Originally Posted by CDSmith

Loryn, I had a spinal fusion done when I was 16, for scholiosis. Had a 45 degree "S" curve in my spine, and they fused T8-11 inclusively. 9 months in a body cast afterwards (and 6 months in one prior to surgery).

One of the toughest times of my life, but after it was all said and done it was so worth it. I went on to play more hockey, did 7 years of kickboxing, and basically could do anything I wanted.

Not the same as what you're having done, and of course surgical techniques are way WAYYY more advanced now than they were in '79. I have no doubt your recovery time will be much shorter than mine and you will come away from it being able to live a much better life, with less pain. (hopefully little to none)

I definitely know what it's like to have back pain, and a big surgery like this. I wish you well and hope it goes far better than expected or hoped for, for you.

CD.