I began experiencing severe pain in 2018, radiating from my lower back down my right leg all the way to my toe. The pain was so intense I often couldn’t sleep, sit at the table for dinner, clean my house, or even spend time out with my family and friends. Getting in and out of a car would send my pain, already a constant 9 out of 10, completely out of control. None of the medications I was prescribed could help, and I started to feel depressed about losing my independence and quality of life.
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I tried physical therapy for two years without any improvement—if anything, my pain worsened. Dr. Carlson at OSC then recommended a series of treatments, including several spinal injections and nerve ablation procedures. While the nerve ablation lowered my pain for a short time, nothing provided lasting relief. Standing, sitting, and even just lying in bed became unbearable, and I started to lose hope.
After exhausting every other option, Dr. Carlson explained that surgery was the next step. I was terrified at the thought of such a major operation. But after countless difficult nights and seeing no other path forward, I decided it was time.
On the day of my double lumbar fusion—July 28, 2025—I was anxious, but OSC’s team was incredibly supportive and made me feel at ease. Dr. Carlson checked on me before surgery and even made sure my favorite song, “La Bamba,” played as I went under anesthesia to help relax me. After surgery, the physical therapy staff made sure I could move safely and that I had the support and equipment I needed at home. My husband and I had prepared with a walker and back brace, but those first few days were still a big challenge. My pain was high, but I quickly learned that the more I moved, the better I felt.
By day three, I was walking without a walker. Progress accelerated as I kept moving, walking inside and outside daily. Medication didn’t work well for me, but with determination and the support of OSC’s therapists, my pain steadily dropped from a 9 to about a 4—and eventually much lower as I healed.
Now, 11 weeks since surgery, I’m still recovering with physical therapy, but my life has changed dramatically. I can sleep ten hours without waking in agony, walk six to eight miles at a time, return to the gym, and even plan travel I never thought possible again. Long car rides are comfortable for me, and I no longer live in fear that pain will ruin my day. While I’m still careful and mindful about my recovery, my pain is at a 1 on most days and is easily managed with stretching and movement.
For anyone considering lumbar spine surgery, know that the fear is normal and the first few weeks are hard. But if, like me, you’ve tried everything else, don’t give up hope. Dr. Carlson truly listens and is committed to finding a real solution. He assured me I wouldn’t end up in a wheelchair, and his encouragement meant everything when I felt my lowest. The OSC team, especially the therapy staff, supported me through every phase, making sure I could do the things I once doubted I’d ever do again. You don’t need to live in pain—there is a path forward with the right care and support.