Hello! Can anyone who has had surgery share what it was like? How long the hospital stay typically is. What is recovery time is like? What restrictions if any are given? How it has improved their life? I am curious and haven't found anything online that really lets you know what to expect. Thanks!
Everyone seems to have a different experience. I was in the hospital one day. My incision site was a bit painful and my neck was quite sore and stiff. I was restricted from driving, bending over, and lifting more than 5 lbs. for 6 weeks after surgery. Pain levels seem to depend on the individual's tolerance. I did ok with the pain. I was just tired and needed to nap a lot. I was able to return to work at 8 weeks post-op. I was still a bit tired but otherwise in good shape.
I have seen a big reduction in headaches, tingling and numbness, and lightheaded and dizzy feelings. I also seem less fatigued and am able to exercise for the first time in years! I'm one year post-op and so far no regrets! :)
Depending on the surgeon, hospital stay is different. I was in ICU for 2 days, then stayed an addition 3 days in hospital. And I needed that time. I slept for about 95% of the time in the hospital. I didn’t get out of my bed till day 4. This was normal according to my doc. At home, no cleaning or events for about 3 months. It was very easy for me to over do it and pay later. You will need to lay around and rest. I went back to work at 2.5 months, but that was too soon looking back. I’m 8 mos post op now and still get tired but feel I’m at about 85%. It’s a long process, but for me it was worth it! I have EDS so need a another surgery to fix my unstable neck. I guess I’m about half way there! I wish nothing but success for you!
Jenn
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I am 2-1/2 weeks post-op. Was in the hospital 2 nights. No lifting over 7-8 lbs. for a month. I have been told I can drive now because my range of motion is good and I am not taking meds. Today I drove to Starbucks which is 3-4 min. away and that was about as far as I felt safe to go.
It is a painful surgery, not going to lie. I couldn't take pain meds because they make me so sick. Basically took tylenol and a low dose of a muscle relaxer and lots of ice. You will get 2-3 hours of sleep at a time, at least that is how I was. I had my sutures removed today and the pain is definitely better.
Not sure what my results will be. The "chiari" headache is better, but I still have dizziness, vertigo, brain fog, etc. They are telling me to give it a full year until I decide how much relief I will have gotten from the surgery.
I lived on popsicles, ginger ale, tea and soup for about a week after getting home. I am eating better now. Also be sure to have plenty of stool softeners. You are not allowed to bear down at all. They told me that could "blow the patch" right off.
Good luck,
Debbie :)