Must-Have Items for Spinal Fusion Surgery Recovery (ALIF)

In this video, I discuss some items that I feel helped me with recovery after my spinal fusion.

[@signalfire6691]

No one mentions getting a bidet to clean after BMs. If you can't afford one or can't install it, use a water bottle filled at the sink to wash with. Not having to twist to wipe is a very good idea.

[@LivingMyBestLife517]

I took my travel pillow with me to the hospital for my TLIF. That was a fabulous tip. I was able to sleep easily and watch TV in comfort. Even my nurses said more people should know to bring those with them.

[@rise12071]

I AM SO SCARED I AM IN PAIN, CANCEL SURGERY SO MANY TIMES, I NEED HELP, BUT YOU ARE FABULOUS, AND THANK YOU SO MUCH I AM 52 YEARS YOUNG, BUT HORRIBLE WHEN IT COMES TO PAIN, YOU GIVE ME STRENGTH, THANK YOU IF ANYONE CAN ENCOURAGE ME ,I WILLING TO READ AND LISTEN

[@majidkarimi5845]

NEVER NEVER DON'T IT

[@GodLovesYou5635]

are you ok? Was reading comments and thought I would ask how you were doing

[@charlenemarion5678]

Homeopathy remedies apis mellifica helps nerve pain arnica Montana helps with brushing swelling and pain. Silk sheets are a must.

[@specag31]

No honest surgeon will operate on someone in such fear. Seek psychiatric assistance. You fear might indicate that you don't😊 believe surgery will help.

[@yolandabutts649]

Im am going to surgery soon and I'm so excited to get my life back. At first I was scared until I saw a few videos including yours. I feel much better about the surgery. Thank you for your story. How are you doing now?

[@sunny3870]

I was at a Baylor Scott and White hospital. Had the best care EVER!! Lakeway Tx. Dr Burnt and his crew nurses staff and house keepers cafeteria staff. PT and anyone else I have forgotten I apologize if I forgot someone. Everyone was so kind helpful lovable. . Very professional!! First week at hospital stay stuff you mentioned is not needed till you go home .

[@annasophia6311]

Thank you for making this video. You are so sweet to take the time to do this!

[@bobbers1880]

Thank you for your videos. I am two weeks post op. I had a spinal lumbar fusion L3&L4. I've had back issues since 1983. Last spring, I've been having issues with my sciatica to where I could not sleep at night. So now I've had my surgery and basically hating that I cannot bend over, twist and lay in bed. I am slowly feeling a little better every day. The pain I feel now is different than before surgery. I have hooting pain in my hip, burning in my back and feeling really stiff. I realize I am only 2 weeks post op. I believe things will get better as time goes on.

[@KBradAdams]

How are you doing now Bobbers? I bet much better or I hope much better now.

[@gailenlovett4230]

Thanks so much! Nice to see how good you’re doing. Wishing you all the best.

[@mixinfotv7581]

Keep updating.good luck with recovery

[@montaraful]

Hi Jennae, thank you so much for sharing. Very helpful for all people facing spinal surgery. Can you please post an update on how you are going a year on?

[@mirinewcome3000]

Back scratcher- brilliant. Needed it desperately today.

[@blessedladyrobinson5674]

Thanks so much you have been lifesaver with this info.

[@omarcaballero9680]

Thanks for the informative sequence of events and recovery. Planning for November and it definitely helps to get the helpful details. I hope you have recovered more.

[@TheKlisenby1]

Thank you for taking the time to share

[@dalalli]

This was VERY helpful! I'm a week out from surgery and you've helped build my list for home! Hope you're healed up well!

[@haganengr]

This was hugely helpful for me. I’ve watched all of your videos. The knee pillow is my favorite. Side sleeping is the way to go. Thanks so much!

[@mikey67nz]

I just want to take a minute to thank you for sharing. Really appreciate it. I’m facing ALIF and your videos are really helpful

[@andyman7931]

would love to see another update post surgery. Found your videos very helpful and informative as I'm 3 weeks away from the same surgery. Thanks a bunch for documenting your journey.

[@MrRockrobstr]

Thanks. I’m facing this lovely ordeal, possibly sooner than later, and all of your advice makes complete sense.

[@blairewellington9906]

used your suggested top 10 things to aid in my XLIF recovery. EXCELLENT list! Thank you so much for sharing :)

[@thevatharshinitiruchellven8902]

im getting my spinal fusion for scoliosis on 2nd Oct n this is very helpful i hope you hv a speedy recovery

[@KonfusedDude]

Thanks for your videos. I had Alif/plif 360. Great suggestions

[@Jazzstandardsrw]

Thank you so much for your thoughtful video! Well done! And very helpful.

[@levitahigh7028]

Thank you Jennae for the info. I have my ALIF in two weeks and I am super nervous but your video helped me understand what items I might need for recovery.

[@user-zn6nt3mi5h]

I never would of thought of using a plastic bag that’s a great idea thank you. I am preparing for a spinal fusion, L5 S1, so I’m glad I was able to catch your video

[@helenrankin1449]

I found the grabber very helpful for pulling up knickers!

[@donnadrialo3990]

Thank you. I am 74 and will be having this surgery soon, this was very helpful.

[@debracollins4102]

A sleep mask is helpful in case you want to sleep during the day or when the lights are on. There is also a help aid for reaching your backside with toilet paper. And a long handled bath sponge for the shower to reach everything.

[@donnadrialo3990]

Jennae, I had my ALIF/TLIF surgery 2 weeks ago. Your advice about satin pajamas made my life SO much easier, thank you, thank you, thank you!

[@JP-sl4po]

Jenna this was helpful. I am about to have the fusion at my l5-s1. I have had two discectomy laminectomy’s, but still problematic, deciding to do as mentioned. Third time is a charm. So I have some experience with the surgery obviously, but I sure am dreading this fusion, but again, you were helpful.

[@user-md8ni8ut9p]

Thank you for posting your journey. I always think I should be further along than I am but your videos help to pace me. I have pain down my legs and I’m stiff every morning. It’s like starting over every day. I walk only once a day for a mile. It helps. Please keep posting.

[@brendah4689]

Thank you so much going to meet with my neurosurgeon soon to see what I need repaired

[@talshapi6514]

Thank you for sharing, I am glad that I watched your video it will really help me.

[@jimherington12453]

Thanks for your suggestions.😊

[@rong...5837]

Thank you again. I'm taking your advice

[@srs3572]

This was so very helpful. Thank you for this video!

[@tammysaur7891]

Thank you very much I was wondering what I needed

[@justinlopez1498]

Thanks for the advice I have one coming up

[@annettebreen4410]

I’ve watched a ton of videos on the subject. Yours was the most helpful so far. My spinal fusion is September 19. Thanks for your tips and hope you are doing well.

[@KBradAdams]

Any updates Annette? Did you have the surgery? How are you feeling.

[@lannybailey4871]

Very good info! I am scheduled Oct 25th for a 4 level fusion. Thanks :)

[@mikeweible916]

Thank you. This was very, very helpful.

[@lifeform749]

Thank you Jennae for your very helpful videos. I’m having an anterior ALIF and posterior fusion surgery Tuesday after my ADR failed last fall. I greatly appreciate all the information you have shared. I hope you are doing well 2 years out and living life happily. Very Best, Alex

[@asmith4078]

Im having the same surgery... how was your recovery?

[@Itsbriannarc]

Thank you for posting! Would love to hear how you are doing now!

[@hg8972]

Thank you Jennae. I’m 3 weeks out of surgery and this was helpful. Please let us know how you’re doing. I didn’t get much info from the hospital so I don’t know what to expect as far as recovery is concerned. Thanks again!

[@lazerkaboom]

Jennae! Thank you so much for making these videos. I watched your whole series and they definitely prepared me for my spinal fusion I just received. You rock. How are you feeling these days? Thanks again and much love to you.

[@karolinakv]

Such a helpful list! ❤

[@kathyf7862]

Thank you! So helpful!

[@michellea7723]

Thank u hope u have recovered

[@mychaelpierce8049]

Thanks for the tips. I have my surgery in a few weeks. Hope your doing well.

[@cheryledwards3054]

Having ALIF in a few weeks. Thank you for tips. Note - please be sure to check with your surgeon regarding the heating pad. My renowned surgeon does not allow heat first 6 weeks as it increases risk of infection

[@shortpam]

Thank you for this video! Very helpful, as I'm facing L5-S1 fusion surgery some time soon.

[@brittanyobrien7495]

Have surgery?

[@christinedimalanta-frazzio6052]

Thank you so much!

[@karenpontarelli4814]

Thanks I’m 4 months old of a fusion T10 to the pelvis. I already have most of the items but the idea of a satin pillow case for May seat cushion is great!

[@MrHammod22]

Hi im disc t6

[@missduckieee]

My daughter is gonna be around T2- possible pelvis. How do you feel now months after the surgery? Any tips you could recommend would be truly appreciated. Thank you 😊

[@2kallday284]

#4 - great bottle !

[@alexgarcia3388]

helpful presentation

[@MoparGuy1625]

I love your smile!

[@olisaprice9870]

Amazing video

[@Keeper_Of_The_Kee]

Thank you for this✨️💖✨️

[@KayeMaytum]

Thanks for all the wonderful advice. Surgery in 5 weeks. 😊

[@shuggirl]

I've decided to have the surgery in a couple of weeks. I'll be in a wheelchair if I don't. I'm having a lumbar infusion. Amazon has a hip surgery kit that has everything you need for surgery. It helps with everything you need, including a grabber. It cost about 30.00. You suggested a couple of things like the garbage bag. Thanx for sharing.

[@brittanyobrien7495]

How did it go

[@sunny3870]

Flushable wipes is a must take.

[@daniellemeunier9875]

Thank you so much , il Will Have suggère like you soon !

[@buzzsah]

I had the same thing done in 04. Went in on a Monday 08:00, was home Tuesday 11:30, went back to work the following Monday, 7 days later. However, 4 - 5 months later scar tissue started to invade S1 and the pain started to come back.

[@vshevde]

Thank you so much for making these videos. I am preparing for the same surgery as you, and your videos boosts my morale for sure . Can you share how soon you were able to return to work, and do any sort of travel? How are you feeling now after a year. Appreciate your videos and wishing you best for continued recovery.

[@KBradAdams]

Any updates Vikram?

[@LifeWithScoliosis]

Great video!

[@kariedech6931]

Hi. I am 3 weeks post surgery…I I can relate to everything you have explained in your videos! Please post an update as I see you are about 1 year post and I would really appreciate a further update so that I can get an idea of what to expect 🙏 Thank for all you have posted so far…I pray that you are doing well now. Best wishes!

[@johnmitchell8925]

How bout 3 to 4 years

[@loreenheggli438]

ALIF L5-S1 coming up 1/18/24. I’m in my 60’s (a lot older than you) hoping for the same results. God bless. Thank you for the must haves and your journey through this process. Much appreciated 😊 Wish me Luck!

[@Keeper_Of_The_Kee]

My thoughts of healing, comfort, and peace going out to you as your surgery should have taken place at the time of this reply. I hope all is well with you!

[@loreenheggli438]

Almost 3 weeks s/p operation. Had severe nausea from anesthesia but resolved in a day. Thankfully my son is a nurse and had rotating help for 1-1/2 weeks. Seeing surgeon tomorrow for suture removal! I feel great! Thank you for the well wishes! 😊

[@Brineytoes]

Thank you!

[@jean-pierreoudin5293]

Same surgery (ALIF L5-S1) last Feb 23rd.Did you have still pain in your leg 3 weeks after ? Sneezing is tough . Is it harmful for the new disk and screws ? How many time are you allowed to be sit ? is it bad for the surgery to be sit ? I am looking forward to watching your update.... Thx for the videos. very helpful so far !

[@conniewolf7300]

Thank you.

[@thepoboy9698]

I'm in week two post op L3 S1 TLIF, and believe me you're spot on about that reacher. Lol

[@Russteevee]

Your list of must haves is PERFECT! I am now four weeks out of L3,4,5,S1 and everything you mentioned would help. Not sure about the nightgown in my case. LOL. Great video, thanks!

[@mikelaffoon5986]

Men's version is called a night shirt.

[@brittanyobrien7495]

How did urs go was it a fusion? Open back surgery?

[@Russteevee]

@@brittanyobrien7495fusion

[@maryallison0509]

I’m 10 months out post op. I was fused T2 to L5. So neck to bum crack. So the back scratcher wasn’t really a option for me. Because of how long and high my fusion goes I won’t ever be able to bend down and touch the ground. So I was sent home with a sock tool. That was a incredible help. All I had to do was put the sock on the tool. Drop it on the floor and slip my foot in. And take the long rope and pull up. As my foot goes into the sock the tool pulls out. Then I do the same on the other. And I got such a laugh when I saw your gripe stick. I was sent home with one. And I ended up buying a bunch so I have one in each room. I drop stuff all the time too. Everyone was annoyed before before I got the additional sticks. And I never thought of the plastic bag to help scoot into the car. I don’t need it anymore but what a great idea. I wish I would of saw this before surgery. Lots of great helpful things were listed.

[@journeyflores3918]

Oh my gosh... how are you now?? I'm sorry you have to live with your back like this condition :(

[@qwertyhimym]

what is your mobility like? any tips? thank you and I hope youre doing well

[@helenrankin1449]

I've got to make a decision about a fourth spinal op at l4/5. This time a fusion with screws etc, already had laminectomy, ilif fusion and sideways discetomy.... I think a posterior fusion. Great to see how others have/are coping after fusion.

[@brittanyobrien7495]

Why so many has it failed or caused more damage?

[@helenrankin1449]

@@brittanyobrien7495 y have a degenerative spine. The fusion worked well and I was out of pain for a couple of years. Last year I stumbled and blew an L2 facet joint, a synovial cyst developed and I now need decompression surgery. ( The cyst did disappear but is now back) Hopefully I'll not need another fusion there. So grateful to my surgeon.

[@JoseEstrada2313]

You should definitely do a video explaining what was going on before surgery. The amount of pain level you were, what you did before to avoid the surgery, why the Surgeon Decided to go with that type of surgery. It will definitely help all of us That’s going through a type of back problem. Just a tip! but thanks for the videos hope you’re doing great!!!!

[@KBradAdams]

I agree I asked that question on a video earlier when she was about to be released but no reply. Curious if she has any updates to these videos? Hopefully everything is going well for you now and Pain Free! Please update us.

[@johnmitchell8925]

@@KBradAdams good luck with that.3 to 4 years out you won't hear from too many patient's.They say the fusions last about 4 or 5 years and the more vertebra they fuse the quicker the remaining disk degenerate.im at 6 years now having major issues with the disc above and some issues with the l5 S1.Thats the two they already fused

[@KBradAdams]

@@johnmitchell8925 I had a discectomy in 2017, on the L4/L5, couple of years later it ruptured again. They fused L4/L5 or tried too. I am still in pain when I do anything other than sit on my azz or sleep. I thought from day 1 my L5/S1 was an issue but they never addressed it. I guess my options are get L4/L5 revision surgery and hope it fuses and takes care of it, or do L4/L5 revision and Fuse L5/S1. Just don't want to be looking at more surgeries down the road. I hear some say they get adjacent segment disease like you mentioned but hear others say they never have any issues. And lets don't even get into finding the right surgeon to do it. That has been a huge head ache.

[@FromTheHood2TheWoods]

@@johnmitchell8925 damn. Why don’t they offer artificial disk instead? This sucks. But im sick of leg pain and back pain. Gonna ask about Artificial disc instead

[@carnivore-muscle]

I've made a video on my channel specifically about that. Hope it helps!

[@nunyurbyznes7611]

Thank you, mulltiple fusions watcher!

[@andi1968heygurlhey]

I know this video is 2 years old but I'm 6 weeks post surgery and your tips are helpful. Ie plastic bag. Thanks!

[@maryanntoroc3552]

Hi andi! Hows yours? Pain wise?

[@andi1968heygurlhey]

@@maryanntoroc3552 I am great. Shout out to Dr. John Hamilton Fairfax VA. I have dull post surgical healing but nothing like the sciatic nerve torture I experienced pre surgery.

[@kaileycox2915]

I had spinal fusion a few years ago and I can confirm that all of these are amazing tips! I wish I had this video to watch before I got it!

[@KBradAdams]

Any updates on your Fusion? Kailey? Thanks.

[@FromTheHood2TheWoods]

Do you regret it?

[@KBradAdams]

@@FromTheHood2TheWoods The only thing I can say is there was no other option for me other than having another discectomy but I felt like I would have re ruptured that one again like Tiger Woods did his second discectomy. Before the surgery I could not walk more than 4 or 5 steps, was in constant pain and could not sleep. I don't mean pain like oh my back hurts. I mean like the worst sciatic pain you can imagine, similar to torture. I have had bad injuries torn both ACL's broken arms things like that and this was so bad. In Tears pain, suicidal where you are in a 10 pain level 24 seven, then when its a little better its a 8 but you only sleep because you have been up 3 days straight from exhaustion. Falling asleep in a bathtub full of ice because the numbness was the only thing that would stop the pain a little. When I awoke from surgery that sciatic pain was 100% gone. I went home that day, I could walk stand sleep, off all pain meds the next day, the pain level was about a 1 from surgery. My body was weak but honestly if I had to do it over again I would have done it but the only difference is I might have talked to a few more surgeons, maybe even considered disc replacement or maybe had them go in from the front to guarantee a solid fusion or higher rate of fusion. I guess if I do get the revision I could end up in more pain or the same and that would suck if I have it, wait another year and end up exactly like I am now, But I guess better than ending up in more pain would suck even worse. Right now I can work sleep live but not like I would like too.. So that is the big question. Am I confident in the surgeon I choose.

[@FromTheHood2TheWoods]

@@KBradAdams thank you so much bro. Very helpful to hear others stories!! I been in horrible pain for 10 years, but only if I am bending down or lifting stuff. 10 years ago they said I had a herniated disc but I was scared of surgery so I just tried not to do too much hard work, but the past three years been remodeling this house carrying bags of concrete and basically doing everything myself, it hurts so bad now, if I drive for more than 10 minutes my legs hurt so damn bad, I never knew that back issues cause leg pain, the recent MRI showed mine is basically bone on bone at L5 S1. Been going to appointment after appointment, today the neurosurgeon at Shands Hospital finally told me that I would be getting the surgery mid September, I thought it was just fusion and Alif, where they go in from the front. But she said they are going to go in from the front and flip me over and secure it from the back also so it fuses together. That’s crazy you were in that much pain and then the pain was gone thank God, I can’t imagine how people lived back in the days without this technology, I just want it hurry up and fixed before some stupid virus comes and shuts everything down again, or before Putin starts nuclear war, LOL I want this fixed while it’s possible. Man I was invisible most my life but now at 41 I see that’s not the case anymore. I mowed the lawn other day and now my upper back hurts, hope it’s just muscles sore and not an upper disk. I’m so careful now, I don’t want to get hurt, I don’t wrestle with my son or play basketball or anything risky anymore. I used to ride motorcycles but I’m not even taking that chance. Can’t imagine another crazy injury. 2 years ago got caught in a little explosion had to get skin grafts from the fire. Man that was 6 months of hell. So yea we have to be mindful. But still find things to do so we can enjoy the rest of our lives. Take it easy

[@KBradAdams]

@@FromTheHood2TheWoods Wow yours sounds a lot like mine and how it started. Does your back ever go out? That is how mine started about once a year then about every four months.. that feeling where you feel sick to your stomach and can't even walk for a week then you feel ok... over do it then 3 months later bam it goes out again. Then one day it goes from being pretty bad to bed ridden and miserable and constant. The discectomy helped me but sounds like your disc is gone so fusion might be the only way. One thing I might suggest is call this Dr. kzbin.info and have him read your MRI and Xray or whatever you have. He gave me the best reading of anyone and actually did a surgery on one of the doctors from the show the doctors. Good luck and keep me posted.

[@camden1977]

Hi Jennae, how is your progress going? You haven’t posted in 4 months. Hoping your recovery is going well. Dave.

[@nicolaaustralia1]

Thank you 🙏💜🥹

[@navil2137]

thank you for sharing j, how are you today after two years? hope you be fine :)

[@MountainAirOrganicBeds]

Thank you for the tips. I am going to have a Alift in January as well. It’s encouraging to see you doing so well. I would like to know if they stitched you up or used glue to close? I don’t like glue closures. I like the neck pillow and water bottle tip the most. All your tips are helpful.

[@KBradAdams]

Did you have the alif if so please let us know how you are now. Thanks

[@MountainAirOrganicBeds]

@@KBradAdams I cant believe it worked so well. The sciatica pain is gone, the disk protrusion and pinched nerves in my L5-S1 are gone. I was getting numbness and pain in my tail bone, thats all gone. The only thing left the surgery didn’t cure is the neuropathy in my feet. I just got a spinal cord stimulator to block the pain signals from going to my brain. Its working like a charm. I know I could walk all day, and feel the stress on my feet when i got home, so still prefer to take it easy at the stores and ride the cart when i can, I just don’t want to do anymore damage to those nerves in my feet. They have yet to adjust my strength all the way up, they wanted me to wait a while after surgery. I think the nurse will do it telemedicine this weekend. When i get all healed up, I am going into physical therapy. Over time i expect to become stronger. I lost a lot of muscle laying in bed. It was a A-Lift then they flipped me over on my tummy and put the plate in with the screws, that is called a fusion and PLift. I would not be afraid of getting it fixed. It was worth it to me.

[@KBradAdams]

@@MountainAirOrganicBeds so assume to hear!!!

[@varuninnz]

Hey mate I'm considering ALIF. I have been reseraching for over 2 years now. This is a great video!! Can I please ask what type of cage was used ie PEEK or Metal. Do you know the name of your cage? How are you feeling now?

[@phildavis1825]

Hey, what was your recovery time post surgery, im talking before you could exercise etc? Thanks

[@xaviermusic6696]

Hi Jannea you should do a one year post op video!

[@stephaniegarsow6220]

My husband just had this surgery a week ago. Front back and both sides. He said hes never had pain as bad as this. Its horrible and regrets getting it. He said he knew it would be painful but he had known it would be this bad he never would have gotten it. He also had complications and lost 3 liters of blood. Anyone considering this surgery please do your research and even get 2nd or 3rd opinions before making a decision..

[@TheKlisenby1]

I am having a S1/L5 fusion surgery on June 1st. There are using screws, rods and mesh. I am a little worried because I am overweight and 57. I didn’t think that they would make any incisions through the front as well?

[@blakemcools7581]

I'm waiting for back surgery doing doing 2 ops in 1 with screws I live alone and I'm scared I'm only 51yrs also had neck done 3yrs ago before covid.

[@annannmare157]

I'm expecting to have surgery for degenerative 3 disks (T2-T5) with bulging & stenosis & grade 1 spondylolisthesis. Can I use steps? My house has bathroom on lower & upper floors, none on main level where I thought I would recuperate recuperate on for awhile at least initially, just wondering how to handle that 😫 😬😲

[@Ironstarfish]

Wish she would post an update, some are nightmares and some are "successful". These progression videos are scary and slmost always start off positive at 6months and 18months then you fast forward 4yyears and pain is back.

[@BrittanyJones-sp7bw]

What does the back brace look like and how long do you have to wear it

[@bird877]

Hey I just wanna check in and see how the recovery is going?

[@floydsfabulousfriends7734]

How do you put on a shirt! Can you put on a t shirt or do you have to always wear button up clothing?

[@samippudke]

Did you have slipped disc with pars fracture? That's why u did fusion,?

[@KBradAdams]

Any plans to do any updates now?

[@jflexfit]

how are you now?

[@montana3227]

Thank I have mine aug 11

[@annannmare157]

Hope went well, let us know :)👍

[@lrb3989]

You seem so sweet thanks for the info

[@jackiewilliams5860]

I was told not to use heat only a cold compress

[@AlexJenkinsTTA]

How are you feeling now?

[@garyjohn316]

Its been 5 weeks now after L4 L5 spinal fusion, does the pain ever go away?