re surgery
I think that it's best you set yourself up not to have to do anything for at least 6-8 weeks and to also expect to take at least that much time off from work if not maybe 12 weeks. Usually with jobs though I think we have our surgeons write for 6-8 weeks and then take more time in terms of extension of leave.
I have not had a fusion but have had 2 discectomies and the first one was a big open one so I was off for 8 weeks and then my surgeon asked for another month of leave for me so at 3 months I returned to work part time (RN/Nurse Practitioner). I was not able to see patients at the 3 month point so I was doing mostly administrative work (paperwork) and then gradually started seeing patients again. By 6 months I was back to work full time.
My 2nd discectomy did not go that well (it failed) so while I returned to work it was never full time after that.
Basically recoveries can be all over the place and that's why I think it's best to try to have yourself all set up so someone is doing everything for you for as long as you can have that re housework etc. and also try to get the most leave you can without jeopardizing your job.
Often surgeons give the time off that a very good surgery without any complications will take and sometimes it's way too short so I really try to get at least the 6-8 weeks. You'll most likely need all of that or should have it without pushing yourself or your body too much.
At least this is my advice but I've not had the degree of surgery you have (with fusion and ADR) so hopefully those that have had this surgery or similar can chime in and give you a better time frame for recovery perhaps!!
Please keep us posted on your surgery and recovery and meanwhile wishing you all the best with the surgery and your recovery! Maria
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