Hi there!

I had an XLIF for T12 to L2 due to a burst fracture of L1 in August of 2011. I've healed extremely well and I don't have pain or anything at this point.

However, I'm only 22 and I've heard that a fusion can have degenerative effects on the discs/vertebrae surrounding the fusion. I'd like to maintain good back health in the future (I never had any back problems before the accident).

Does anyone have any experience with the long-term effects of a fusion like mine (specifically, in the low thoracic and lumbar region)? What can I do to make sure my spine remains healthy despite the fusion? Am I guaranteed to have further spine issues because of this?