How to Use the Toilet After Back Surgery or Injury Recovery

This video will outline equipment, setup and technique for using the toilet following or recovering from a back injury or surgical procedure that prevents bending and twisting.
0:00 Toileting after Back Surgery
0:33 Equipment
4:30 Clothing Management
6:39 Hygiene
Products:
Raised Toilet Seat
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Toilet Safety Frame
amzn.to/318kPm5
Standard Walker
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Reacher/Grabber
amzn.to/3jKJPpR
Luxe Neo 120 Bidet
amzn.to/3EpvabN
JUVO Wiping Aid
amzn.to/3BoCa6J
Folding Wiping Aid
amzn.to/3pSMnGq
A written version of this video is available at our website here: www.equipmeot.com/how-to-use-...

[@robinhoernschmeyer6423]

I just wanted to stop by and say thank you so much for this video. Last May my mom had to have her 4th major back surgery, and her 2nd fusion. I was not born yet for her first fusion, so I knew that things would look a lot different with this surgery than her 2nd and 3rd surgeries did. All of your tips helped me care for her at home so much easier than it would have been without. She LOVED the tool to give her the ability to help wipe herself on her own. During her first surgery, she had to have her mother or my father (her husband) come wipe her as these tools were not available to her (or at least no one showed them to her) in the 1980's when she had the first fusion. She was so worried about needing to have someone come help her stay clean after surgery this go around; and when I surprised her with that tool, an extra set of reachers, and some other helpful/easy to maneuver clothing, I think it took a lot of her anxiety and worries away. For caregivers who aren't sure how to help someone going through this surgery, videos like this are incredibly helpful. Thank you again so much, it truly made a bid difference in her recovery.

[@kitwren1797]

Thank you!!!! Yours is the FIRST video to show how to put the wipe wand BETWEEN one's legs. All the other videos make their demos look like you're supposed to reach around your hip to do it. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you.

[@maryjobetson1913]

I am five weeks post laminectomy now and I just wanna thank you very much for all of your ideas. I implemented everyone of them and it made a huge difference. I also would like to suggest anyone that’s having any type of back surgery even hip or knee surgery put silk sheets on your bed, what a difference it makes for sliding around and getting in and out. Also put plastic bag on your car seat for the ride home or anytime you have to get in check ups. go to backend seat. It’s super easy to slide yourself around in one piece without scooting.

[@rcole6679]

Awesome walker techniques! Never thought of turning the walker backwards, but it can see it’d be very useful. We’ve had a bidet seat for years and when we bought it, it was just a luxury. Now, it’s a necessity! Use those hand held extenders, when we’re traveling and I cannot recommended them more. They are essential! Thanks for posting this video!

[@EquipMeOT]

Wonderful! You’re welcome!

[@starb6rst2]

Having a Bidet installed will simplify and eliminate so many concerns! It seems like a luxury item until you find out how useful it is.

[@afeudale]

Totally! Even an add-on bidet is amazing. She has one installed in this video of you look closely. They are inexpensive to buy, easy to install and add to your existing toilet.

[@lindajohnson2149]

Agreed! We're loving our ToTo toilet bidet but wished it weren't $1k! My surgery was initially scheduled mid January, got and installed the bidet for Christmas, and now my fusion surgery was bumped until end of April. 🤔

[@grayceee3]

I’ve been freaking out about making the decision to get a microdiscectomy L5S1 due to all the post care/issues. But this really helped me calm down and be more prepared now.

[@amanda3651]

Omg thank u 😊😊I have L5 surgery next week. It’s my second back surgery. Thank u, I’m ordering everything now.

[@williambardisa217]

I wish you had demonstrated how to use the other “wiping stick” you had on the counter. That’s the one I have and I could use any tips on how to use it.

[@marv09117]

Thank you so much for this video. It’s going to help ease of my anxiety and prepare for this surgery.

[@conniewolf7300]

Having back surgery soon. Thanks for the tips.

[@gregwoyton7236]

Thank you kindly for this PSA .

[@mplslaker4237]

Thanks so much - packed with useful information.

[@sonjavorster1554]

Fantastic advice. I did get a toilet seat for more hight for mom after her back surgery but she still need my help on loo. This will help so much

[@LivingMyBestLife517]

Wow. Who knew! I had the grabber but not the other tools. I am having a spinal fusion surgery in a few months. All very helpful.

[@nancykartholl6175]

I watched this while my husband was in the OR for back surgery. Tremendously helpful!!

[@EquipMeOT]

So glad to help!

[@loutalksabouteverything2575]

what a GREAT video. thank you

[@catherinekalev5983]

Thank you so much for the information. This is so very helpful.

[@LORI6819]

Thank you for this video. Didn't think of cleaning my but. After back surgery. Love to hear the information on all of the solutions

[@GetOffTheLawn]

Thank you this really helped me out.

[@aaronnoisey3754]

Excellent and thorough video.

[@eleanorlovesearl]

Great video! I didn’t know about those items and would be helpful after surgery. Thank you.

[@mohammedabdulkhadeer7069]

Very detailed, very practical and very well demonstrated. Thank you

[@EquipMeOT]

You’re welcome!

[@QueenCreole77]

Very helpful thank you

[@user-nq4xp4qx9s]

I am an OTA student. This is a great practical video for toileting.! Thank you for making a senstive, private ADL so practical and easy.

[@EquipMeOT]

So glad you found it helpful!!

[@tanoajones3808]

Very informative. Thank you. Just had back surgery...l4 l5. Ugh...😶🙂

[@chaitanyagowni5304]

Thanku

[@HelenHudspith-]

I bought some clips on amazon for pulling pants up. You clip two little clips to the front of your pants, on either side, before you drop them. They have a wrist strap and so when you come to pull your pants back up, you just pull the strap.

[@lucyparker5346]

Awesome video helped me alot

[@JJ-cx8gl]

This video is fablous !!! I am traveling out of state for lumbar spine surgery and wont have the bathroom cnveniences at the VRBO.. but now I know what equipemnt I need to order to have what I need.

[@bobperry5037]

thank you!

[@mikeweible916]

thank you. so very helpful.

[@EquipMeOT]

You’re welcome!

[@beverlypearson5332]

I’m 10 days post-op from my 4th lumbar spine surgery, and I still learned a lot from your video. Great job discussing and demonstrating a kind of embarrassing subject. Thanks.

[@Lexila1936]

I don’t know how I managed without those tools after the 1st lumber fusion! Thanks for the advice! I’ll definitely use your helpful suggestions for my upcoming lumbar fusion. So not looking forward to it since I know how painful and difficult recovery will be 😢

[@SigmunFreud]

@@Lexila1936 I have a question please My fiancee has done the surgery of the 1st and 2nd vertebrae,, 24 hours after the surgery, she walked a few steps with my help,, my question is, will she return to his previous abilities in life forever? She has 24 questions

[@Lexila1936]

@@SigmunFreud I’m sorry that I’m just reading your comment. I’m currently recovering from yet another lumbar fusion surgery, this time L4-L5 was fused, almost exactly 10 years after fusion of S1-L5, and ACDF of C5-C6 in 2010. I had unstable lumbar spondylolethesis both times but this surgery revealed extensive damage in my spine. The surgeon was surprised that I was able to last two years with such significant damage and pain. It took them 8 hours to complete the surgery plus 2 blood transfusions Unbeknownst to him, I also had a herniated disc on top of severe stenosis. They had to “jack up” the vertebrae (his words) to be able to get the screws in. Waking up was extremely painful plus I had to lie completely flat for 48 hours because he accidentally cut the dura. Flat to avoid the spinal fluid from leaking, possibly causing severe headaches and needing to surgically repair it again. The only thing that was different for me this time around was that I knew exactly how much pain I could expect, that recovery also would be painful and difficult. If you have any questions, I’d be happy to answer them. I’m not a medical professional and can only speak to my experience and that I prepared myself mentally and physically for this painful surgery. I truly wish that surgeons would tell every patient what to expect re pain and limitation wise, that recovery takes long and doesn’t always resolve the pain and could result in new symptoms/pain and more surgeries down the road. I was lucky to have a surgeon who is very conservative in his approach to surgery and only recommends it if absolutely necessary. Thank you for letting me share and feel free to reach out. I’m keeping your fiancée in my thoughts!

[@joannemorris4451]

I wish I had seen this when I had my surgery in 2019. No one told me that I would have so much trouble in the bathroom. Thank you for this excellent video.

[@EquipMeOT]

You’re welcome!

[@junezydek1532]

I preferred soft nightgowns under my brace, but I wore undies. It was so much easier than dealing with pants on top of the undies. The nightgowns were great. I got them cheap at Kohl's and they were easy to launder and very soft to wear. I really didn't want pants around my incisions.

[@suwanatatnina]

Thank you so much. These are very important information for me.

[@EquipMeOT]

You’re welcome! So glad to share!

[@darlene6583]

Thanks for the great tips. Just had a double fushion and a Laminectomy.

[@physiotrendsqih4418]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/raGlop2iqr1gpbM

[@lorettas4443]

Thank you so much

[@EquipMeOT]

You’re welcome!

[@TheGearheadlife]

Just had my 4th brutal back surgery. This video was very helpful. Thank you.

[@jcaleca60]

Thank you

[@EquipMeOT]

No problem! Thank you for watching!

[@buggsy3194]

Thank you for the video I'm scheduled for spinal fusion in May 10 2023 been worried about this stuff thank you

[@EquipMeOT]

You're welcome! Best of luck on the upcoming surgery!

[@jamesramirez1567]

Just got my surgery on my lumbar L5S1 today ! Watching your video appreciate the tips❤

[@EquipMeOT]

Best of luck with your recovery!

[@mistaduval]

THANK YOU! I’m having a fusion in a month and this was one of my concerns. No one else talks about it.

[@EquipMeOT]

You’re welcome!

[@lindajohnson2149]

I'm there with you too. I'm so glad to have found this video and channel.

[@kaydublin5164]

Thank you so much, I’m thinking this is in my future.

[@EquipMeOT]

You’re welcome!

[@lisaf3039]

I'm having L3-4,L4-5 surgery next week and this is one of my concerns. Thank you for imformative video.

[@Fargosportsmassage]

Hi lisa how r you doing after your back surgery...thanks

[@mantyshub90]

How did it go.. how do you feel today

[@angieyoung7136]

Thank you so much for the information. I have back fusion Nov. 4th.

[@EquipMeOT]

You’re welcome! Good luck!

[@davidwestman4663]

Thank you for all the information. I subscribed to your channel several months ago as I was prepping for l4/l5 fusion. I installed the toilet riser with handles and used the Juvo trying to get technique down about a week prior to surgery. I'm 5 days post surgery and discoved toilet riser due to smaller opening can make toileting aid a little tougher to use. I removed the riser and with reverse walker self toileting is actually relatively simple. Your videos were so informative that my preperation knowledge did not require an in hospital visit from occupational therapy. Continued success. You're making a difference.

[@EquipMeOT]

Thank you so much for your story! I'm grateful to know this content is reaching people and helping them the way I hoped it would! Wishing you continued healing!

[@markblodget3255]

Very good information wish I would have seen it before surgery

[@EquipMeOT]

Thank you!

[@jamiehoule1583]

I love this! I'm preparing for lumbar surgery and videos like this are super helpful in finding things that will help me now while I wait for surgery and then during my recovery process. Super informative and gives me lots of ideas on handling situations I hadn't even thought of.

[@EquipMeOT]

I’m glad to help!

[@mantyshub90]

How did it all go

[@jamiehoule1583]

​@@mantyshub90 My surgery and recovery were both awesome! I had the surgery March 6th, so just over 2 months ago. I was off all daytime pain meds in less than 3 weeks, and off the nighttime pain meds 2 weeks later. I'm able to stand, walk, lift, and generally live "normal" life almost 100% pain free. I went from an average of 9/10 on the pain scale daily before surgery down to around 1/10 daily now. For the first time in over 8 years I'm able to completely take care of myself, my pets, and my house without having to decide which necessary task is more important because now I can do all of them in a day instead of weighing my pain levels against how badly something needs to be done. With the great tips I found before surgery from @EquipMeOT and others I was able to set my house up in a way that when I came home from surgery I was able to manage nearly every singly task and chore independently, even with major restrictions on lifting, bending, etc. There is a very slight possibility that I might need an additional surgery next year. I have a nerve conduction problem to one foot (from the original spine problem) which can take up to a year to resolve after my surgery. If I still have problems after a year I'll have to have another procedure. But so far it seems like the issue will resolve itself since my leg and foot are getting much stronger and I'm not having nearly as many problems with losing feeling or control of my foot. If I don't have to have another procedure then I'll be able to pass on all my adaptive aids that I used in recovery to someone else.

[@JLALALALA]

Jamie that’s great to hear about your recovery. I’m scheduled for spinal fusion surgery in a few weeks. Would you mind if I asked you what were the most important items you ended up using around your house to help you post surgery?

[@jamiehoule1583]

@@JLALALALAI had an L4/L5 fusion. Wiping aid - of the 3 styles I liked Juvo the best. Oh, and bring it to the hospital with you. I was in hospital for 4 days, but only 2 were with a Foley catheter. I was able to wipe myself without the Juvo in hospital, but it wasn't as easy as it could have been. I also really liked the handheld/portable bidet, but if I had to choose between them I would choose the wiping aid. Reacher/grabber tool. I really only liked the kind with the U shaped head. The other styles were pretty useless for me. I kept 2 in the kitchen (for picking up and lowering plates of food for my cats), one in my bedroom, and one that traveled around the house with me. Rolling tray table in my living room for my meals, water, and keeping tv remotes, etc organized. I don't have any normal tables or even a coffee table in my house, so this was probably the most helpful thing I had. Walker, but only for help getting on and off the toilet for the first day after I came home, and then just as a handle to help me get out of bed. As a handle by the bed I had it collapsed and wedged between the bed and the nightstand so it was very sturdy and secure. I was walking easily without it when I came home. Suction cup grab bars for the shower, a non-slip shower mat, and a loofah-on-a-stick were all necessary for me to shower. Normally I use a wash cloth for my body, but a long, narrow loofah was helpful for reaching all the nooks and crannies without any bending. A lightweight folding chair (I have litter boxes in 3 rooms so the chair had to be light enough to carry) and a long handle litter box scoop were necessary for taking care of my cats. A sturdy shelf thing set up at my front door for deliveries so that everything was at easy height for grabbing. Aside from those things I'd say put your back brace on and practice anything you would need to do after surgery to make sure you can do it, or to rearrange things to make it possible. I knew I would not be allowed to bend, but I didn't realize that squatting would be almost impossible for the first 2 weeks too. So keep that in mind. Oh, and they're likely to put you on like 5-7 medications that you'll need 2-4 times per day. So a pill organizer will be helpful. I was off most meds after 2 weeks, so I wouldn't recommend a really expensive organizer because you probably won't need it very long. I stocked up on all the heavy things I would need, like cat food and litter, prior to surgery. I was allowed to bend and start lifting more than 5 pounds 2.5 weeks after surgery, but it took another 2 weeks before I was able to do either comfortably. The first 2 days home from hospital I had a neighbor coming by to clean my cat litter boxes. And I had a housekeeper coming once a week to do most of my cleaning. I was doing my own cooking, dishes, and vacuuming (lightweight cordless vacuum), and taking out my trash from the day I came home. But I did need my neighbor to wheel my trash bin to the curb on collection days because it was too heavy for me for the first couple weeks.

[@bonniestone5662]

Excellent. I wish I had been taught early on

[@EquipMeOT]

Me too ☺️

[@waheguruwaheguru9176]

V nicely explained , TQ 🙏

[@EquipMeOT]

You're welcome 😊

[@Phuongnguyen-zr1in]

Thanks for sharing.

[@michellekenny7295]

Thank you so much for this informative video! My husband has just had lumbar revision and fusion and this has been one of our major concerns for him, especially since I return back to work next week.

[@EquipMeOT]

You’re welcome!

[@elainehendrix8788]

God bless you and your husband in his recovery now. I pray that he will look to God for his strength and guidance, and also be patient also!

[@elainehendrix8788]

I WANT TO INSTALL A BIDET TOO SINCE TODAYS RELEASE FROM THE HOSPITAL!! WHAT A HELPFUL IDEA!! THANKYOU FOR TEACHING US PATIENTS HOW TO CARE FOR OURSELVES SO THAT WE CAN REMAIN INDEPENDENT!! AWESOME IDEA!! 💝🙏💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕

[@EquipMeOT]

You’re welcome! We love a good bidet 👍🏻

[@mclevel9180]

Thank you so much for this helpful video that I need to know same to other patients that needs surgery. Really safe. Thanks a lot for making your video , priceless for the saving patients from risk/ful and the tips for comfortable especially when bathroom routine, cleanliness is very important . God bless you more more. Even for clothes the right to wear. Awesome video 👍👍👍👏👏👏

[@EquipMeOT]

Thank you!

[@mohammedabdulzafar254]

I fractured my pelvic bone so I had to undergo a surgery recently I was not knowing about this earlier. Thank you for your advise.

[@EquipMeOT]

You’re welcome!

[@tamorris5]

I'm about to have lumbar surgery #4, thank you for thr reminders and new "tricks". So very helpful.

[@physiotrendsqih4418]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/raGlop2iqr1gpbM

[@mando2.049]

Hey did you have a laminotomy ? L4/l5 on any of your surgery’s?

[@OhTryMe]

Thank you so much for this video. I’m have a spinal 360 day after tomorrow and was looking for tips that will help for care at home. Great video! And never even thought to do that with the walker!

[@oblivious_prime]

I'm just gonna wear a nightgown with no underwear while I'm recovering for the next 6 weeks...

[@Sbwell5472]

Very good suggestion! 🙏 Thank you!

[@lucyparker5346]

Great idea, me too

[@lucyparker5346]

What are these two tools called?

[@dawnquinones2145]

I worn diapers to pee in.

[@sf1144]

I WORE the hospital gown home!! Don't need to change

[@marv09117]

Does the bidet work the same with a raised toilet seat? Thank you for this awesome helpful video.

[@garykennedy4510]

Fantastic vid, thank you.

[@bryanwalker6125]

This woman is not a paraplegic. She stands, walks, and twists so easily. The teaching is better done by a genuinely disabled person.

[@mikezipparo1497]

Thank you 🙏🏼 sent this to my Dad who was a having back surgery my mom was very happy not have to wipe his but😂 Doctors don’t really prepare them for it they were going to have a meeting right after surgery…

[@shalacarter6658]

Thank you for this video. I wear dresses, so the part about pulling up pants is resolved. :)

[@EquipMeOT]

Dresses are definitely the easiest option 😉

[@sherh316]

THANK YOU so much for this video! I’m getting a spinal fusion in May. I didn’t even know aids like this existed!

[@EquipMeOT]

You’re welcome!

[@bassodyssey100]

Spinal fusion you might want to get a second opinion have you looked into endoscopic not an expert just saying

[@sanjuancity9104]

During my spinal fusion recovery, I found flushable wipes (Walmart carries them) a plus with the extended reach handle and the ultimate toilet bowl accessory is the bidet. The VA also provided me with a toilet bowl seat riser, which is optional but may not work well with the bidet.

[@SigmunFreud]

@sanjuancity9104 I have a question please My fiancee has done the surgery of the 1st and 2nd vertebrae,, 24 hours after the surgery, she walked a few steps with my help,, my question is, will she return to his previous abilities in life forever? She has 24 questions

[@victorialopez9717]

Great tips...but what do you do when you are lower income and you can't afford to buy all this stuff? But the walker trick is great! I'll have to see if I can do that in my powder room which is really tight and the walker barely fits in there.

[@ashleymcpherson6816]

How do you get on and off the toilet after having left knee surgery

[@user-wy1wt9bq9d]

I had back surgery 3weeka ago for scatia and I still have the pain from hip to my foot

[@chantalbarry3023]

Tinkyou Beautiful

[@dylanjames4824]

Now I’ve had 4 spinal fusions should I be doing this forever should I get used to it or relax it with more time? My last surgery was October 29th

[@karenchartrandhowdoyouinst1650]

How do you attach to a skirted toilet. The space is to tight to tighten the hose

[@shirleybrown9219]

GReat video😊

[@shirleybrown9219]

Couldn’t find where to purchase items 😮

[@EquipMeOT]

All items should be in the description under the video title.

[@kurtrinadennis7959]

I agree with you. I was constipated after my lumbar Laminectomy as well for (9 whole days without having the urge to go). I tried every over the counter product without any success for about 3days. So I finally decided to go to the ER and have an X-ray done just to make sure I didn’t have any problems as far as being impacted or anything else. Thankfully it was not impacted (but I did have a large amount of bowel in my intestines. Finally I was prescribed Kristalose (lactose) 10mg 2x/day. And within 24 hours I had a BM. I was worried about twisting and bending as well. But I was told to wear my back brace while I went to the restroom, which helps keep you from doing just that. And as far as straining, I did very little of that and more so just relaxed and allowed it to come out on it’s own. Yes, it may take a little bit longer to empty out your bowels, but it reduces the strain that it ultimately puts on your lower back with straining. I had my surgery on Feb 10, 2022. And I think I put more strain on my back due to the fact of not properly doing log rolls. Now my back is in even more pain than I was when I first left the hospital. It feels extremely sore and painful even when I take my pain medication. I feel as though something is moving in my lower back and when lying down, it feels like I’m lying on a brick. As well as a sharp jolt like shooting pain going from my right thigh up to my right buttocks and finally into my lower back. I don’t know if that’s normal or what…I don’t even like standing up anymore because it’s so painful. But I have my post op appt this week to get checked out. I hope everything works out for you and your situation. And thank you for the informative video. The log roll is working for me now….and my apologies for the long reply.

[@Bovinenthusiast]

Any update on your pain post-op? Was snythjng revealed at your appointment?

[@estelanavalenzuela311]

They have the big seat with a handles on it for the toilet

[@gjop-xm2xe]

Can you use the budget with a three in lift seat

[@Sbwell5472]

Equipment OT I would love to know what your name is. For now, I'm going to call you, my angel. 🙏 thank you so much! I've been SoOooo worried about these details after my THR coming up in less than two weeks. Im going to recommend your video to the nurse coordinator. As compassionate and helpful, their team is, I am truly surprised they dont offer video links to your channel already!

[@karolinakv]

Is is possible to bend from the upper areas of the spine to help with wiping /washing? If you can block the operated area?

[@Sternschnuppen85]

When would you recommend using just the walker placed backwards over the toilet vs other DME? Is that just in case they are unable to get the other items? Thanks for all your help, explanations and videos!! :)

[@EquipMeOT]

Walker over the toilet is usually in a situation when no other options are available. It’s not going to be as stable as the alternatives, but it’s certainly more portable.

[@jmardinly]

Another reason why I told my surgeon he could operate on me after it snows in Phoenix in July, or after I am dead, whichever comes first.

[@jcaleca60]

Where i find the stick reach stick😮😮

[@michaelreagan2295]

Incredibly helpful. I have asked several nurses how to go about this important daily function; no answer. YOU have made me more comfortable in preparing for lumbar surgery two days from now. Thank You!

[@EquipMeOT]

Best of luck!

[@mantyshub90]

How did surgery go.. and how are you feeling now

[@michaelreagan2295]

@@mantyshub90 my laminectomies and foraminotomies L3-L4, L4-L5, L5-S1 is 100% successful....WooHoo! Had an incredible surgeon with an incredible support staff. I suffered mightily with sometimes debilitating sciatica from August 26, 2022 up to surgery on March 21, 2023. I am no pain free and loving life. Thank You for asking!

[@mantyshub90]

@@michaelreagan2295 i need a fusion l5s1 l5l4 anterior

[@michaelreagan2295]

@@mantyshub90 By THE GRACE OF GOD, my surgery was 100% successful. Thank you for asking. Of course I have to watch what I am doing for another couple months until I get back in some semblance of physical shape; but I am working on that too. Soon, I will be kayak fishing, chasing grandkids, and working in the yard full force. Kudo's to Dr. Todd Patrick and his staff; they are Blessed by GOD to be able to do such amazing work.

[@user-fl4ec3xd8e]

What is a bidet

[@dr.lindastrommen494]

What is the name of the wiper you put the tissue on. I want to look for it to purchase. Thans. Your video was awesome!!! Thanks Linda

[@EquipMeOT]

I believe this is the one your talking about: amzn.to/3S7jIsu

[@Sternschnuppen85]

I never knew if having the walker over the toilet like that was safe or not/or if the walker would slip from pushing up like that. Is it still better to have a safety frame or BSC over though? Such great videos and tips-thank you!! :)

[@EquipMeOT]

It is pretty secure, but I do prefer a safety frame for longer term or heavy use! Thanks for watching!

[@Elzoony]

Can I use the walker in front of me? It won’t fit in my bathroom frame to put it behind me.

[@barbaraeddings2274]

I had this surgery5 days ago. Thankfully it stopped the nerve pain from my hips to my foot. This is very useful video. My husband installed a bidet for me. Love it. Will be watching more of your videos. Thank you. Do you have any that describe when (weeks) the pain gets better?

[@EquipMeOT]

Glad it was helpful! There isn't a standard for when pain improves because it's truly different for everyone, but typically after the first 4 weeks things start to improve for many.

[@user-wy1wt9bq9d]

How did they relieve your pain

[@kareninalabama]

Great video! I'll be having cervical ACDF surgery (C3-7), so I'm wondering what are the differences I'll face compared to if I was having lumbar surgery. I understand that I won't be able to tilt my neck, and I noticed as you were lowering yourself onto the seat, you tilted your head to look down (as I would normally do too.) I'm realizing just how often during the day I tend to look down or to the right or left. I am REALLY dreading this surgery based on all the limitations I'll face afterwards (and having to wear that immobilizing collar for months), although I know it's all necessary. Your videos are helping to ease my mind. Thank you for that.

[@OhTryMe]

I had an ACDF C3-C7 December 17, 2022 and it was honestly a walk in the park. I know everyone is different but when I woke up after surgery I was as already in the neck collar. That stabilized the neck so I didn’t have to worry about accidentally turning or twisting it. You can bend just fine at the waist. Didn’t have to have any special equipment at home except the reacher (huge help if I dropped the remote and didn’t want to bother anyone to come get it for me.) We already had a built in bench seat in the shower and the handheld we keep off the hook so I didn’t have to fumble reaching up. That’s probably the main thing was not being able to reach up like usual. But I’m 6 months post op and I had my collar off 2 weeks after surgery. I don’t have any limits of turning my neck in any direction (I ride motorcycles and this was a huge concern of mine), bending, or reaching up above my head. I can literally tilt my entire head back. The only issues I’ve experienced was some numbness and tingling in my arms and hands every once in a while as I’ve been healing but that has gotten less and less as the months go by. Don’t regret it one bit. I think I took pain pills the first 3 days and then none after that. I hope this helps.

[@MadTracker]

@@OhTryMe oh your comment truly puts me at ease, thank you! I’m preparing for the same surgery and I’m so nervous. Bless you for taking the time to detail your experience. I hope you’re doing well now ❤

[@MadTracker]

I hope you’re recovering well @kareninmelbourne ❤

[@Lexila1936]

I’ve had ACDF surgery and a lumbar fusion and can honestly say that recovery and pain from the cervical fusion was nothing compared to the lumbar fusion recovery. I was out walking after a few days and back at work 4 weeks later. The lumbar fusion left me in chronic pain, on a walker for 2 years and unable to return to work. Ten years later, I’m needing another lumbar fusion due to spondylolethisis, drop foot, spinal instability and more pain. I’m dreading the surgery but must have it. That said, only ever have spine surgery if absolutely necessary because it doesn’t always relieve the pain and can cause more problems in the future. A responsible surgeon will have a conservative approach and will never opt for surgery unless absolutely necessary.

[@Lexila1936]

@@MadTrackerI was a yoga teacher prior to ACDF C5-6 and able to practice and teach again afterwards. But after a necessary lumbar fusion S1-L5, I was never able to practice again.

[@rcole6679]

Get a full bidet seat, like Brondell Washlette, which has an air dryer. No TP needed!

[@mplslaker4237]

Just wondering about the seat. Concern is over the curve at the back of the seat and whether that will be a problem for someone who has a L3/L4 laminectomy. The video shows an add-on kit which may not work as well, but would use a flat seat. Any opinion?? Thanks.

[@lisapitts9518]

My fusion was in 2008 and was never told any of this.

[@amyginsburg]

I wish I had found this sooner. Nobody ever explained this stuff to me before I went home and now, I'm worried that I may have twisted or bent myself. One suggestion for àn additional video - how to deal with constipation without damaging yourself. I've used the stool softeners, the Miralax, the hydration, the high fiber foods and frequently have the urge to go. But it is still difficult to completely empty things out. I've a bad habit of leaning forward and straining till I feel like I've gotten everything out. I use a squatty potty but that seems to slow things down whereas the straining and leaning gets the job done... Still requiring a great deal of effort. But, at least I feel some relief. Now that I've seen this video, I'm going to refrain from leaning forward. But I'm scared that I may have already done some damage.

[@kurtrinadennis7959]

I agree with you. I was constipated after my lumbar Laminectomy as well for (9 whole days without having the urge to go). I tried every over the counter product without any success for about 3days. So I finally decided to go to the ER and have an X-ray done just to make sure I didn’t have any problems as far as being impacted or anything else. Thankfully it was not impacted (but I did have a large amount of bowel in my intestines. Finally I was prescribed Kristalose (lactose) 10mg 2x/day. And within 24 hours I had a BM. I was worried about twisting and bending as well. But I was told to wear my back brace while I went to the restroom, which helps keep you from doing just that. And as far as straining, I did very little of that and more so just relaxed and allowed it to come out on it’s own. Yes, it may take a little bit longer to empty out your bowels, but it reduces the strain that it ultimately puts on your lower back with straining. I had my surgery on Feb 10, 2022. And I think I put more strain on my back due to the fact of not properly doing log rolls. Now my back is in even more pain than I was when I first left the hospital. It feels extremely sore and painful even when I take my pain medication. I feel as though something is moving in my lower back and when lying down, it feels like I’m lying on a brick. As well as a sharp jolt like shooting pain going from my right thigh up to my right buttocks and finally into my lower back. I don’t know if that’s normal or what…I don’t even like standing up anymore because it’s so painful. But I have my post op appt this week to get checked out. I hope everything works out for you and your situation. And thank you for the informative video. The log roll is working for me now….and my apologies for the long reply.

[@amyaaron7141]

Milk of Magnesia. A big swallow is all you need.

[@lorrainegagnon9141]

@@kurtrinadennis7959 nonnonnnn

[@guyazbell7844]

Will it work for spinal fractures and dislocated spine.

[@EquipMeOT]

As long as you have the same precautions addressed in the video, yes, it should work.

[@daisymc3472]

Thank you so much for this video my husband just saw the orthopedic Dr and he's going to need surgery. How tall should the toilet be for someone that's 6 feet?

[@EquipMeOT]

18-20” should be enough height for someone 6’. Closer to 20” will be easier to use early in the recovery.

[@physiotrendsqih4418]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/raGlop2iqr1gpbM

[@francessmith4903]

Perfect Video. Thank you! Ten thumbs up if I had ten thumbs. THANK YOU

[@EquipMeOT]

You’re welcome!!

[@eleanorlovesearl]

Can you use a badae with a raised toilet seat?

[@EquipMeOT]

Yes, I did a video with this setup and you can also buy a bidet/raised toilet seat combo by Drive Medical on Amazon. kzbin.info/www/bejne/gKHSopSagt97oNU amzn.to/3uLMUPo

[@geniek82]

I wish I had known about this last week. I've been using the bathroom pretty normally, I mean as carefully as I can, but none of these tools. I'm hoping I didn't risk reherniation. I'm one week after a microdiscectomy. No one told me about how to use the bathroom, just said no bending, twisting, or lifting. I'm getting scared bc I don't want to go through that sciatic pain again. 😭 My back still feels sore at the surgical spot. Not sure what's normal and what's not.

[@momEo3]

Same information I was given. Not one nurse or doctor said I was going to the bathroom incorrectly while I was in the hospital. And I really haven't had much difficulty at home. I hope I haven't done anything to jeopardize my surgery. Those stick things wouldn't have worked for me. They seem more troublesome and maybe even unsanitary if it touches somewhere it's not supposed to. My surgery was 12 days ago.

[@geniek82]

​@@momEo3 So to ease some of your anxiety, the pain didn't come back, although I'm sure everyone's experience is different. However, sometimes, I get some of the ghost of the pain whenever I've done too much, if that makes any sense. It's nowhere near how it was before. That pain was horrendous. It's more like a reminder to slow down and do less. Some of the residual, lingering effects is extra stiffness. They don't talk about that. I can no longer sit cross-legged on the floor, and it hurts to try to cross my legs, in general. My hips sometimes get a weird tweak when I overstretch somehow. I probably need physical therapy, but my doctor forgot to schedule the follow-up, and I didn't know better. I still haven't because I've been having issues with workerman's comp, which is another story. Anyway, I'm sure it'll get better with stretching and time. I'm about 5 months post-op. So, long story short, you'll heal fine even without the butt wipe. I strongly believe you also need to start moving normally eventually and less like a robot. The no BLT should only go for so long or you risk losing flexibility. Follow-up with your doctor and definitely a physical therapist. Don't be scared to ask about anything and everything or feel like you're bothering them with your questions. It's their job to not only inform you, but to reassure you so you can focus on healing. Wishing you all the best and a swift recovery!

[@parispoet]

Thank you for posting this video! I accidentally came across it while researching my surgery procedure. I am having outpatient back surgery on my L-5 S-1 lumbar (facet fusion) and I was very concerned about using the toilet since they say you can't bend your back for several weeks. I don't have a walker so will need to order it from my Insurance company. That is brilliant putting it behind you to use! I am ordering the grabber which looks like a lifesaver from Amazon. But have never even seen a toilet paper grabber!! Wow...lol So I understand that's to wipe the front. But how do you wipe the back with this thing becuz you can't twist your back. Definitely have to order one before surgery!

[@EquipMeOT]

When wiping the back, you'll still use the wiping aid and go from front to back but you'll want to make sure it's long enough to be able to reach the back without bending. I love adding a simple hand held or toilet mounted bidet to really take the burden away from toileting hygiene after surgery!

[@parispoet]

@@EquipMeOT Thank you for your reply! I don't have a bidet & would like to get one but have no one to install it. The the wiping aid is the link in your video?

[@EquipMeOT]

Yes, all links to items in the video are in the description.

[@dannagordon9618]

@@EquipMeOT you are a witch for telling me, who is alone on social security completely, no family, to buy and have installed a bidet! how insensitive can you get????? Plus my bathroom and house is FAR too tiny to get a walker into my bathroom, much less my house rooms! Think before you make any videos fr all these rich people!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@marshallcollins8634]

@Parispoet Try habitat for humanity. Every one I have ever been in has had them. The most I have seen them sell for is $20. Most are $10/!5. Most insurance companies will only allow for 1 device . So you may want to use it for an item that is expensive or hard to find cheap.

[@kellycruz965]

We can't we have an extremely small bathroom

[@Sternschnuppen85]

You can have them wipe from the side with use of AE too, right? As Long as they have a neutral spine?

[@EquipMeOT]

Absolutely! I struggle to keep that position neutral with many of my patients.

[@karolinakv]

​@@EquipMeOT Thank you, found my answer. So thankful I started pilates for 13 years ago.

[@tommunson7726]

If you add a raised toilet seat can you still add a bidet?

[@EquipMeOT]

I did a video about a setup that works with a bidet and raised toilet seat. kzbin.info/www/bejne/gKHSopSagt97oNU

[@wimhoek4175]

When you sit down on the toilet, your chest was leaning forward. If you really broke your'e back. Believe me, dont do that!

[@romea_alfo]

👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼