Hello to all!

Just wanted to update all the nice folks who have taken time to write about experiences with back pain.  I've really appreciated hearing the many stories.  Makes me realize how fortunate I've been in my life with fairly good physical health.  I went through the series of shots but unfortunely the effects only lasted a couple weeks.  I tried riding a month after the third injection but it was still painful, even at a walk.  I stopped trying, and sadly cleaned up all the tack in anticipation of a year long furlough for the horses.  Two weeks later the pain started to return.  I have scheduled the disc fusion surgery for August 11th.  I know some of you will be appalled, and some will applude, but I hope you will say a little prayer for me.  Thank you all again and I will post my recovery.  Sincerely,  jobug

Dear Jobug,

So sorry that other alternatives didn't work out for you.  Best of luck with your surgery.  It has taken awhile but I have had great success following my fusion.  Granted, I had an acute injury and didn't have chronic pain as you have but I have heard from many people with chronic back pain that the surgery brings almost instant pain relief.  I sincerely hope this will be true for you as well.

Barb

Sorry that you have to go through surgery, but a positive attitude is the best medicine for recovery!  Will definitely keep you in my prayers for a speedy recovery.  Even though you can't ride, keep petting and brushing those horses, it's good for all of you! :)

Jobug,

I hope this message isn't too late. I had L5-S1 fusion on 4/13/09.  My surgeon performed a relatively new procedure called "AxiaLif." It's the same concept as the traditional surgerys but it's incredibly minimally invasive.  I have two one inch incisions.  I was in the hospital for 3 days, should have just been an overnighter but my blood pressure didn't want to cooperate.  I cooked dinner every night as I just kept everything up on the counter where I didn't have to bend.  I returned to work after 8 weeks out on recovery.  I'm practically pain free. The only aches I have are from my core muscles weakening while I wore the backbrace. That's getting better as I increase my activity level.  I go for my 6 month check-up in October and should be cleared to ride again.  If you haven't already had your procedure, please look into the AxiaLif method.  It has been wonderful to me.  If you've already had your surgery, I hope all is going well for you.

Jessica

 I've been thinking about you and hoping things are still going well. Please let us know how your October appointment goes.

Hi Dancing,

   Thank you for your kind thoughts and reminder to update my postings. I had surgery about 5 weeks ago and am doing well now after having had some minor complications.  I'm already out setting gopher traps in the pasture, and brushing my horses.  Obviously I can't lead my horses anywhere yet, nor am I doing most of the normal chores.  The doctor has told me to let pain be my guide as to what I otherwise do.  I started back to work (I have my own private therapy practice) this week on a limited basis.  I'm walking to strengthen my back.  It will most likely be a years recovery before I can ride again but at least I feel like I'm now on the uphill side.  Thanks again for thinking of me.   I'll report periodically on my progress.  Jo

Hello reinchick53,

   Thank you so much for your encouragment, and words of wisdom.  It is so encouraging to hear from others who have faced these challenges and overcome them.  I am planning to work with a Pilates instructor to help with my core strength (when my doctor allows).  Thanks for the advice on the gel seat. I had not thought of it but it makes sense!  I hope it is only 6 months before I can ride again.  It will depend on how solid the bone developement looks on the xrays.   Thanks again and best wishes for your recovery.  Please let us all know how it goes for you.  Jo

 It sounds as  if you're off to a good start, Jo. I used Pilates to get myself back after my back surgery, too. I am hooked, even now these many years later!  I think I'm going to look into a gel seat... had never thought of it.