Aaaaargh, broken back!

[NbyNW]

Hi Jessmarimba, I had an S1-S2 fracture years ago -- much lower than what you're dealing with, and as I understand it, a much more stable area to have a break, if there's any such thing.

Some things that helped me:

• My sister got me a table like this one, so I could eat/work in bed.
  
• I had a light stuffsack with shoulder straps from REI, which I used to carry small lightweight things around, since my hands were not free, using a walker to get around the house. I don't know if they make it anymore, but you might already have something that will work.
  
• I never figured out a good way to carry a cup of coffee from countertop to table, while using my rocker. I ended up putting my coffee on a chair and sliding the chair beside/in front of me to get it to the table.
  
• Staying mentally busy. I had papers to write, so I was able to stay occupied. I also ordered some language tapes and taught myself Italian.
  
• Do everything your Drs. and PTs tell you. If they tell you to rest, rest. If they tell you to do some boring, tedious, painful exercise, do it. And do it with the frequency prescribed. Be honest with them about any progress or setbacks that you experience. Listen to your body and don't try to rush your recovery.
  
• When you're ready for crutches, these are really great.
  
• Talk to someone about when and how to taper your pain killers. Strangely, no one talked to me about this in the hospital, perhaps because they assumed my dad the surgeon would. Except he's so wary of pain killer addiction he didn't want me to take them at all. I ended up getting good advice from a friend who has been through multiple surgeries.

[jessmarimba]

Wow guys, so much advice so fast! I am actually pretty lucky with a lot here - I am able to walk and get around on my own as long as I'm wearing a brace. No walker or anything necessary. So thankfully I can still carry my coffee . I'm also allowed (encouraged) to sit up as much as I can. Only thing I can't do yet is drive. We're just trying to think of other little things that will make my life easier and your input there has been great!