Exercise after lumbar discectomy

[LadyDoc1]

Hi all, I'm looking for advice post L5/S1 microdiscectomy. I've had 4 operations on this damned disc (from Dec 2019, most recent in March) and followed strict orders to only sit upright for periods of 10 mins at a time for 6 weeks post-op, rest of the time lying down or walking.
I'm 40, previously fit and well, hyper mobile joints but otherwise little to report in medical history.
I'm really struggling to get going again, even doing simple things like showering and washing my hair leave me exhausted. I cooked some meals for the freezer 2 days ago and my low back is aching, like my core is jelly!
I'm building up to 3x10 minute sessions sitting up using orthopaedic cushion, bought a wobble board to try to engage my core muscles again, can anyone recommend exercises or techniques?
I've been doing pelvic tilts and other exercises I found on nhs website, it feels like I'm getting nowhere.
I needed to use a wheelchair when travelling for work since this time last year so I expect my decline has been gradual, is there anyone else around who's come through this?

What were the reasons for your operations was it ces or just constant pain

First operation was for unremitting sciatica, second for post op infection (both December 2019) Then op in Croatia for incomplete cauda equina syndrome in Feb, further op at home in March for sudden onset pain (some debate over CES as urinary symptoms)
It's been wild! Needed a wheelchair for distances since Sept 2019

@LadyDoc1 Hi there. My OH (44) was recently diagnosed with Cauda Equina Syndrome so if you have any questions I can pass them on.
He has had horrendous back issues for many years. Went to see GP and A&E as it was getting so bad he was falling over and in agony. They just said to wait for his MRI scan.
Then suddenly he got complete urine retention. Was rushed off for emergency spinal surgery and had to be catheterised for four weeks.
He's making a very good recovery but is by no means symptom free and unlikely he will ever be.
Take it easy and get in touch if you'd like x

I took 3 years to recover from my spinal surgery - back to work part-time in 3 months and gradually stronger after that (I was 49 and not very fit). Still not pain free sadly but that's often the case with back surgery as I'm sure you realise by now. I do gentle exercises before I get out of bed but I still can't stand for very long but I can walk for a bit and sit for a bit. I have had several good physios over the years but you have to fit your life round it pretty much. But do bear in mind the better recoveries are not going to be in here.

I’m currently 6 months into a herniated disc, can’t sleep, no pain killers take the pain away it’s relentless, I was on a thread a couple of months back on here sorry don’t know how to get it up but so many the same as you a couple almost identical op after op last posted on it about a month ago if you go back through you will find it. I’m terrified this will never end and because of corona had my 6 month consultant appointment cancelled I was going to beg for op feeling desperate can’t sit at all can lay only on stomach for max 2 hours for occasional sleep so spend all day walking slowly in pain I have tried everything and everyone pt acupuncture tens etc etc. Have you thought of swimming when we can get back to normal it may be impossible just an idea, as I can’t because can’t move to get dressed dried without spasms that last hours, but I know some have said that for them it was a game changer started of just walking at first. Sorry I cannot be more help but it’s hell isnt it I have had 4 babies without pain relief and this pain is ten times worse, I hope someone comes along with some ideas. I tried an oestopath it was awful so be careful what you try

Oh that takes me back! I can't work out how to reply to you directly User14etc, your comment about childbirth is so true. At least that has an end. Gabapentin was some use to me, have you been prescribed that?
The pain was absolutely draining. I hope you get some relief soon

LadyDoc1 don’t worry I have no idea either. Yes been on Gabapentin had to stop as had problems begged doctor to let me try again but build up slower as I had definitely felt some relief from it so tried again, but no had to stop due to stomach and bowel issues that I have had all my life so what seemed like my only chance of some relief from this constant hell was over. It is awful I truly hope after all you have been through, that your pain is not terrible, it’s so hard to live like this.

I had L5/S1 discectomy and laminectomy for a giant herniation and cauda equina. Foot drop, had to drag my leg to walk, severe screaming pain to complete numbness and herniation was 15mm
Things I did post op
Walked. And walked, and walked some more. Uneven surfaces, cobbles, slopes, grass, hills. I built up to 10km
Tiny core exercises like standing on one leg, I literally googled regaining core strength exercises
(Obvs not realistic for most people) I got back on my horse in walk which really helped my core, as I was struggling with my leg control the surgeon said actually it mimics walking so told me to get back on
Got a PT for 4 rehab sessions and he gave me some exercises to do then I started lifting weights again

I'm 3 years post op this year and just get occasional back pain. Some numbness in my leg and foot but that's about it. I do remember being exhausted post op, mine was 5hrs in the end

I'd great plans for PT, that's delayed of course but no big deal in the grand scheme! It's so frustrating to be exhausted after doing something simple like emptying the dishwasher or a light tidy up, but I'm reassured from your replies it'll pick up.
Best thing I've bought is a shower stool, I'm definitely hanging on to that for good!
I find it uncomfortable to lie flat on my back, anyone else experience that? Feels like something is out of place.
I fancied going through my wardrobe and trying clothes on to decide what to donate or keep but I just can't face it, knowing I'll be in pain for days after. I really didn't appreciate how great it is to be able to move around pain free :/

The surgeon said they don't count "recovered" until 12 months, it is v slow. Yeah I remember it feeling v odd to lie on my back!
Take it slow