Mercedes: at 78, lumbar stenosis surgery allowed her to walk the next day and return to sport

An active sporting life brought to a sudden halt

Mercedes is 78 years old, retired, and has always enjoyed enviable health and an active lifestyle. A lifelong sportswoman, she tends to feel unwell if she does not exercise. That is why the blow was so hard when, in 2023, everything stopped abruptly.

"I was rooted to the spot. I could not move."

Some earlier X-rays had already shown some wear at L4 and L5, but Mercedes was still living normally. Until overexertion with excess weight triggered a condition that forced her to get around on crutches.

The diagnosis: severe spinal canal stenosis

The episode occurred in summer, on the Costa Brava. She went to A&E thinking they would run some tests, but received only medication, which had no effect. Back in Barcelona the real investigations began, revealing severe spinal canal stenosis at L3-L4, as well as other affected vertebrae.

Day-to-day life had become very difficult. On top of an already unstable, almost numb foot, there was intense pain that prevented her from walking and meant she always needed someone with her.

"You had to warn people about everything. I could not walk, it was very painful. You feel frustrated because you can see it is not getting better."

Meeting Dr. Ferrés: clear information and trust

The relationship with Dr. Ferrés made all the difference. Mercedes describes him as warm, very attentive and extraordinarily well-informed. At the first appointment the specialist insisted on carrying out all the necessary tests before giving an opinion; at the next, he explained the diagnosis in full detail using the imaging.

"Using the screen he gave me all the explanations. He showed me the whole spine, how it was and everything that needed to be done."

The message was clear: surgery was needed, and only what was strictly necessary would be done so that she could return to normal life.

The operation and a very rapid post-operative course

Mercedes went into theatre calmly and the experience was very good. The recovery proved especially quick.

"The next day I was already walking. Even before setting foot on the ground I felt brilliant."

She needed almost no medication and had no critical week. She soon resumed activity, incorporating gentle exercises at the gym, and her family were by her side throughout.

Independence regained and back to sport

Today Mercedes is very well and has fully recovered her independence. She returned to physical activity following the operation and goes about her life normally, knowing where her limits lie.

"I can see that I can do everything without overdoing it. My independence has been recovered for quite some time."

An unreserved recommendation

Mercedes recommends Dr. Ferrés whenever she can. In fact, an acquaintance she recommended was delighted, and everyone who sees her recovered asks where she had the operation and who performed it.

"I give everyone the doctor's name, because he has been excellent. If I had to have surgery again, I would put myself in his hands."