Recovery from Lumbar Fusion

“Yikes! I’m having back surgery! Then what?”

Lest you’re wondering what recovering from back surgery is like, here’s an idea of what to expect. Some of it may surprise you – even pleasantly!

After you get home from the hospital . . .

Which you were in for probably three to four days, you’ll need to take it easy for at least a month or six weeks. But taking it easy doesn’t mean staying bedridden. While many people who’ve just had back surgery are afraid to move at all for fear of defusing the fusion, it’s not a good idea to be completely immobile. The smaller muscles in the back are critical to supporting the spine, so it’s best to make sure they stay flexible and don’t stiffen up. Doing very gentle exercises to keep the blood flowing and bringing oxygen to those muscles – we’re talking the core back, abdominal, and hip muscles – will help you move better overall and heal faster.

Don’t overdo it!

While it is encouraged to do non-stressful exercises during your recovery period, you do need to make sure you’re not overly-enthusiastic and aggressive about it. Take it easy. No bending, lifting, or twisting, even if you have been a triathlete for the past 20 years.

Brace yourself

It’s possible your doctor may think it’s a good idea for you to wear a brace for a while after your surgery, to make sure your newly fused spine stays aligned. After about a month, you may also take part in physical therapy, where you’ll be taught how to do normal, every-day activities in a way that will keep your spine nice and straight.

“So when will I be back to my regular routine?

It depends on how severe your surgery was and what your “regular routine” is. Many people can return to a desk job after four to six weeks. Those who are required to be physically active on the job need to wait a little longer – like four to six months post-surgery. Full recovery generally takes between three and six months, depending on your age, your physical condition, and how much activity is included in your daily life.