Thinking about getting my rods out...

[jgrant27]

I'm 6.5 yrs post injury, and I have rods in my thoracic area & a lumbar fusion (L1 level injury). I am going to have some time off from work later this summer, and I'm thinking about getting my rods out. My back is always so stiff & sore, and the fact that I can't bend (except for my upper back) is really hard on me. The two vertebrae above the rods are always sore & popping "out" because of the tension. Has anyone else who has both kinds of hardware had their rods out?

[AngelaandKC]

Great question!
I am also thinking the same. If you get any responses let me know. I talked to my Ortho/SCI docs at Harborview and they are pretty firm against it unless there is some really pressing reason.
Oh like the fact I WILL get arthritis at the top and bottom segments of the rod is not good enough? The popping is driving me nuts? My back is killing me?
Geez, sometimes I don't understand http://sci.rutgers.edu/forum/images/smilies/frown.gif

Anyhow Julie. Did you ever switch to Doc Goldstein at Harborview? He is so great!

AngelaandKC