re: Has anyone on here had a fusion in your spine? Updated Pg 2

I had my L3,4,5 fused at the same time due to deteriorating disc disease. Had the XLIF procedure done in January of 2018. First of all, I’m 60 and not 40. My recovery took roughly a year with PT. I no longer have thigh numbness and I can do lots of things but have limitations. I am on disability now because my company only allows me back if I’m 100% healthy. I will never be able to do what I once did especially when it comes to lifting heavy things and I don’t lift things off the ground if I can avoid it. I do still have back pain but not to the extent I had. I was always looking for a bench on vacations and could not walk across the mall without taking 2 breaks. I have arthritis and stenosis as well. I always say that I have a new normal. I work out daily including walking 3 miles, swim 80 laps and work out using low weights but high reps. I’m glad I had it done. My flexibility is limited as expected. Hope this answers some questions. I’ll try to monitor this post to see if any more info I can contribute from my personal experience.