However, spinal fusion surgery can provide much-needed relief if you are experiencing chronic back and leg pain.
Knowing how to prepare and what to expect before and after your procedure is a large part of overcoming misconceptions that might keep you from getting the care that you need.
Why You May Need Spinal Fusion
Instability in your spine leads to debilitating pain and discomfort, and sometimes conservative methods aren’t enough to get relief.
If your back has been giving you trouble for an extended period due to degenerative conditions, such as:
- Degenerative Disc Disease
- Scoliosis
- Spinal Stenosis
A spinal fusion may help soothe the issue.
Of course, being sure to receive an accurate diagnosis is critical as you do not want to commit to the surgery if you don’t need it.
Before Your Procedure
If a professional has determined that a Spinal Fusion is the best course of action for you, getting prepared for your recovery can help you deal with uneasy feelings.
One of the best ways to begin preparing is to inform trusted family and friends that you will need help once the procedure is over.
When you discharge from the hospital and continue your recovery at home, getting assistance with meals, transportation, and other daily tasks is essential to healing. Informing those closest to you ahead of time allows them to make the necessary adjustments to their schedule so they can help you.
Another way to prepare for your surgery is to make small changes to your home to help in your recovery. A great way to start is to put commonly used items in places where they are easily reached. You should not engage in twisting, bending, reaching, and lifting after surgery. Make things as easy as possible for yourself before your surgery so you can focus on recovering once you return home.
The Day of Surgery
On the day of your procedure, you will have to make sure that you don’t eat or drink in addition to arriving at the hospital 3 hours before your surgery is scheduled.
This makes time for you to get paperwork completed, in addition to receiving your preop workup.
Once you are placed under anesthesia and taken to the operating room, your procedure will last several hours.
After Surgery
Now that your operation is over, you can start the recovery process. Although everyone responds to pain differently, you can expect to experience varying levels of discomfort. Despite the pain, it is important to get out of the bed and walk a few times a day.
Continued Recovery
After discharge, you’ll have to stick to the regimen that you’ve been placed on. As you continue to recover, be sure to keep up with your pain medicine, activity levels, and incision care.
After spinal surgery, most people have to miss a few weeks of work before they can return to duty. Depending on the nature of your job, there is the possibility of having to work with restrictions as your recovery continues.
Be sure to take care of your body to avoid creating extra discomfort.
If you suffer from chronic back pain, we at Texas Neurosurgery are here to help you. Schedule a consultation by calling us at (214) 823-2052.
