Anyone who undergoes back surgery will have to go through a period of recovery. It is important that you follow your doctor’s pre-operative instructions because it can affect how comfortable your recovery will be in terms of pain management and surgical outcomes.
If you are preparing for back surgery, it also pays to plan for your recovery. While each patient recovers at their own pace, here are general guidelines that can facilitate and maximize your recovery. Let’s discuss the do’s and don’ts for a successful back surgery recovery.
Do Prepare Your Home
In the first few weeks after surgery, you will experience mobility limitations because there are certain motions that you should avoid as your incision heals. Preparing your home means reconfiguring furniture and add assistive devices to make your recovery as comfortable as possible.
Clear the walkways, make sure essential items are at waist level and within easy reach, and raise your bed so it’s easy to get in and out without shifting around too much. Think of how much bending you would normally do to wear clothes and shoes, and find a workaround by choosing button-down clothing and slip-on shoes.
Don’t Do Certain Back Motions
There are certain motions you should avoid if you are recovering from any type of back surgery to avoid putting pressure on your healing spine and to keep it in a neutral position. Do not bend and twist your back or lift heavy items (nothing over 10 pounds). Practice moving without doing these motions, such as squatting when you reach for something on the floor. Better yet, purchase a reacher or grabber to pick up light items from the floor or high up shelves.
Do Help Your Body Heal
Make sure to get uninterrupted sleep while in recovery to help your body heal faster. As for safe sleeping positions, it is generally recommended to sleep on your back. It is the best position to reduce pain and avoid complications. Keep your arms at your sides. The doctor may instruct you to use an orthopedic pillow, depending on the type of surgery you had.
Don’t Become Inactive
You may think that avoiding physical activity is better for recovery but that is far from the truth. Even getting up to take short walks helps with circulation, which brings oxygen and nutrients to the area. Physical therapy begins once the incision heals. Avoid lying down most of the time, as that can cause your muscles to stiffen, which can complicate your recovery.
Do Commit to Your Rehabilitation Program
Active participation in your physical therapy is a must. For the most part, you will have to do exercises yourself at home. Physical therapy exercises work to reduce pain, build strength and endurance, improve flexibility and range of motion, and restore function. A physical therapist can also teach you how to move safely in every phase of healing to avoid accidents and complications.
While there’s a lot more you should and shouldn’t do during back surgery recovery, advice for postoperative patients is to always consult with their surgeon for any questions and concerns that may come up while in recovery and check whether it’s safe to participate in certain activities.
Back Surgery in Colorado Springs, CO
If you are considering back surgery for your spine problem, make sure to put your trust in the hands of a spine expert. Front Range Spine And Neurosurgery is a leader in minimally invasive spine surgery. Our spine surgeons focus on highly advanced techniques that help patients return to normal faster. We can help you prepare for a successful recovery and are with you every step of the way.
To schedule a consultation with one of our spine surgeons, call us today at (303) 790-1800 or use our appointment request form. We look forward to providing you with the latest treatments for a fast and comfortable recovery.
