5 Weeks Post-surgery: Return to work

Today was my second day back at work. It went well, physically. I did get kind of sore after sitting for a period of time, but getting up and walking helped ease it. My biggest issue right now is bursitis in my right hip/leg. It developed because my hips are out of whack due to the way my body contorted from the sciatic pain. My surgeon released me last Friday to begin working with my chiropractor and she is helping to correct my hips. Yesterday I was so sore by 6:30, I knew I just needed to get home and ice my hip. It probably didn't help walking first thing in the morning and then all the moving around I did at work- I didn't ease back in, I jumped in. I am now on Daypro and it has helped alot! I still get a little achy but its much more bearable. It seems to be working to bring down the swelling, which is decreasing the pain.

There was no working back into the job. My boss made it clear that I was not to come back until I could be released for full duty. I am an administrative assistant, so my doctor agreed with releasing me with the only condition that I not lift anything over 25 pounds (which is in my job description). Mentally I was ready to return 2 weeks ago, but I'm glad I didn't push the issue earlier and waiting until this week. I feel that moving around at work is actually helping my back feel better overall.

I will not be able to return to working out for about another month. My surgeon said he wants me to wait until the epidermis has grown back over the incision site. Getting sweaty apparently will inhibit that.

Overall, I am happy with my progress and thankful for an awesome surgeon. I have been sciatic pain-free ever since the day of my surgery. During my pain/recovery, I have kept speaking "this is temporary". I have truly believed it and my faith mixed with following Dr's orders has me healing well. I truly thank God! I would not have made it through this without Him! :)