Your back pain persists, despite months (and possibly years) of treatment with heating pads, medications and exercises. So, your orthopedic surgeon has recommended spine surgery to find relief. As you look forward to the date of your surgery, prepare yourself for what to expect as your spine recovers.
“It’s important to remember that no two patients experience surgery and spine recovery in the exact same way,” says Dr. Andrew Castro, board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon at Beaufort Memorial. “Paying attention to your body and closely following the instructions from your care team can help you make a smooth and complete recovery.”
Read More: Coping With Chronic Back Pain
Q: Will I Be on Bed Rest After Spine Surgery?
A: The amount of bed rest you’ll need post-surgery will depend on the procedure you had.
Decompression procedures, artificial disc replacement, kyphoplasty or most cervical procedures, for example, typically do not require prolonged bed rest. In fact, these procedures are designed to get patients up and active as soon as possible. Your care team may encourage you to get up and move within hours of your surgical procedure and take short walks.
Recovery after other spinal procedures, including lumbar spinal fusion, typically takes longer. During your hospital stay, a physical therapist may teach you exercises that will help you recover and will likely encourage you to get on your feet every day. A reasonable goal is walking up to a mile a day four weeks after surgery.
Although you may not be restricted to bed rest, you will need to limit certain movements, including twisting, bending and lifting heavy objects, in the weeks after surgery.
Read More: Back Pain: Is It Something Serious?
Q: How Long Does Pain Last After Surgery?
A: Every patient has a unique pain threshold. When recovering after a spinal procedure, there’s a key rule you should follow: Pay close attention to how you feel. Describe any pain and discomfort you have to your care team, who can provide pain control solutions if needed.
Most people notice pain and stiffness in the hours and days after surgery. Your doctor may prescribe pain medication for the first few days after your procedure. These medications will be tapered down over the days to weeks following surgery. Some prescription pain medicines can have unwanted side effects, so as your pain subsides, your doctor may recommend a less powerful prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications.
Follow your provider’s instructions carefully. Do not take more than recommended, even if you’re taking an OTC medication. If you aren’t experiencing relief, talk with your care team about other options.
Q: When Can I Resume Daily Activities?
A: This is another component of your recovery that will depend heavily on the type of surgery you have. A decompression procedure, for example, will likely require a shorter recovery than spinal fusion surgery.
During physical therapy, you will learn exercises to help regain your mobility, and, as in the hospital, you should walk a little bit each day. It may take a month or longer before you can return to work, depending on how physically demanding your job is.
Don’t rush your healing process. Carefully follow your care team’s instructions on when and how to resume work and regular daily activities. It may take a bit before you can get back to strenuous activities.
Q: What Else Should I Know About Spine Recovery?
A: Spine surgeries are effective and safe, but as with any surgical procedure, there’s always a small potential for complications.
Be alert to unusual symptoms after surgery, particularly after you’re discharged from the hospital. In particular, watch for signs of a blood clot, which can include shortness of breath, skin warmth, redness or swelling, lightheadedness, and tenderness. Regularly examine your incisions (or have a loved one do so) to ensure there are no signs of infection at the surgical site.
Certain pain medications can cause constipation, nausea and other gastrointestinal issues. Discuss those and other side effects with your medical provider so he or she can adjust your medications if necessary.
Your spine supports your entire body and plays a major role in your ability to do the things you love, so having spine surgery will slow you down. Be patient with your recovery and talk with your care team if you experience anything that concerns you.
Wondering if spine surgery is an option for treating recurrent back pain? Request an appointment with a back pain specialist.
