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February 7, 2012 - 10:39pm
Will it be hard after
Hey. I was wondering when I have my surgery and recover. I know I will need to stay in shape. I'm having L2-S1 spinal fusion.
What's the weight should I stay in and will it be harder after surgery. I used to be bigger and I'm healthy and in shape. I am scared that I will gain it all back after surgery.... If you have any tips for me that will be great.
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Have you discussed it with your Dr? They should set you up with some sort of physical therapy (PT) and, if they're good, weight control should be part of it.
If you maintain the same caloric intake you have now, combined with the drop in activity you'll have after surgery, yes. You will gain. It's simple math really. You'll need to have a plan, and stick to it. Lower your intake to match your lower activity level.
Personally, I find it hard to motivate myself to do any sort of activity when I hurt. I just don't want to move. I haven't had surgery, but my X did (fusion also). I know hard it was for her. She didn't stick to a diet, and she didn't follow PT like she was supposed to. It took her a much longer time to recover than it should have, and she gained some weight. Even if you have a supportive spouse/partner/friends, you still have to take the initiative. You can do it though, right?
Good luck!
MRI reports:
Bilateral facet hypertrophy from L3 to S1. Broad-based left foraminal/posterolateral disc herniation L4-L5, with underlying focal annular tear abutting the existing left L4 nerve root. Bilateral facet hypertrophy, with resultant mild to moderate left neural foraminal narrowing (L4-L5). Small posterior central disc herniation at L5-S1. Small right paracentral disc herniation at T7-8, indenting the right anterior thecal sac. 1.5cm rounded T2 hyperintense lesion in the T12 vertebral body.
Veteran of many RFAs (ask me anything about them). 50% disabled Army Veteran. Proud CPAP wearer (ask for advice).
Our you having MIS or open surgery? I had MIS TLIF on only L5-S1 approx 2 yrs ago. I dont think you will gain weight. I actually lost some weight in the first couple of weeks. You will sleep alot most likely and be on pain meds. then as you are increasing walking you will be focused on your recovery and body and want to nourish it well. I think you will be fine.
Please let us know when you are having the surgery.
Hi Timae,
I definitely gained weight after surgery. I am typically active and used to go to spinning once a week and walk twice a week, and I did PT or weights 2-3 times a week. All I've done since surgery is take small walks. I'm hoping to start PT next week. I haven't gained a *ton* of weight, but I can see and feel that I've gained a bit.
I'm not sure how to avoid weight gain after surgery since in the first few weeks or months we don't have a lot of stamina or strength to do much. I was thinking of cutting calories a little bit since I'm not exercising as much, but I also know my body needs nutrients to heal properly and I don't want to cut out too much.
I'm guessing that as I become more active I'll lose the weight. For me it seems a little inevitable that I gained; I really don't know how I could have avoided it. I'm definitely looking forward to getting stronger and being able to do more!
Shane
Microdiscectomy at L4L5 on 1/27/12.