[Marilyn2016]

So, I've got multi-level spinal disc and facet joint degeneration. I'm 35, and I'm obese at this point. Limited movement with severe pain means less hours to push exercise in the pool, and absolutely no weights or running, which used to keep me much fitter.

I've been passed over for fusion surgery a few times now, but I'm seeing brand new neurologist in about a month. Maybe he will do it. I'm afraid of the usual things, fusion means loss of motion, less flexibility, and possibly no pain loss. However, I am realizing that whether I can manage the pain or not, I no longer have any real stability in my lower spine. I can't stand up or walk without looking absolutely ridiculous, needing help, and I won't bore you with my pain levels. I am to the point where even rolling onto my side to sleep is too difficult at night.

Decisions, decisions. So, if I go on without a fusion, my spine will just continue to collapse. Disc replacement is not an option, because I require at least three lumbar levels, and in the USA you're only allowed one...as far as insurance goes anyway. I could wait for technology to catch up, but who knows when the next disc is going to slip, as it doesn't take much. I ended up in the hospital for surgery over a disc slippage due to standing up too fast. Some people have weak bones, some weak immune systems, some poor eyesight, and I have a crummy spine.

Of course being overweight makes life so much more difficult, and doctors here look at me like I'm a joke. "Lose some weight and come back to see me in six months." I have heard this comment several times, and I just cannot get the weight off. If I work too hard in the pool, or too long, my back gets worse and I have to take days off swimming. If I don't work out at all, I might as well just throw myself a fat party everyday at the rate that I eat. Some say it's genetic, some say self control, others blame the meds. I don't really care what the problem is, I just need some help now to get better.

I accept that my spine will never be what it was six years ago, and a fusion could eventually make that worse. However, I've already been down the chronic opiate road, and that never ended my pain nor increased my ability to hold myself up, or even to lift a heavy purse. I feel so useless like this. Medical marijuana helps, but again I really need the stability and support of either metal rods and screws, or very well developed core and back muscles. Since I can't push through the pain to lose enough weight, I am going to fight to get a fusion. After two emergency surgeries, I am not going for a third last minute fix. I hope to plan better this time.

At several levels I have no lamina bones, and I think this could be the culprit, along with those lovely corroding facet joints, and missing discs. I honestly don't know how I stand up at all, but I can't take for granted I'll be able to do this well into my 40's or beyond.

Yes, I've done accupuncture, physiotherapy for years, pilates, yoga stretches at least once a day, and swimming, but it's just not enough. Anyone had a fusion out there? Anyone suffer with chronic pain and being obese? How do you get anything done?

I feel like I live in some bubble outside the real world or society, where life and things are happening, being accomplished, there are things to do and see....but I just can't participate in anything. I am always resting, stopping, slowing down, and this is not where I want to be.

A fusion is a real risk, but living like this, trapped by not only pain and immobility, but mental illness as well...it's just too much.

I even considered gastric bypass, or whatever the hell doctors do to take out half of your stomach, so you eat less. I'm that serious about eating less, and taking care of the weight. However, I think deep down exercise is the only way to stay fit. If I could only push myself further! UGH! So, maybe a fusion would help....I don't want to feel like an invalid for ever...

Until the next neurologist appointment, it's just more pain, a smaller world, as I am getting more and more anxious about going out, and venting on pc while half stoned on whatever is masking the stabbing feeling below my waist. Thanks for reading this whoever you are.....

[Skeezyks]

Hello Marilyn2016: I'm sorry you are having such difficulty. I've had some low back issues of my own over the years... not as severe as what you describe... but serious enough that I have some idea of what you're dealing with. I can well imagine how frustrating & demoralizing this all must be for you. I send healing thoughts your way with the hope that you will be able to get the treatment you need & find your way to a better life...

I had total disc replacement surgery in my neck and back, c5 and l4. Fusion was an option but this was better for me....perhaps inquire? I see this thread is a bit old, but wanted to let you know you may have more options. I am normal weight so I don't know about how obesity would factor in....just that my surgeon said it was good I wasn't overweight. Good luck...I found surgery worth it. My chronic pain is neck and back but c5 and l4....no problems.

[Dan208]

I'm sorry for what you are going through. I've suffered from back issues for over 15 years. Found out a few years ago that I have degenerative disc disease, bulging discs at L4/L5 and L5/S1 and two or three vertebrae that have old fractures in them. I'm usually stiff and sore, but every once in a while I'll have a flare-up that puts me out of commission.

Four years ago I had surgery and it helped a little, but I've got permanent nerve damage in my right leg now that causes extreme cramping if I move the wrong way.

I hope you find some relief. Back pain sucks.