My back problems developed and worsened over time until I finally couldn't work any more starting in 2002. I have Spinal Spondylosis and severe Degenerative Arthritis in my Lumbar, Thoracic and Cervical spine. The pain became so intense that it even interfered with walking. Because of everything I've gone through and my lack of exercise, I have piled on at least 150 lbs. since then. My questions are; (1) Will I still be able to take my narcotic pain killers if I have surgery? (2) I will be very limited in the amount and type of exercise I will be capable of performing. Can I still achieve successful weight loss? Thank You.

My back problems developed and worsened over time until I finally couldn't work any more starting in 2002. I have Spinal Spondylosis and severe Degenerative Arthritis in my Lumbar, Thoracic and Cervical spine. The pain became so intense that it even interfered with walking. Because of everything I've gone through and my lack of exercise, I have piled on at least 150 lbs. since then. My questions are; (1) Will I still be able to take my narcotic pain killers if I have surgery? (2) I will be very limited in the amount and type of exercise I will be capable of performing. Can I still achieve successful weight loss? Thank You.

You are going to have to ask your doctor about your pain meds - I was given liqiud vicoden after surgery - so I guess it will depend on what kind of meds you take and the size of the pills - talk to your surgeon.

Then band doe not limit type of exercise that you can do - execpt you can't do crunch right after surgery - but once you heal and your doc gives the go ahead - you can exercise

Good luck on your journey

You should be able to take narcotic pain relievers, it's NSAIDS that some doctors want you to avoid. Double check with your surgeon--they might switch you to a liquid form.

As to exercise...you will lose with the band and proper diet without exercise...just slower. However, is there any way you can get *some* exercise or physical therapy--especially in the Water. People with back problems tend to do better in the water than any other type of exercise. And you may very well be able to get insurance to cover some PT sessions.

Thanks for responding so fast. I appreciate the advice.