Broke Lumbar Fusion L5-S1

[Will1975]

I had a lumbar fusion done at L5-S1 8 years ago.Yesterday I lifted something heavy and had sudden extreme pain in that part of my back.I am in so much pain.
Did something bad happen.

[bigsissie]

It would not hurt to get it checked you could have reinjured the vertebrae or disc. The disc above the fusion would have to compensate for the lack of shock absorbency or something could have happened with the fusion site. Best wishes, Sissie

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

Well, without a detailed clinical evaluation it would be difficult to determine the cause of the pain. Possibilities that may need to be considered include fractures/ injuries to ligaments/ muscles, intervertebral disc prolapse, inflammation etc. I would suggest getting this evaluated by a neurologist or an orthopedician at your earliest convenience for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management. Meanwhile I would recommend bed rest. Tylenol/ OTC NSAIDS may be helpful for pain relief. If the pain is severe a visit to the ER may be suggested.
Hope this is helpful.

Take care!