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Spine Surgery Recovery

While every patient has a different spine treatment journey, everyone’s road to recovery can be just as unique. Your recovery plan will be created with your individual needs and goals in mind. No matter what your condition, our specialists are prepared to help you recover and get back to your everyday life.

Recovery Time After Spine Surgery

Spine surgery recovery is a process that requires patience and determination. Be assured that we’re here to offer support and guidance throughout your recovery process. Spine surgery recovery expectations may differ depending on your condition and type of surgery, but most patients can expect bones to heal within 3 to 4 months after surgery. Additional recovery treatments or therapies may continue for up to 12 months.

Restrictions and Limitations After Spine Surgery

It’s important to talk to your specialist about the do’s and don'ts after spine surgery. Some daily activities, such as driving, are off-limits until your doctor gives the OK. Other restricted activities may include:

  • Lifting anything more than 10 pounds
  • Sitting for long periods of time
  • Taking a bath for the first few weeks, as the incision area should be kept dry

It’s important to reduce the stress and strain you put on your back and spine every day. Your body needs to rest and recover in order to get you back to your normal activities. It is crucial to have support during this recovery time. Enlist family members or friends to run major errands for you, pick up prescriptions or help with household responsibilities. Banner Brain & Spine is here to support you and any support system to ensure you get all the care you need. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions about everyday limitations to make sure you can recover as quickly as possible.

Therapy Options After Spine Surgery

While you recover, your doctor may recommend physical or occupational therapy to help strengthen your back and spine.

Physical therapy can help teach you how to walk, sit and move properly to keep your spine aligned and restore strength and mobility. Physical therapy focuses on reducing pain while improving movement which is crucial after spine surgery. Learn more about physical therapy

Occupational therapy can help get you back to your daily activities again. This type of therapy works on cognitive skills, sensory and physical skills. After spine surgery, it is important to work on everyday activities once your surgeon ensures you are healing properly. Learn more about occupational therapy.

The main difference between occupational therapy and physical therapy is that physical therapy treats movements the body uses and needs while occupational therapy helps to improve everyday skills and activities.

While you may feel some discomfort throughout your recovery process, it’s important to keep your doctors and therapists up to date on how you feel throughout this journey. As you regain strength and movement within your back and spine, we can help adjust therapies and recovery options to ensure you are always getting stronger. Our specialists are here to provide you with the best possible recovery to increase independence and get you back to what you love to do.