Two week check-up: haven't taken narcotic pain meds in over a week, still have to use Valium to keep the muscle spasms in check. I can drive if I haven't taken any. Been able to walk 1 mile 4-5 days this past week! MAJOR achievment- pre- surgery I could barely walk up the driveway! Still have six weeks of my brace, then x-rays and follow-up to find out when I can start "rehab"- I have been told repeatedly that I didn't get this bad overnight, I won't get better overnight either.

Up and about the house most of the day- I take a 'rest' and watch a movie to break up the day. So far so good.