Spine surgery recovery time

Spine surgery can be extremely painful and can involve a prolonged recovery time. Thus, you will have to take this into account before you decide to commit to undergoing spinal surgery. However, undergoing the surgery will most likely be worth it as the surgery can help alleviate even chronic back or neck pain.Types of surgery

If there is pain in the lower back, one might undergo Lumbar Spine Surgery. Sometimes, open spine surgery is also used to alleviate pain. This surgery involves a small incision being made in the patient’s side and a series of holes being opened up along the spinal region. Recovery from this type of surgery can take a long time. Otherwise, minimal invasive surgical techniques might be employed. Expect to spend at least six months in recovery if open spine surgery is performed, while minimal invasive surgery will require about four or six weeks recovery.

If you have a slipped or herniated disc, you may wish to undergo cervical spine surgery. This operation involves the surgeon working in the neck area, which can allow good access to the spine. This surgery will be painful and when judging the recovery time, there are several factors which we need to take into account. In general, this surgery will involve at least a week’s stay in the hospital. During this period, a doctor may ask the patient to try walking. After being discharged from the hospital, a full recovery will take about five weeks. It is important not to exert too much pressure on the spine during this time, as this can potentially delay the recovery. Recovery will also depend on the success of the surgery.

Recovery

Recovery can be a hard road when it comes to spinal surgery, particularly in the case of open spinal surgery. It will be necessary to embark on a program of exercise - this may take the form of regular short walks. Increase the distance as the damage lessens. Try not to remain seated for too long, this may damage your spine. The same applies to standing - make sure to rest as much as required. Physiotherapy can help greatly when it comes to hastening recovery times.

If you experience spasms or muscular pain - especially in the legs - try to shift position. Should stiffness in the back occur, walking or showering might help to alleviate any pain that is felt. Buying and sleeping on a firm mattress will also be of great assistance to you in this regard - soft mattresses can seem comfortable, but they can be damaging to your back. Be sure to take proper care of the surgical incision. If problems such as oozing, swelling or redness occur, then you should consult the surgeon as soon as possible.