Return to work

C

Chips

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I had a two level spinal fusion two months ago. I am still sore but it would seem to have been a success (awaiting X rays/MRI). I am a high school teacher.

I am worried about going back to work too early and really want to be right before I return after 15 years of pain.

Would it be unreasonable to stay off for 3-4 months. I am worried about being bumped in corridors and in class.
 
I had a three level fusion done and my doctor told me that I could go back to work in three to five weeks. IF you are feeling Ok and your doctor gives you the go ahead, try it. You won't know if you are ready for work until you go back. The actual fear is worse than the task. Take it easy, move slowly and ask for help if you need it. Remeraber your BLT. If you have a brace, you may ask your doctor about wearing that for protection...
 
If you're able to stay out of work for a while longer, your body would appreciate the opportunity to rest and heal some more. But if you really feel up to it, go for it. My hubby is a high school teacher too. You can probably enlist various students to help you with carrying things or whatever you need. There are always students who are eager to please. Take advantage of it! :D

Also, be sure to take all your "stuff" like your grabber, heating pad and/or ice pack, meRAB, and whatever else is helpful to you through your day. Is there a cot in the nurse's office that you could lie down on if you need to? Would you be able to go back part time for a week or two to start with?

There are people here who have had to go back to work after only a week or two and did okay. They were tired by the end of the day, and when they went home they went right to bed, but they were able to do what they had to do.

I hope it goes well for you. It's a big surgery to recover from, but so worth it!

Emily
 
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