Good luck Jim,
The pain being gone is a good indication, but not such a good incentive to not lift anything. As a member of the L5-S1 repair club, I can testify that it takes alot to get you to REMEMBER....Do NOT lift ANYTHING heavier than a gallon of milk. I'd even recommend not lifting anything more than a 12 oz. beer!
Have a friend who I dispensed this advice to, which went unheeded. He had to go in for 2 more surgeries, and then pain management, then two more surgeries to install a electronic nerve stint, with a control implant. Believe me, there is nothing worse than that feeling when you realize you shouldn't have lifted that 15 lbs. of whatever! Wishing you a speedy recovery, and don't pick that up, that's what kids are good for!
later, Tom.
