Im 3 months post op from l4-s1. I was told I would have to stop taking NSAID's for a year. The doc said NSAID's is not good for healing. Yesterday, I saw a different doc and he said after 3 months it is ok. What gives?
I had a fusion in April and my dr said originally 6 months but maybe earlier if I fuse faster. I am using Ultracet for pain management and it is working for me. I would wait and let your body have the best chance of complete fusion.
I was also told 6 months. I did have one bad incident with knee swelling and took a few advil. Next time I saw my spine doctor he said that was fine for urgent situations but 6 months at the minimum. Then when I get to 6 months he'll evaluate the fusion and let me know if I have to continue avoiding them.
I also have a Bone Growth Stimulator that I've been wearing since post op week 3. I have had to take a small break from it as the unit had to be replaced but I'm back to wearing it 24/7 through month 6 at least.
