OH dear!

I'm sorry to hear this, and can COMPLETELY empathize. I broke my back four and a half years ago in a horrific motorcycle accident. I spent 7 weeks in the hospital. My T9 was split into four pieces, and parts of T10 were broken off. I have six inches of titanium on each side of my spine.

The PT was agony, and I must admit I was a difficult patient. They gave me a walker to use, and I vehemently refused it. I argued that I wouldn't heal up my atrophied muscles if I never used them. They gave me grabbers so I wouldn't have to bend over, or struggle to put pants and socks on. I gave them the same argument. I did listen to what my Dr.'s had to say, as well as my PT's.

I stay active now, because if I quit moving, I will not move again. It's ironic, but very true. I live with chronic nerve pain, numbness and muscle spasms now, and will for the rest of my life, I have to take pain meds just to get out of bed; but, hey! I'm living my life. I'm training for the Seattle to Portland now for the next year. I don't let anything get in my way.

A broken back is really a pain the the neck, or rear, depending on if your glass is half empty or full. But, it's something you CAN recover from, and go on to live a healthy, active lifestyle. I never make excuses. I only have one life...

Best of luck, friend. It appears you have tons of support here.