I am definitely getting stronger in PT, and my c-section pain is virtually non-existent at this point. However, regardless of my strengthening, my glute and hip pain on my fused side is getting no long-term relief. I feel much better immediately after my exercises, but then I have to drive or shop and the pain returns. I am still taking lots of motrin (day) and alleve (night), along with Percocet for break-through pain once or twice a week. After I finish my PT referral this month, I am going to ask for some new imaging if the pain is still consistent. It's been 2 years since xrays and 3 since an MRI. I'm sure I could go to pain management and get botox in my piriformis and maybe get something for my hip, but I don't want to do botox every three months for the rest of my life. I want to get better. I realize that may never be in the cards for me, but I want it anyway. Not quite willing to accept defeat yet. After all, I pushed and pushed until I got through with the SI pain, and now the residual, related imbalances are the only pains I have left. Yes, they can be debilitating too, but not as much or as often as the SI pain, which was intensely crippling full time. I'll update again once I get imaging complete.
However, I can now say I believe that the pregnancy did not make the problem better or worse, which I am happy to live with. I have new hip issues, but my PT thinks that's just life and aging, rather than either my fusion or my pregnancy.
Wow.. thank you for documenting your experience. Your blogs have been an invaluable source of information for us women who are at the crossroads of having a child and are at the same place you once were. I am sure that I speak for others when I say I truly truly appreciate it and look up to you for inspiration.
ReplyDeleteKeep on fightin!
Beca
Thanks Beca! That's exactly what I was hoping for when I decided to document this. I hope it helps to know yes it's been done - pregnancy after iFuse. You just have to stay in constant contact with good healthcare professionals, and know how much your own body can handle. Good luck!
DeleteLiz,
ReplyDeleteI am almost exactly a year behind you - due April 1 - and have had both SI joints fused. Knowing what you know now, what would you recommend to those who follow your footsteps?
Thanks,
Bekkah
Bekkah -- the key is physical therapy with someone who is trained in women's health and/or pelvic stability. And listen to your body. Get rest when you can, strengthen according to your PT's instructions, and use meds if you need to. I used Tylenol and Flexeril -- ask your OB about using those if you need to. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteHi Liz, how are you doing now that some time has passed?
ReplyDelete