William
Procedures: Artificial Disc Replacement & Spinal Fusion
What was your initial medical issue?
The symptom I first encountered was a sharp pain beginning from my lower back, going through the right leg, and into my foot. I self-diagnosed the condition as Sciatica. This pain began in October 2013.
What did this issue prevent you doing?
I would not say the pain prevented me from doing everyday activities but it sure made it uncomfortable. I was restricted to only sleeping on my back and only for about 2-3 hours at a time. I could only sit for short periods of time which included keeping car rides to a minimum distance. The only relief from the pain was to stand.
What made you decide to do something about your problem?
After 2 months of the discomfort, I felt I needed to seek medical attention. I was doing daily sciatic exercises but the pain seemed to deepen instead of any type of relief. I received two injections (Dec 2013 & Jan 2014) into the spine that did not give any form of pain relief.
Why did you choose Dr. Sinicropi?
I was directed to Midwest Spine & Brain by my primary care physician. Fortunately, one of the physical therapists at Midwest Spine & Brain Institute recommended Dr Sinicropi for surgery. The surgery occurred on February 24, 2014.
What treatment/procedure did you have done?
I had an artificial disk put in-between the L4-L5 and another inserted between the L5-S1. I also had a double spinal fusion with 5 pins inserted in my spine.
How did you feel after treatment?
Immediately following the surgery, I was pain free from my lower back through my entire leg.
What advice would you give other patients in a similar situation to you?
If patients have time to prepare for the type of surgery I had, I would tell them to strengthen their “core” muscles. I truly believe my quick recovery is entirely based on the fact that I was prepared for this type of surgery. It is imperative to have strong core muscles needed to support the back for the first couple weeks following surgery. By doing so, one is able to get out of bed and chairs more frequently. Thus, decreasing the recovery time.
I would recommend Dr Sinicropi to anyone who needs to undergo this type of surgery. Because of the tremendous job Dr Sinicropi and his team performed, I was:
- Back at work after 1 week
- Walking on the treadmill after 3 weeks
- Running after 7 weeks
- And after 10 weeks, I am lifting free weights and playing basketball. Golfing will soon follow.
As of today, I am doing 99% of the things I was able to do pre-surgery.
