Back pain

 Hey guys.  I had my surgery about a week and a half ago and lately I've been experiencing some back pain, enough to start taking my pain meds, again.  Its mid back on the left side.  I asked the doc about this and they said its because I'm using my back muscles more, which makes sense to me.  Did any of you deal with back pain post surgery?

Most doctors would say rest the area.  Since you are so new post op you can't really do any strenuous exercises yet (lift over 20 pounds)...+ limited walking...There is not much you can do.  The problem is hydrocodone, which most doctors will give you, can make you constipated.  If it becomes real bad over the weeks you may need to see your PCP for some Tramadol...Most useful pain med available for RNYers...It's a narcotic so be very careful with it.  Once the pain goes away just keep walking for the first few weeks...allow the healing process to continue.  Later when you are released to do different exercises you may want to work on strengthing your stomach muscles...things like crunchers.  While strengthening your stomach muscles you will be strengthing your back muscles.  If it gets really bad you may need to see a physical therapist.  Brian

 Thanks, Brian. I went in this morning,because my whole upper back hurt, badly and every time I took a deep breath i felt a sharp pain on my left side.  Doc did a ct scan( think that's what its called) said i have no blood clots (thank god), but i do have a little fluid in my lungs.  He gave me some antibiotics and some better pain meds (oxycodone).  I feel so much better, now.

I had pretty decent back pain early out. Right between the shoulder blades and it felt like a knife stuck there. I attributed it to my posture and gait adjusting to the weight loss. It still bothers me sometimes but weight training and quality footwear has helped.

Tim T.