Question
QUESTION: I had a back fusion at L5S1 and Laminectomy on April 11, 2007.  I felt ok the first 2 weeks but then I started having problems with my lower back.  It feels like a huge hard ball inside my spine where the scar is.  You can't see it on the outside and the x-rays look ok.  What could it be?  I cannot sit or stand.  All I can do is lay down to relieve pain.  This pain is worse than right after the surgery.  Is this normal recovery as my surgeon says it is?

ANSWER: Misty, unfortunately it is quit normal for 80% of low back surgeries to fail. The swelling is inflammation that eventually forms a ball of scar tissue. Ice it down 3x/day for 15 minutes and see a D.C. for ultrasound treatments to minimize the scar tissue proliferation. It's unlikely you needed the surgery to begin with since 90% of them are necessary. Most can be decompressed with flexion/distraction. Since you are too late for that, I would recommend seeing a D.C. and get those treatments since after care for lumbar surgery is pathetic. Also, take 3 grams/day of glucosamine sulfate with MSM to prevent further disc problems and osteoarthritis.

Before getting surgery, exhaust all other options. I don't mean PT or epidurals, that rarely helps, often it makes you worse. Get non-invasive spinal decompression or F/D. This works 90% of the time. You have to find the right D.C. that is equiped to handle these cases but the good news is that most do.

Good Luck,
Hope this helps..
Dr.Timothy Durnin

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Should I ask my surgeon for an MRI?  I am going to call him tomorrow and ask for one.  Will this show more than an x-ray?  

Answer
In the above answer I meant to say 90% are unnecessary, not necessary. Sorry '

Going to the same person that did your surgery won't reveal any mistakes, get a second opinion from another surgeon that is not associated with the original. This accomplishes two things, you will get an unbiased opinion and there will not be a conflict of interest. Also, your Chiropractor can order an MRI if he deems it necessary, having one post-op is always a good idea to see how it's healing, also he won't be quick to put you under the knife and will explore more rational treatments. To answer your question, I would get an MRI from whomever, but make sure an objective eye is looking over the interpretation.

If you have any follow up questions after the test or visit, I will be happy to further clarify any questions you might have.

Hope it turns out O.K.,
Dr. Timothy Durnin
drs.chiroweb.com