I just had L4-S1 spinal fusion with 4 titanium pins put in as well on January 6th. The first week is not easy at all and even after a month I have alot of back spasms as I have alot of muscle in my back. I wrestled for 12 years and apparently fractured my vertebrate and never knew it. I am a very active person and have always been happy and upbeat. However, about a year ago I started having minor back pain and a loss of energy. It got worse and worse to the point of losing my girlfriend because I wasn't happy and couldn't make her happy.

I started getting shin splints and the final straw was going to Voodoofest in New Orleans and I was in so much pain by the second day I could not stand in the crowd. I got an MRI and Xrays and all the doctors agreed it was the worst lower spinal injury they had seen in someone my age. I got multiple opinions and searched for the best neurosurgeon. They all told me that surgery was my only option. After a month the leg pain is gone I still have muscle spasms and pain but that is to be expected still.

I start rehab soon and hopefully in a year I will be able to play basball and softball and be my happy self again. My dr. is great and I would recommend him and his staff to anyone. This has been hell to go thru but the biggest lesson I learned is that you have to take care of your health if you don't you can literally hit rock bottom. I was very depressed for awhile but friends and family help a great deal and listen to your doctors. The surgery is worth it if you find the right doctor.

C