San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino – Puerto Rico
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After 2 years, I have a much better handle on the Artificial Disc Replacement experience and can’t wait to share this update. I’ve tried so hard throughout documenting my progress to stay upbeat and positive, but also keep it realistic. I’ve heard from so many people around the country (and other countries) that are struggling with back pain who found hope through my experience. That truly puts me at a loss for words…but also helps me see the importance of staying realistic as to not offer anyone false hope. Bottom line: I recovered well, but it is not an easy recovery!
How I’ve Recovered
From the moment I woke up from the anesthesia, I’ve felt 100 times better than before my surgery. However, getting back to my workouts has been a different story. I knew that part would be tough so I was prepared, but it was still a struggle! It felt like I was re-learning how to exercise. The way my body moved felt different, not in a bad way… just a more stable way, so it was definitely tough to navigate and test my limits.
Throughout the first year I progressed from the recumbent bike, to Pilates, to running, to CrossFit. I felt confident with my new disc by my year mark and spent the second year figuring out how to stay pain free for the long term as well as manage my weight with proper nutrition and workouts (which I’m still doing!). The Whoop was a game changer in that area!
CrossFit is definitely one of the most effective types of fitness modalities out there, but if I’m honest, it’s mentally exhausting to have to modify every single movement. I like being different, but it’s also disheartening. I also found it was tough to find the effort to push myself because most of my energy went to worrying whether my back would hurt later. I mention this to keep it real. I am not able to workout like I once was, and I don’t want to give others that false hope. My quality of life has improved, I no longer suffer with intense chronic back pain, and I workout daily! My workouts aren’t like they once were, but I can move my body well and I feel confident enough to try and learn how to surf! I’m also able to work all day and walk around the mall afterward if I please. I even went to Wet n Wild with my family after working a full day, something I wouldn’t have been able to do before I had my artificial disc.
What I’ve Learned
There is definitely not a one size fits all with back pain and solutions.
I won’t ever be completely free, this is something I will manage for the rest of my life.
Listening to your body and gut is your best guide.
I can do CrossFit, but should I?
What I Wish I Had Known
My mindset going into surgery was “it can’t get any worse.” Based on all the information from my surgeon, I felt confident but knew there were no guarantees of a positive outcome. It was tough walking into the unknown and I wish didn’t have to deal with the fear. I’m proud of my courage, but it wasn’t easy. I think that’s part of what is helping me conquer my fear of the ocean. I’ve been a fan of surfing and have wanted to learn since I was in college, but fear always held me back! There are a lot of unknowns in life, we can either risk or stay safe. Here’s to more risk!
My First Wave!
Aviones, Pinones, Puerto Rico
Spectrum Surf School
My biggest question from this whole experience… why does pain like this exist?! Not only because it hurts, but because it also lessens quality of life and the body’s ability to perform daily tasks. If helping others is the answer to that question, it is worth it. I can’t forget how hard it was for me to find my solutions, and how much time and effort I put in to get better… I don’t want others to have to suffer like I did. Sometimes we can’t avoid the suffering, but if I can provide realistic hope I am happy to have endured the pain!
Thank you for following along, reading, sharing, and lifting me up with your stories of hope and faith! I look forward to sharing more and hearing more from you too!
Previous Posts: Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 6 | Part 7 | Part 8 | Part 9
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Awesome work. Such an inspiration
Thanks Justin! Looking forward to following your journey from artificial disc removal to fusion. There’s no one size fits all solution.