Recovering from Spinal Surgery Proves Challenging

Trash grabbers, log rolls, and braces are part of the recovery process for one New Mexico man.

Mar. 11, 2026 at 12:00am

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The author, who recently underwent spinal cord surgery, details the difficulties of recovering and regaining basic mobility and self-care skills, including using a cumbersome brace, dressing with the help of assistive devices, and mastering techniques like the "log roll" to get in and out of bed. Despite the slow progress, the author remains optimistic that the series of surgeries will ultimately lead to less back pain and a full recovery.

Why it matters

This story provides a firsthand account of the arduous rehabilitation process following major spinal surgery, shedding light on the physical and mental challenges patients face as they work to regain their independence and quality of life. It highlights the importance of occupational therapy and the role of supportive family members in the recovery journey.

The details

The author describes the brace they were required to wear after surgery as "cumbersome" and "a bit like a medieval torture device." Getting dressed independently using reaching devices and shoehorns was a struggle, and the author questioned whether these skills would be necessary long-term or if it was easier to rely on their spouse for help. Mastering techniques like the "log roll" to safely get in and out of bed was also part of the recovery process, though the author did have one incident where they had to be assisted by emergency responders.

  • The author underwent spinal cord surgery and was released to go to rehab.
  • A few weeks after the initial surgery, the author is scheduled to have another surgery, followed by an additional recovery period.

The players

Karl Terry

The author of the article, who is recovering from spinal cord surgery.

Author's Occupational Therapist

Worked with the author during their rehabilitation, using a tough love approach to help them regain independence with daily tasks.

Author's Wife

Provides the author with assistance and support during their recovery, though the author acknowledges this can sometimes make them lazy about doing tasks independently.

Local EMTs

Responded and helped the author after they slipped out of bed, which the author describes as an awesome and common occurrence.

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What they’re saying

“To say the brace is cumbersome would be an understatement. In some ways, it's a bit like a medieval torture device.”

— Karl Terry

“My occupational therapist saw getting this thing on as great occupational therapy and he was probably right. He offered little encouragement while I was trying to do it; tough love all the way with that guy, but I'm likely better off because of it.”

— Karl Terry

What’s next

The author is scheduled to have another surgery in a few weeks, followed by an additional recovery period. The restrictions and recovery timeline are uncertain, but the author remains optimistic that the series of surgeries will ultimately lead to less back pain.

The takeaway

This story highlights the arduous rehabilitation process following major spinal surgery, emphasizing the importance of occupational therapy, assistive devices, and the support of loved ones in helping patients regain their independence and quality of life during the long road to recovery.