5 Steps To Take Before Spine Surgery
Category: Spine Surgery | Author: Stefano Sinicropi
Patients are always asking what they can do before spine surgery to ensure their operation is successful. Asking questions is a great start, and while the success of an operation is never guaranteed, there are some steps you can take prior to your operation that can make it more likely that you’re achieve the intended results. Today, we share five tips for putting yourself in the best situation to have a successful spine surgery.
Weight Management
Your weight plays a significant role in the success of your surgery. Research has shown that obese patients are much more likely to suffer setbacks during or after their operation, so take a little initiative and try to maintain a healthy weight before and after the operation. If you’re going to be unable to do a lot of physical activity after your operation, prepare some healthy meals before you go under the knife so you can easily reheat them after your surgery.
Diet/Exercise
Inflammation can cause pain after an operation, and the easiest way to prevent inflammation is by exercising and eating a healthy diet. Even if it’s not feasible to get a full workout in prior to your operation, practice some stretching or physical therapy routines to strengthen the structures around your injured spine. The stronger your spine and the supporting muscles are before your operation, the better they’ll be able to deal with the trauma of surgery after an operation.
Ask Questions
As we alluded to in the intro, asking questions is another important aspect of the pre-surgical process. Ask your surgeon about the operation, what should be expected, what life will be like after the operation, and how long you may miss work or school. Ask if there are any other operations for the same technique, if you can get by without surgery, or if a second opinion might make things clearer. The more questions you ask, the more you’ll be prepared for the operation.
Mentally Prepare
Asking questions is a key component of mentally preparing yourself for spine surgery because it helps you manage expectations. Some people have trouble coping with life after surgery because they didn’t mentally prepare for the operation. If you’re expecting to be back on your feet by the end of the week, and it turns out you need 4-6 weeks of rehab before you can return to work, it can throw you for a loop. Make sure you understand what is expected to happen, and what possible complications you could develop so nothing comes up out of the blue.
Commit To Your Rehab
Your rehab after spine surgery begins before you go under the knife. Start by learning about your rehabilitation options, and consider purchasing some equipment so you can do your therapy on your own. Sticking to your therapy schedule begins with the conscious decision to commit to your rehab before you have your surgery. Talking to your doctor about your expected rehab can allow you to visualize your rehab and progression once your surgery is complete.
For more ways to prepare for a spine operation, contact Dr. Sinicropi today.
