The Do’s and Don’ts after Spine Surgery

Written by - Reviewed by Consumer Health Digest Team

Published: May 20, 2018 | Last Updated: Aug 5, 2019

The Do's and Don'ts after Spine Surgery

Undergoing surgery is no laughing matter. And the pain you’ve been in to warrant surgery is equally as serious. After you’ve undergone back surgery, the first thing you’ll probably want to do is return to your “normal” life.

Unfortunately, there is still work to be done.

After your surgical procedure, there are still certain rules you must follow in order to feel the full effects of your procedure. So, if you want to get back to your life quickly, take note of these dos and don’ts for post-surgical living.

Do’s

Following surgery, you will want to surround yourself with all the things you know you’ll need in order to not push your recovery too quickly. Here are a few tips to help keep you nice and comfy during your recovery.

  • Move your bedroom to the first level of your living space to reduce any need to climb stairs.
  • Consider purchasing a “grabber”, which will help you pick up light things off the ground without needing to bend over.
  • If you are told to put heat on your back, use an electric heating pad to minimize the amount of times you have to get up.
  • Showering will be important to help keep the incision site clean, so prior to surgery spend a few minutes examining your shower to determine the best way to get in and out of it after your procedure.
  • Since you won’t be able to twist, purchase a loofa sponge with a long handle so that you can reach your back without breaking the rules.
  • You may also want to invest in a mini-fridge to keep quick snacks and possibly hold a cold compress for the first few days following surgery.

Dos and Donts After Spine Surgery

Don’ts

Even with the most minimally invasive surgeries, such as the AccuraScope. A procedure for example, your movement will be restricted after surgery. In fact, your doctor will probably recommend you avoid twisting, bending and lifting for at least several days up to weeks.

No matter what kind of surgery you’ve undergone, your body has experienced some level of trauma and needs to be taken care of. The most important thing to do is to follow your doctor’s instructions. This may include:

  • Not lifting anything heavier than ten pounds for a certain amount of time
  • Avoiding bending or twisting
  • Not driving for up to two weeks

All of these restrictions may seem a bit much to you now, but trust me; the intentions behind them are for the best. You’ve probably been in pain for a long period of time in order to warrant a surgical procedure, and the last thing you want to do is prolong the amount of time you are in pain.

By following the doctor’s orders and taking it easy for a week or two, you will notice the benefits of your surgery faster, and will be back to the “normal you” in no time. Remember, the more you push it, the longer your body will take to recover.

While it may be difficult to let others help you, and take a prolonged break on the couch, pushing your recovery too quickly will make life far more difficult. Listen to your body and progress at a safe speed. If it hurts, you’re trying too hard and should ease up on what you are doing. And always contact your physician if you have any questions or concerns after your surgery. The most important thing is your health, and making sure you’re recovering at a safe speed.

View All