October 5, 2009 - 11:42am
Is this the new normal
I just had my accident a week ago. My spine isn't nearly as injured as many here (fractures of L2-L5, spondo) and I just have to wear a brace and go to PT. I just suddenly feel so down about it though. I want to go out and be active. I hate having this brace and I hate that my back hurts. I KNOW I am fortunate I wasn't injured more than I am but this sucks. Is it going to always be this way? I already take Zoloft for depression.
Thanks and sorry to whine.
I hope you posted expecting a little pep talk in return. Whether you have had surgery or an injury, such as you have had, recovery is a LONG, SLOW process...much longer than any of us going through it think it should take. If you can adjust your thinking to your body's schedule, you will be better off in the long run.
Think of the healing period as running a marathon, not a sprint. You may not see any progress for a while, but if you look for changes in terms of weeks rather than days, you will feel better about what is going on.
I won't give you the pep talk about being grateful that your injury is "fixable" and could have been much worse. It is normal to feel depressed after a major trauma to the body, and it will probably take some time to start to feel more optimistic. If you can focus on what you can do, and what you can do to follow your doctor's instructions to give yourself the very best chance for a full recovery, it may help with the feeling of loss. Also, in your case, your situation is temporary. This time next year you will be back to doing all the things that seem impossible at the moment.
Do what you can to maintain a positive attitude. Work hard with your physical therapist. Follow your doctor's instructions. Drink lots of water and walk as you're able. Perhaps you will be one of the lucky ones who heals quickly. And, of course, post whenever you have questions or need to vent! That is helpful, too.
Wishing you a speedy recovery --
Gwennie
I have no medical training. Comments are based on personal experience and lots of research and reading.
PLIF @ L4-5 with Peek cage, rods and screws Jan 2008
Lami-foraminotomy L5-S1 Jan 2009
Fusion L3-S1 coming up -- 1 June
its called all kinds of names including venting so vent away! we all need to do it sometimes. it helps release the inner psyche.goodness, please know you are among friends and if you ever feel the need to vent or chat or laugh there is always a spiney close by to join in with you..
stay close to the forum and you will be well before you know it!! all the best! Jenny 
be impeccable with your word..