4 Things You Might Not Know About Spine Surgery Recovery
Category: Surgery Recovery | Author: Stefano Sinicropi
Surgical Team Working In Operating Theatre
Even with minimally invasive techniques, there’s no guarantee that your recovery after spine surgery is going to be simple and straightforward. That doesn’t mean you’re at a high risk for complications, it just means there may be more that goes into your recovery than you initially expect. Below, we share four things that you may not know about spine surgery recovery so you can ready your expectations prior to an operation.
Sleep May Be Difficult
Although sleep is considered a restful and restorative process, your spine also bears stress during the activity, which means it may be hard to fall and stay asleep. Lack of sleep can make pain worse in the morning, so strive to commit to a concentrated sleep plan after surgery. For tips on how to fall asleep and stay asleep after spine surgery, check out this related blog.
NSAIDs May Not Be Used
Talk to your surgeon about what types of medications you can safely use during your recovery. In some cases, NSAIDs like ibuprofen or aspirin may inhibit spinal tissue recovery that is needed to ensure fusion procedures heal as necessary. Don’t just assume that because you can get them without a prescription that they are safe to take after an operation. Have a conversation with your surgeon if you are considering adding another medication to your regimen.
PT Doesn’t Stand For Part Time
When it comes to physical therapy and your rehab after spine surgery, you shouldn’t expect to just go through the motions whenever you have the time for it. Make time to do your strengthening exercises each and every day, and push yourself during these sessions because this is how you’ll get back to pre-injury levels of fitness. Sometimes recovery plateaus if you don’t work hard during your rehab, so if you want to experience the best recovery after a spinal operation, give maximum effort during your physical therapy sessions.
You Might Need To Ask For Help
Nobody likes asking for help, but you may need to get used to it if you are recovering from spine surgery. Even minimally invasive operations can take a major toll on your spine, so don’t expect to be able to do all your daily tasks the day after an operation. Ask your surgeon about what areas of life may require assistance and line up help before you go under the knife. That way you’ll have peace of mind knowing that in the event that you need assistance, you’ll already have someone lined up.
