Meds after spinal fusion

[Jeaniem130]

My fusion was 11 weeks ago and I still need an occasional dose of my prescription medication. I have heard that otc meds such as aleve and ibuprofen can interfere with bone grafting, so I have been avoiding them. Surgeon said the otc's were okay to take at this point but I would rather wait until I see how things look at my 3 month xray. Anyone else still needed pain meds almost 3 months out?

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Consider taking OTC pain medications to work in conjunction with what you take as suggested with by your Specialist, Gental exersise of the back may helpYou need to discuss pain medications bt your Doctor or specialists as there are different groups of pain medication will work in conjunction together

Have they discussed the use of a TENS MACHINE or PEN. ask your Specialist or Doctor if He will advise.

Warm compresses may also help as does a warm bath or shower.

BOB

[Amkoffee]

I don't agree with borderriever advice. You should be using cold compresses to help with swelling. You might also try Bayer Back and Body. It has aspirin and caffeine which helps with the inflammation and is not either of the 2 OTC your trying to stay away from. Also you should not be doing any exercises other then what a PT or the surgeon told you to do. I would also hesitate about using a TENS unit on your back if you have scar tissue there. That tissue is very sensitive and an adhesive patch might damage the skin.

[clare86]

I had spinal fusion a few years ago. You areStill in very early days recovery, it’s a major operation. You will require pain relief still, but avoid the anti inflammatory meds for a little longer. Warm baths and gentle mobilisation, hydrotherapy if you can. It can take a good 12-18 months to recover properly.

[Iona467]

HiI had rods inserted into my back from neck to bottom in January plus my lower back opened where it was compressing my spinal cord, due to severe spinal stenosis.

I am still taking. 500mg or 1000mg of painkillers plus 5g of morphine three times a day, due to the pain.

[Jeaniem130 in reply to Iona467]

Oh my. You are going through a lot and can't imagine you would not need pain meds! I hope you do well.