there too. So relax and enjoy the recovery walks around Straubing. Thanks for keeping us updated.
Mark (Tennessee)

[Todd W]

Hi Diane and Mark as well as the rest of the iSpine community.

Diane, I'm very happy your surgery went well and I'm wishing you all the best to a speedy recovery. Don't let your coach experiment with you. Mark's been hinting about bungee jumping as a work-up for the two of you to be the first tandem ADR husband/wife parachute team. As for the Brat and Kraut, you know the dangers of going there.

Get well soon and keep us informed when the opportunity is available.