45 hrs post op

I underwent the surgery between 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm on 9th July 2026. The next morning (10th July) around 9 am I was already able to walk around the ICU without support. Today (11th July) I have been able to go to the bathroom independently and walk, sit, low down, change positions without support.

My symptoms includes:

- numbness on left leg, behind thighs, backside of calf (occasionally), backside of ankle, heel, left side of the foot and pinky toe. Not total numbness, partial. Sometimes numbness on the back of right thigh as well.
- ⁠numbness on left inner thigh near the groin
- ⁠occasional issues with urinating (even when I need to go I have to force it out)
- ⁠unable to sit due to excruciating pain at pack of the thigh
- ⁠limping because left foot isn’t able to carry weight
- ⁠can stand and walk but excess causes back pain and worsened thigh pain
- ⁠when pain is bad, even taking a deep breath in, coughing or sneezing hurts the thigh
- ⁠bending down even a little bit hurts the thigh
- ⁠only able to lie down straight on the back or tummy, can’t lie on the side for long even with pillows to help
- there’s numbness near genitals too

The docs identified cauda equina syndrome in addition to the pain, numbness, and weakness.

Currently the leg pain is gone, numbness and weakness remains, and I’m able to control my bladder and motions quite easily. Am moving with considerable strain and pain.

I have been recommended 2 months of bed rest with minimal walking and physio therapy limited to the ankles.

Is it looking good for me, recovery wise? I’ve been advised to lose weight and quit smoking. Any pointers anyone would like to share?

I’ll surely share an update perhaps in a month or so.