LUMBAR FUSION RECOVERY

LUMBAR FUSION SURGERY

Your neurosurgeon will remove bone, ligament, and disc material from the lumbar spine. Titanium spinal hardware is then placed to stabilize the vertebrae. There are many types of lumbar fusion procedures. Your recovery will vary depening on the approach used for the surgery and the extent of the surgery. In general, the recovery will be slower and longer then after other types of lumbar spine surgery.

RECOVERY GUIDE

RECOVERY TIMELINE

  • FIRST FEW DAYS

    • DAY 1: After most lumbar fusion procedures you will be observed in the hospital overnight after surgery. While in the hospital you will be assisted with pain management, mobilization, and self care by your medical team.
    • ICE: It can be very helpful to agressively use ice the first few days after surgery. Use ice packs at the site of surgery to help with pain, inflammation, and muscle soreness. Apply ice for 15 minutes every 1 to 2 hours as needed.
    • ACTIVITY: Early mobilization (walking) is recommeded to help reduce the chances of post-operative complications such as blood clots and infection. Consider using a walker or cane to help avoid falling after surgery.
    • AT HOME: You will need a ride home from the hospital. You will likely need assistance at home for the first few days or week. Prepare meals in advance and make plans to have others help you with household responsibilities.

  • WEEKS 1 - 2

    • The first two weeks after a lumbar fusion procedure can be challenging.
    • REST: As you start your recovery at home, plan to allow for adequate rest. You may have fatigue and need daily naps to catch up.
    • PAIN: The low back pain and soreness after surgery may continue to be significant. Continue to use ice packs every 1 to 2 hours for 15 minutes to help with low back pain and soreness
    • MEDS: Use pain medications as directed by your medical team. Be sure to stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet. Stool softeners should be used while taking pain medications.
    • ACTIVITY: Focus on walking at least twice per day. Avoid bending, lifting, and twisitng with the low back. Use of a grabber tool can be helpful to minimize bending with the low back.
    • BRACE: You may be fitted with a custom low back brace by your provider. If not, consider other low back braces to wear as you increase your activity.
    • WOUND: Keep the incision clean and dry. It is normal to have some numbness along the incision. If wearing a back brace, consider covering the incision with a bandage. Contact your medical team if you develop drainge from the incision or any other signs of infection.

  • MONTHS 1 - 3

    • PAIN: The pain from your surgery should improve each week after surgery but may last for 4 to 6 weeks. Consider alternating ice/heat treatments to the low back as needed.
    • PT: After post operative follow up with your provider you may benefit from starting outpatient physical therapy. Physical therapy will help to increase your mobility and strengthen the muscles in your spine.
    • ACTIVITY: Continue to avoid heavy lifting and strenous activity with your low back. Consider using a back brace as you increase your activity. Continue to use a grabber tool to limit the stress on your low back. Focus on good spinal posture. Avoid leaning forward while you walk or stand.

  • LONG TERM

    • Consider making lifestyle changes that can improve your low back health
    • Focus on good spinal posture and standing upright. Avoid leaning forward while walking or standing.
    • Avoid heaving lifting and repetitive strenous activities with your low back as much as possible
    • Focus on weight loss if needed and strengthening the muscles of the core
    • Consider using a low back brace when confronted with strenous activities
    • Discuss timing of return to sports and other activities with your medical provider
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KEY HOME RECOVERY POINTS

The recovery after lumbar fusion surgery will vary depending on the type of fusion performed and the extent of the surgery.

The low back pain and soreness can be substantial at first. You should continue to see improvement each week after surgery.

It is very important to avoid falling after your surgery. Use of a walker or cane may be needed temporarily or even permanently.

Contact your provider if you develop any of the following concerning symptoms:

  • Uncontrolled pain
  • Fever or chills
  • Drainage from the incision
  • New weakness or numbness

This guide is meant to serve as a reference for patients at Coastal Spine Institute, PC and may not be applicable to your surgery. Consult with your medical provider to determine if this guide is appropriate for you.