2 back ops in 2 months — what I’ve learned.
The last few months have been a tad rough. The leg pain started as far back as June. For the first 3 weeks, I ignored it. Not being able to tie my shoe laces moved me to action. 6 physio sessions later, I was no longer standing completely skew, but the pain levels continued to tick up, and along with it the strength in meds I had to take in order to keep functional.
The next step was an x-ray. All clear. Next a MRI scan, via a Prof. on orthopedics. Bam. Severe slipped disc, causing a pinched nerve and the referred pain in my right leg. Solution: back operation (laminectomy) to remove the protruding disk.
I pulled the trigger to have an op within seconds after chatting to the neurosurgeon.
4 weeks into the 6-week recovery period, I started rehabilitation excercises. I can’t say exactly what the cause was, but 2 days later THAT pain was back. It didn’t go away.
Back to the neurosurgeon. Another MRI scan and confirmation that I was evidence of the 5–10% failure rate rate of the procedure. Result: have the same operation, again. Same recovery regime, same risks.
Not fun. One makes plans, and then life happens, and all that.
1. Sitting at your desk is the new smoking
Sitting at one’s desk for extended periods equals risky behavior. According to the experts I’ve spoken to along the way, there is a definite increase in the frequency of back and neck issues due to people sitting in front of their computers all day. Look into your desk setup. An expensive, ergonomic chair is not necessary, but frequent breaks are essential. Go for a walk. Get a cheap standing desk. Do excercise which strengthens your core muscles, as this can prevent back issues.
2. Get health insurance
I’m skeptical about insurance in general. (Why not put money into buying an asset?). Having health insurance has, however, been a major plus. I am indifferent to Discovery Health Insurance, but they have sown up a lot of relationships with health care providers which has saved time.
3. Identity issues
I have workaholic tendencies. Being out of work has been a major stressor for me. Enter feelings of guilt, anger and frustration. My work outcomes are linked fundamentally to my mood. It’s a problem. Need to work — like I said — on that.
4. Patience is a virtue
If I ever to do a job interview, ‘patience’ won’t be going into the ‘my strengths’ column. Sitting for a total of 30min per day (3 x 10min) for the first 3 weeks post op is a major limitation. Getting to the place where you can be patient with the process is no joke. Patience as a virtue has gone up in my rankings.
5. Turning into a child and the value of loved ones
The simplest things of getting around the house become a challenge. Getting showered, getting dressed, getting breakfast is hard. My partner said she feels like she is looking after a small child! Don’t even mention driving anywhere — that’s off the table completely. Not going nuts has been a function of the support of my better half, family and friends. Be nice. Having support when you need it is vital.
Health is everything. Good luck.
P.S. you might want to read the next installment in this hospital diaries saga:
