Help. I had L4-5 microdisectomy with L5 laminectomy in July of 2007. During surg had a CSF leak that was patched. 4 days post-op CSF leak recurred. 6 days of flat on my back bedrest did not resolve. Was readmitted to hospital and a drain was placed. Developed fever and was put on ABs. After 8 days in-pt was dc'd to home.
Honestly, I felt better the 1st 4 days post-op than the next two months after the 2nd hospital stay. I really think it was from being flat on my back and immobile for those two weeks. Probably the worst thing to have to do post surg.
Anyway, although I'm just incredibly better than I was pre-op, I have this chronic pain. It is much worse after sleeping for a few hours. In fact, if I lie down (in any position) for more than a few minutes, it is incredibly difficult to get up. It's like I'm stuck. I have to use my arms to shift my hips/back and to push myself to a sitting position. Often there is an incredible stabbing pain when trying to move from a lying position.
I'm exhausted. I swear, I haven't slept through a night in over a year!
Other things of note, I have moderate degenerative changes and stenosis. Also, I visited a chiropractor recently (I'm trying everything!) who stated that I had a sacralized L5-S1. However, that was not noted on any of the MRIs I had done which makes me think it likely isn't the case. Additionally, I have a herniation at T-11. I don't really think I have any problems with that.
I have taken hydrocodone (1/2 of a 7.5mg...I'm a pain med woos!) at bedtime with "okay" results.
Does anyone have any idea what is going on?