When planning my hysterectomy, one thing I was looking forward to was a life free of chronic back pain. With my endometriosis, my back and leg pain was almost as debilitating as my cramps and bleeding. Just days after my surgery, I could already feel a big difference. Aside from the pain at the incision, I was feeling better than I had in years. One notable change was the absence of back pain. Oh, happy day.
Imagine my surprise, then, to find my back hurting-- badly-- in my third week post-op. I instantly jumped to conclusions-- my endo wasn't completely removed, my back pain was never related to the endo in the first place, I was still doomed to a life of chronic pain, and on and on.
Luckily, I learned that back pain is perfectly normal in the third and fourth weeks post-hysterectomy. Apparently, the back is having to compensate for the weakened abdominal muscles. The pain should go away in another week or so. In the meantime, I'm finding relief from:
- Ibufrofen
- Heating pad
- Warm bath
- Walking
Don't worry, girls... this, too, shall pass. Just keep thinking of the pain- and period-free days ahead and it'll all be worth it.
There is life after hysterectomy... and it's good. Enjoy!
3 comments:
Back pain is one of the most frequent problems that hysterectomized women report. Among other reasons is the fact that the utero-sacral ligament, which is attached to the uterus and to the sacrum in the lower back, must be severed to remove the uterus during hysterectomy. For a more complete discussion of what women report after hysterectomy, watch the video at http://hersfoundation.org/anatomy/index.html.
Rick Schweikert
hersfdn@verizon.net
Yes, Rick, that is complete, and also a bit negative. Since I've already had a hysterectomy, I'm trying to focus on the positive and on a healthy recovery. I agree that hysterectomy should not be recommended lightly, but, when necessary, it really can be a blessing.
I just had a hysterectomy and one of the things I can't stand is the back pain. Of course it is only been 1 week. I am walking a little around the house but not lifting up anything more than a piece of paper. Any advice for me?
Rhea
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