Terri Ramsey Beavers Back surgery whether it is disc replacement or spinal fusion needs a proper recovery protocol otherwise the risk of complications increases. Unless it is a minimally invasive surgery, you need a minimum of 12-24 weeks to heal. Some surgeries can also take up to a year for complete healing to occur.
At Vertrae, a renowned neurosurgeon makes you go through some diagnostic procedures before deciding if you are the right candidate for Dayton back surgery or not. Not all back pains require surgical interventions, but if you are suffering from spinal stenosis, spinal arthritis, herniated disc, or degenerative disc disease, you will need spine surgery at some point in time.
Till the time you are in hospital, the nurse will take care of all your needs, you will be on IV fluids and you will receive pain medicines and antibiotics through the IV line. A urinary catheter will be attached so that you don’t have to move frequently for bathroom visits.
Plus, your doctor in Dayton, OH will educate you regarding home care and physical therapy as required for your condition. You will be prescribed a walker once you get home as making some movements helps in promoting healing.
At-home recovery tips
When you get back home, you are on your own apart from going to frequent follow-up visits and physical therapy sessions. If you do not have any help at home, you can ask your friends or extended family in Dayton, OH to help you with regular activities in the initial days of surgery.
You must remember the following tips that will help you in healing faster after back surgery:
- Stick to the exercises your physical therapist asks you to do. Any more and you risk getting injured, any less and you delay your recovery period.
- Walk as your therapist has taught you to in case you want to ditch the walker completely.
- Always sit with the back straight and avoid prolonged sitting. Changing postures and taking short slow walks are good to prevent blood from clotting.
- Keep yourself hydrated and include a lot of good-quality protein, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet.
- Your doctor will prescribe pain medicines and hot/cold packs for alleviating pain. Take your medicines on time.
- If bowel movement is giving you a tough time, ask your doctor for some laxatives.
- Keep yourself entertained, you can be mentally drained during the recovery period as it takes a long time before you can get back to your usual activities.
Never miss your follow-up visits and do not overexert yourself. Sleep is extremely important if you want to heal faster, provided you follow the right sleeping posture.