Why I Regret My First Spinal Fusion (Even Though It Helped)
- Michael Dilworth
- Jul 20
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 26
I’ve had two spinal fusion surgeries. And I regret the first one.
Not because it didn’t help—it did. I got relief. But that relief came with long-term consequences I didn’t fully understand at the time.
My First Fusion: Relief with a Catch
Before my first fusion, I was in pain—but I was still functioning. I could walk, I could work, I could live. The surgery gave me short-term relief, but over time, it created a bigger problem: Adjacent Segment Disease (ASD)—a condition where the discs above or below the fused area break down faster due to added stress.
That’s exactly what happened to me. And that meant one thing: I needed a second fusion.
My Second Fusion: A Wake-Up Call
The second surgery was far worse.
More pain.
More complications.
I was fully disabled for a time.
And that experience changed how I see everything.
Looking back, I now believe I could have avoided the first fusion altogether if I had better guidance. If I had explored every conservative option first—physical therapy, posture work, strength training, anti-inflammatory nutrition, sleep, hydration, everything. But I didn’t know what I didn’t know.
The Problem with Our Medical System
Here’s the hard truth: I trusted my surgeon to make the right decision for me. But now I understand something important— Asking a surgeon if you need surgery is like asking a barber if you need a haircut.
That’s not an attack on surgeons. Many of them are incredible professionals. But the system is overwhelmed. And far too many people want the easy way out:
A pill.
A shot.
Or a surgery.
All instead of the real work it takes to create lasting change.
What Really Works: Lifestyle Change
If you want to avoid surgery—or avoid needing another one—you have to take ownership of your health.
That means:
✅ Moving daily (even when it’s uncomfortable)
✅ Eating foods that fight inflammation
✅ Quitting smoking and reducing alcohol
✅ Sleeping well and managing stress
✅ Correcting posture and strengthening your spine
These are the things I wish I had focused on before my first surgery.
Making My Last Fusion My Final One
Now I’m doing things differently. I’ve built a system that supports spinal health from the ground up—through habit change, corrective exercise, and lifestyle strategies that truly work.
And I help others do the same.
If you’re facing spinal fusion—or recovering from one—you need real education from someone who’s been through it.
Download My Free Spinal Fusion Guide
I created a free guide for people just like you— Whether you're trying to avoid surgery, preparing for it, or recovering after.
Inside, you’ll learn:
The truth about spinal fusion outcomes
How to reduce your risk of Adjacent Segment Disease
Practical steps to support recovery
How to reclaim your mobility, strength, and confidence
You only get one spine. Before you commit to life-changing surgery—or if you're already on the other side of it—make sure you're making fully informed, empowered choices.
I’m not anti-surgery. I’m anti-rushing into it.
Let’s make your last fusion your final one.
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