Background

My problems first started in the mid 1980’s when I was around 30 years old. My back had gone into spasm (lower back) whilst doing something as simple carrying a vacuum cleaner downstairs. The pain lasted for a couple of weeks after which time I was symptom free for a couple of years.

As time went on the spasms would occur more frequently and with more intensity. It’s also worth noting that I was never really sure what had triggered it. Things started to get really bad around 2000 when as well as having frequent spasms I had a consistent niggling pain and seemed to be taking pain killers permanently. It was around this time I had a major wake up call.

My back went into spasm whilst walking downstairs; fortunately I was at the bottom and only had a couple of steps to come down. I spent the next hour on my hands and knees at the bottom of the stairs hoping that the pain would wear off enough for me to move.

Quality of life around this time was to say the least a bit bleak. I think because in my case things got progressively worse over a number of years you learned to deal with it, not really being aware of the effect on your home life and those around you. Basically you are not a nice person when in pain.

Surgery

The first day after surgery (Lumbar fusion of 3 vertebrae) was uncomfortable to say the least, not a pleasant experience. Having said that, on day two I felt well enough and confident enough to go home. In the early days of recovery I had a couple of set backs mainly due to some nerve damage as a result of the operation.

Progress was slow to start with but quickly picked up pace. Don’t expect too much too soon. I would estimate that it took a good 12 to 18 months to feel the full benefit. Although after 3 or 4 months I think I was better off than I was before the operation.

During the recovery period you have a lot of control – I firmly believe having a positive attitude helped my progress.

Dealing with anxiety

Your nearest and dearest are at a disadvantage. They don’t really know what you are going through and because of this they just tend to worry with you. By far the best alternative is to talk to people who have been in the same position.

Personally I got in touch with every contact number I was given and found this a major source of encouragement and support. I also attended a support group pre and post Op and again found this to be invaluable.

The other thing to remember is that the Consultant doesn’t know what you don’t know – ask questions, even if they seem trivial.

The story today

I had my surgery about 2.5 years ago, since which time I’ve had no problems at all. My expectations have been exceeded and now wish I’d had it done a lot earlier. My quality of life is much improved, you don’t actually know how much of a drain it is until you have no pain.