Precautionary measures at Home after a Spine Surgery
Recovery after Spine surgery is usually quick. After a diskectomy or foraminotomy types of spinal operation, you may still undergo pain, numbness, or weakness along the path of the nerve that was under imperative sensation. These symptoms should get better in two or three weeks. Recovery after laminectomy and fusion surgery is much longer. You will not be able to return to daily activities as quickly. It takes at least 4 to 5 months after Spine Surgery North Palm Beach for bones to heal well, and healing may continue for at least a year or so. If you had undergone a spinal fusion, you will probably be off work for 4 to 6 weeks if you are young and growing and your job is not very strenuous. It may take 4 to 6 months for older people with more extended surgery to get back to work. Length of recovery also rely on how bad your condition was before surgery. Some of the precautionary measures include:
1. Wound Care
Your bandages or dressing tape may fall off within 7 to 10 days. If not, you may remove them yourself if your surgeon says so. You may feel numbness or pain around your incision, and it give a tinge of red. see it every day to check if it:
- Is more red, swollen, or draining extra fluid
- Feels warm
- Begins to open up
If any of these happen, call your surgeon up.
2. Ask your surgeon when you can shower again. Check the enlisted points:
- Make sure your bathroom is safe place to go.
- Keep the incision dry for the first 5 to 10 days.
- The first time you shower, have someone along to help you.
- Ensure to tover the incision with plastic wrap.
- Never allow water from the shower head to spray the incision.
3. Avoid Riding or driving in a car:
- Do not allow yourself to drive for the first 2 weeks after surgery. After 2 weeks, you may take short trips only if your surgeon allows that.
- Go out only for short distances as a passenger in a car. If you have a long ride home from the medical care centre, stop after every 30 to 45 minutes to stretch a bit.
4. Pain Management
Your surgeon will give you a prescription for pain medicines after yo undergo a Spine Surgery North Palm Beach. Get it filled when you go home so you have it accessible. Take the medicine before the pain get along badly. If you will be doing an activity, take the medicine about half an hour before you start. Get up from a chair or bed safely. Carry out exercises that strengthen your back muscles to keep your back stable and safe.