[Guest]

I am a 42 year old man who is 5'11" tall and carry about 185 pounds. I had a two level (L4/L5 and L5/S1) in November 2001. Since then I have not enjoyed any pain free days as I had hoped. I originally had back pain with numbness down the right leg to the foot. Now almost six months post op, I am experiencing more severe back pain with occasional burning in my right thigh. I still experience pain in the leg and numbness in my foot. I have been doing physical therapy to increase my mobility and flexability. I take vioxx once a day and pain meds constantly. We all knew before this last surgery that I had 3 bad disks. The 2 removed and the L3/L4. This was confirmed with a discogram. My orthopedic surgeon said it was better to limit fusions to two levels at a time. Save the third for last.... Better chance of success.
Now I just want to know if I need another surgery to stop the cycle of pain. I am so tired of this. My life is going down the tubes.
Right now I go to work, do what I can, then come home to recoup. That means not much interest in kids activities or my duties to my marriage.
Can you help me find a path to less pain and more enjoyment?
Please.

Robbie

[Guest]

Chronic back pain can really be difficult to deal with. You may want to try alternate means of therapy, oincluding neuromuscular massage and pool/aqua therapy for your pain. TENS unit can sometimes be helpful.. Medications such as Elavil, Neurontin, Ultram, Zanaflex or others may also provide relief. Your surgeon would have to determine what the next course of action is. You might also consider seeing a pain management specialist. Good luck.
[quote] I am a 42 year old man who is 5'11" tall and carry about 185 pounds. I had a two level (L4/L5 and L5/S1) in November 2001... [/quote]