Do you have a herniated disk in your back? If so, you might have been given a prescription for a spine fusion soon after.
It involves placing artificial material between two herniated disks. However, it also comes with a period of rest and recovery.
Are you about to undergo spine surgery? If you are, be sure to check out this guide to see what you can and cannot do after surgery. Do this, and you’ll ensure the success of your procedure.
Do Not Try A New Diet
After spinal surgery, it is very important to support a healthy diet. However, some people may be tempted to try a new diet as part of their recovery. This is not a good idea and should be avoided.
While a nutritious diet is important for a strong recovery, one must stick to the same kinds of foods in order to avoid any potential issues related to the surgery.
Eating new, unfamiliar foods may lead to digestive problems that can disrupt the healing process. Additionally, the body is already under a great deal of strain due to the surgery and can be easily overloaded by sudden changes in diet.
Do Not Smoke
Smoking can decrease the amount of oxygen available in the body, which can make it more difficult to recover from surgery. Additionally, smoking can slow down the healing process of the spine. Smoking cessation can improve your overall health, reduce inflammation and decrease potential complications related to spine surgery.
Additional do’s after spine surgery include general activity as directed by your healthcare providers, maintaining a healthy diet, and taking all medications prescribed. Other don’ts after spine surgery include physical activities that could cause injury to the spine, such as certain sports, carrying heavy objects, or bending over.
Do Keep A Journal of Symptoms
Patients should make sure to accurately note changes in their health and record any new or existing symptoms that may be related to their spine surgery. Keeping records of pain levels, days of rest, types of movement that provoke pain, and other associated symptoms can help doctors to focus on any further diagnostic testing that may be necessary.
In this way, the journal acts as a form of evidence to further supplement anything reported or noted during doctors’ appointments. The journal can be a very effective tool in fully communicating one’s progress to the doctor and ensuring a successful recovery as well.
Do Not Be Afraid To Contact Your Doctor
Your doctor will be up to date on the specifics of your situation and recovery plan. Staying in contact with your doctor will ensure you are getting the best possible care for a successful recovery.
Also, know that the dos after surgery are just as important as the don’ts. Be sure to stick to a proper diet and exercise plan, get plenty of rest, avoid picking up heavy objects, and follow any other instructions more on spine surgery that the doctor gives you.
Take Proper Steps To Ensure Your Spine Surgery Recovery is Successful
It is important to respect the postoperative changes and to receive full and comprehensive information about the emerging symptoms and possible solutions for swift, safe, and successful recovery. Following the dos and don’ts after spine surgery will help patients in having a comfortable, safe, and expeditious recovery from back surgery. Be sure to contact your doctor with any concerns or queries you may have.
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