You’ve undergone surgery on your lumbar spine, and now you face the challenge of recovery. This can be a complex, multi-stage process, but I know how to help. In my 20 years as a rehabilitation physician, I’ve helped many people return to active life after similar surgeries. In this article, I’ll share my knowledge and experience to help you successfully navigate all stages of rehabilitation.
After spinal surgery, the following is prohibited
Undergoing surgery on the lumbar spine requires adherence to certain restrictions and rules in the rehabilitation period. This is necessary for safety and to accelerate the recovery process. Here are some of the main restrictions.
In the early rehabilitation period:
Sitting: Surgery on the lumbar region can lead to the increased pressure on the spine when sitting. Therefore, it is better to avoid sitting for extended periods for the first few weeks after surgery.
Traveling by transport while seated: Possible jolts and vibrations can increase discomfort and risk of injury.
Lifting weights of more than 3-5 kg: Such a load can increase pressure on the spine and cause pain or injury.
Sharp, deep and twisting movements in the spine, including bending forward and sideways: These movements can increase the risk of injury.
Physical loads without a corset: A corset helps stabilize the spine and reduces the risk of injury.
Sport games and cycling: These activities can cause sudden movements or jolts, which can be harmful in the early rehabilitation period.
Massage and manual therapy: Possible impact on the spine can increase the risk of injury.
Smoking and alcohol consumption: This can slow down the recovery process and increase the risk of complications.
In the late rehabilitation period:
Staying in a forced position, sitting and standing for a long time: This can increase the load on the spine and cause pain.
Physical load without prior warm-up of the back muscles: Warming up helps prepare the muscles and reduces the risk of injury.
Long trips in motor transport: A prolonged sitting position can increase pressure on the spine.
Jumping from height: Such actions can increase the risk of injury.
Lifting more than 5-8 kg: Lifting weights can increase the load on the spine and cause pain.
Hypothermia of the operative intervention area: This can lead to inflammation and other problems.
Long-term wearing of a corset: If the corset is worn too long, it can lead to atrophy of the back muscles.
Remember, your recovery is a process that requires time and patience. Following these recommendations will help facilitate your recovery and reduce the risk of potential complications.
Rehabilitation after lumbar spine surgery
Rehabilitation after lumbar spine surgery is a comprehensive and targeted process that begins immediately after the surgical intervention and is aimed at restoring the functions of the back and the general state of health.
It includes various therapies and methods such as physical therapy, drug treatment, psychological support, and lifestyle changes, including diet and rest. This process requires active patient participation, and its success largely depends on the patient’s desire to restore their health and quality of life.
The goal of rehabilitation is to help patients return to normal life, minimize or eliminate pain, improve mobility and flexibility, strengthen back and core muscles, and also to train correct movements and postures to protect the spine from further injuries.
It is important to understand that the rehabilitation process is individual and depends on the type of surgery, the patient’s general health, age, profession, lifestyle, and many other factors. The rehabilitation program can vary from person to person and should be developed by specialists taking into account all these factors.
Thus, rehabilitation after lumbar spine surgery is not just a set of exercises or medical procedures. It is a deeply individualized plan that requires patient involvement, a professional approach from specialists, and consistent implementation to achieve optimal recovery results.
Why rehabilitation is important?
Rehabilitation is a key stage in the recovery process after lumbar spine surgery. Without it, the entire recovery process can be ineffective, and even the most successful surgery may not bring the expected result. Here are some key reasons why rehabilitation is so important:
Restoration of functions: After spinal surgery, many patients may experience limited movement, muscle weakness, or pain. Rehabilitation helps to restore normal functions, improving flexibility and muscle strength.
Reducing pain: With various therapeutic methods such as physiotherapy, strengthening exercises and stretches, rehabilitation helps to reduce the intensity of pain and improve patient comfort.
Preventing further health problems: Adequate rehabilitation can prevent the onset of chronic pain and further spine problems, such as hernias or spinal canal stenosis.
Return to normal life: The goal of rehabilitation is not only to improve the physical condition of the patient, but also to return them to normal life. This may include returning to work, sports, or other activities that were part of the patient’s life before the surgery.
Psychological support: The recovery period can be difficult not only physically, but also emotionally. The psychological support provided by rehabilitation helps patients cope with changes in their lives, reduces stress and anxiety, and improves general emotional condition.
In general, rehabilitation is an integral part of recovery after lumbar spine surgery, and its importance cannot be overstated.
Postoperative period
What to expect after surgery?
Understanding what to expect after lumbar spine surgery can help you better prepare for the recovery process. Here are some key points to consider:
Pain and discomfort: Immediately after surgery, it is normal to experience some pain in the area of the operation. You will be offered pain medication to alleviate these symptoms.
Activity restrictions: Doctors usually recommend limiting physical activity for some time after the surgery. This may include sitting, lifting weights, and performing certain movements. However, active movement within acceptable loads is an important part of rehabilitation.
Symptom monitoring: You will need to closely monitor your condition to detect any signs of complications, such as increased pain, sensitivity or movement disturbances, fever, swelling or redness in the operation area.
Rehabilitation sessions: Depending on the nature of the surgery and your general health condition, rehabilitation may begin as early as the first days after surgery. It may include physical therapy, stretching and strengthening exercises, as well as pain relief methods.
Psychological aspects: The recovery period can be emotionally challenging. Fear, anxiety, hesitation can arise during recovery. Therefore, it’s important to prepare for this in advance, and not to hesitate seeking psychological support when necessary.
Returning to normal life: Recovery after lumbar spine surgery is a process. Returning to work, driving, doing household chores and other usual activities occurs gradually and depends on the nature of the surgery, your health condition, and progress in rehabilitation.
Remember, every person and every surgery is unique. What’s normal for one person may not suit another. Always follow your doctor’s recommendations and report any changes in your condition to them.
Medical recommendations and monitoring
The doctor may prescribe medications to reduce pain and inflammation, as well as recommend physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises. Regular check-ups will allow monitoring of the recovery process and, if necessary, adjusting the treatment plan.
Principles and stages of rehabilitation
Early stage of rehabilitation
The early stage of rehabilitation usually begins immediately after surgery and continues for the first few weeks. This period is critically important for ensuring adequate wound healing, preventing complications, and maintaining general health. Here are some of the main aspects of early rehabilitation:
Pain control: Pain after surgery is normal. Analgesics will be prescribed to help you cope with the pain syndrome. This is very important because pain can reduce motivation for activity and hinder the recovery process.
Mobilization: Depending on the nature of the surgery and your condition, the clinic staff may encourage you to be active as early as possible. This can start with simple movements in bed, gradually moving to walking with support.
Wound care: Care of the surgical site is important for preventing infection and promoting adequate healing. This can include regular dressing changes and monitoring the wound condition of the.
Physiotherapy: Physical therapy sessions begin at the early stages of rehabilitation. This may include gentle exercises to maintain range of motion, improve blood circulation, and prevent complications such as deep vein thrombosis.
Nutritional support: Your nutritional needs increase during the recovery period. Adequate nutrition can promote tissue healing, maintain energy, and overall health.
Psychological support: The postoperative period can be difficult not only physically but also emotionally. The support of loved ones and, if necessary, a professional psychologist can be invaluable during this period.
During the early stage of rehabilitation, it is very important to follow all medical recommendations and regularly consult with a doctor.
Intermediate stage of rehabilitation
The intermediate stage of rehabilitation usually begins after the primary wounds begin to heal and pain becomes more manageable. This stage may begin approximately 2-6 weeks after surgery and continue for several months. Here are some key aspects of the middle stage of rehabilitation:
Increasing physical activity: At this stage, you’ll likely be able to increase your level of physical activity. A physiotherapist may recommend exercises to strengthen your back and core muscles, improve balance, and maintain flexibility and range of motion.
Self-care: As you become more active and independent, you will need to learn to care for yourself independently. This may include managing pain symptoms, caring for the wound, and performing exercises independently.
Progress evaluation: At this stage, it’s important to evaluate your progress. Your doctor or physiotherapist can help you track improvements and identify areas that require additional work.
Balanced nutrition: Proper nutrition continues to play a key role in the recovery process. Consuming sufficient protein, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can promote healing and maintain energy.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle: This may include abstaining from smoking and moderate alcohol consumption, getting enough sleep, and reducing stress.
The intermediate stage of rehabilitation is a time when you can start to see significant improvements in your condition. It’s important to maintain motivation and patience as the recovery process can be slow and require consistent effort.
Late stage of rehabilitation
The late stage of rehabilitation is the final stage of recovery after lumbar spine surgery. This stage usually begins a few months after surgery and can continue for a year or more. The main goal during this period is to maintain the progress achieved at the previous stages and return to full activity. Here are some key aspects of the late stage of rehabilitation:
Increasing activity levels: Your level of physical activity should continue to increase at this stage, and you should be able to return to most of your usual activities. This can include returning to work, engaging in favorite sports, or simply returning to normal home life.
Maintaining spinal health: It’s very important to continue strengthening your back and core muscles, maintain flexibility, and manage any remaining symptoms. This will help prevent further spinal issues.
Regular medical monitoring: In the late stages of rehabilitation, you should continue regular visits to the doctor to evaluate your progress. Your doctor can help you adapt your rehabilitation plan according to your needs and provide further support.
Psychological wellbeing: It’s important to care not only for your physical health but also your psychological wellbeing. Providing support, managing stress, and maintaining positive thinking can contribute to a successful recovery.
Healthy Lifestyle: The same principles of a healthy lifestyle that were important in the early stages of recovery, such as a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and non-smoking, remain relevant at the later stages of rehabilitation.
The late stage of rehabilitation is a time period when you can start to evaluate the overall outcome of your recovery and determine long-term goals for your health and well-being.
Video: “Rehabilitation after lumbar spine surgery”
For additional information about the rehabilitation after lumber spin surgery you can watch a video demonstrating exercises and rehabilitation recommendations.
Physical Rehabilitation
The Importance of Physical Therapy in Rehabilitation
Physical therapy plays a key role in the recovery process after lumbar spine surgery. Without effective and targeted exercises, the recovery process may slow down, and the risk of complications and recurring injuries may increase.
The main benefits of physical therapy in rehabilitation after spine surgery include:
Improving mobility and flexibility: Physical therapy helps improve the mobility and flexibility of the spine and surrounding muscles. This is especially important after surgery, when mobility may be limited due to pain or fear of movement.
Strengthening muscles: Targeted exercises help strengthen the back and core muscles that support the spine. This helps to reduce the load on the spine and reduce the risk of re-injury.
Reducing pain: Physical therapy can help reduce pain after surgery. Exercises can help improve blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and accelerate the tissue healing process.
Returning to normal life: Physical therapy helps you return to normal life, training correct movements and postures to avoid unnecessary stress on the spine.
Preventing further problems: Regular physical therapy helps prevent further spine problems, improving overall physical fitness and maintaining spinal health.
It is important to remember that the effectiveness of physical therapy largely depends on your own participation and perseverance. Consistency and patience are key success factors.
Types of Exercises and Their Importance
Before starting any physical activity after spine surgery, be sure to consult with a doctor or physiotherapist. They can offer you specially adapted exercises and make sure they are safe for your specific condition. Here are some common exercises that may be included in the rehabilitation program.
Chest Expansion Exercises
Lying on your back, take a deep breath to expand your chest, then exhale slowly. This will help improve overall flexibility and breathing.
Leg Lift Exercises
Lying on your back, raise and lower one leg, keeping it straight. Then repeat with the other leg. This exercise will help strengthen your core and back muscles.
Jogging in Place
Rising onto your toes, lift your knees high, alternating, as if jogging in place. This exercise will help strengthen your leg muscles and improve balance.
Forward Bends
Sitting on a chair, slowly lean forward, trying to reach the floor with your hands. This exercise will help increase spine flexibility.
Trunk Twists
Sitting upright on a chair, slowly twist your torso to the left and right. This exercise will help improve spinal mobility.
Cat-Cow Exercise
On your hands and knees, slowly arch and straighten your back, like a cat. This exercise will help increase spine flexibility and strength.
Static Balance Exercises
Standing on one leg, try to maintain balance for 30 seconds. Then switch legs. This exercise will help strengthen your leg muscles and improve overall balance.
Bridge Exercise
Lying on your back, raise your pelvis and clench your buttocks. Hold the position for a few seconds, then lower your pelvis back down. This exercise will help strengthen your buttocks and back muscles.
Remember, the quality of the exercises is much more important than the quantity. Never exceed your capabilities and always listen to your body. If you feel pain while doing exercises, immediately stop and seek medical advice.
Dietary and Rest Regime
Importance of Balanced Nutrition
Adequate nutrition plays a vital role in the rehabilitation process after spine surgery. Maintaining a balanced diet helps improve general health, enhances immunity, supports bone and muscle health, and also helps to reduce inflammation and pain.
Here are some key foods to include in your nutritious diet:
Protein-rich foods: Protein is necessary for tissue growth and repair. Include protein from various sources such as meat, fish, eggs, dairy, and legumes in your diet.
Vegetables and fruits: They are rich in vitamins and minerals that promote general health and recovery. They also contain antioxidants that help manage
Whole grains: They contain many B vitamins, which are important for nerve health and tissue recovery.
Healthy fats: Foods like nuts, seeds, avocado, and fish are rich in healthy fats that can help reduce inflammation.
Calcium and Vitamin D: These nutrients are important for bone health. Calcium-rich foods include dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and some types of fish such as sardines and salmon. Vitamin D can be obtained from foods like fatty fish, eggs, and dairy products, as well as from sunlight.
Lots of water: Staying well hydrated is important for overall health and recovery.
Remember that each body is unique, and what works well for one person may not work for another. It’s always best to discuss your dietary plan with a dietitian or doctor.
Role of Quality Sleep and Rest
Sleep and rest are crucial in the rehabilitation process after lumbar spine surgery. During the sleep, your body works on recovery and cell repair, including the cells in the surgical area. Proper rest helps reduce pain, improves mood, and enhances overall quality of life.
Recovery: During sleep, your body releases growth hormones that aid in repairing damaged tissues. This is critically important after surgery when your tissues need repair and recovery.
Pain reduction: Some research has shown that people who get enough sleep may have lower pain intensity. This is because sleep can influence your pain receptors.
Mood improvement: Sleep also influences your emotional condition. Lack of sleep can cause irritability, anxiety, and depression. Adequate rest helps improve mood and overall quality of life.
Energy boost: Good sleep is essential to maintaining energy levels throughout the day. This is especially important during rehabilitation when you need to perform the recommended exercises and stay active.
Maintaining a healthy immune system: Sleep is crucial for supporting the immune system, which plays a vital role in the recovery process after surgery.
To improve sleep quality, follow some simple recommendations:
establish a regular sleep schedule;
create a calm and comfortable sleeping environment;
avoid caffeine and heavy food before sleep and engage in light mild exercises or relaxing techniques, such as meditation or breathing exercises, before sleep.
Medication Support
Necessary Medications and Their Actions
After lumbar spine surgery, doctors usually prescribe several types of medications for different purposes – pain relief, preventing inflammation, stimulating tissue regeneration, and supporting general health condition.
Pain Relievers (Analgesics): After surgery, pain is normal that may persist for some time. Medications such as Paracetamol, Nurofen (ibuprofen), or stronger drugs like Tramadol, will help alleviate the pain.
Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These medications help reduce inflammation in the surgical area. Examples include Diclofenac, Ibuprofen, Nimesulide.
Muscle relaxants: Muscle relaxants help to relax tense muscles around the surgical site. They help relieve painful symptoms and improve mobility. Examples include Midocalm or Sirdalud.
Medications for spinal health: Specific drugs such as Alflutop or Teraflex, contain chondroitin and glucosamine, which help in the restoration of cartilage tissue and improve joint function.
Vitamins and minerals: Vitamin and mineral complexes like Complivit or Supradin, provide the necessary nutrients to facilitate the recovery process.
Antithrombotic drugs: For example, Xarelto or Trental. These drugs improve blood microcirculation and prevent the formation of clots.
Note: All mentioned drugs should be prescribed by a doctor, and their use mustbe they should be taken under his supervision. It is not recommended to start or stop taking medications on your own, as this may lead to the risk of side effects or complications.
Possible Side Effects
Medications prescribed after surgery on the lumbar spine are usually effective and safe, but like any drug, can cause side effects.
Pain relievers (analgesics)
May cause nausea, vomiting, constipation, headaches, drowsiness, and dizziness. Prolonged use may lead to addiction.
Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Can cause gastrointestinal problems, such as dyspepsia, ulcers in the stomach or intestines, bleeding. Some people may experience allergic reactions.
Muscle relaxants
May cause drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, impaired coordination.
Spinal health medications
Side effects are rare but can include dyspepsia, allergic reactions, abdominal pain.
Vitamins and minerals
When following the recommended doses, side effects are rare. However, exceeding the dosage may result in symptoms of hypervitaminosis or intolerance.
Antithrombotic drugs
May cause bleeding, headaches, dizziness, allergic reactions.
If you notice any side effects or unforeseen reactions to the medications, you should immediately inform your doctor.
Psychological Rehabilitation
Role of Psychological Support
The role of psychological support in the rehabilitation process following a lumbar spine surgery cannot be overstated. This is a period of intense physical and emotional stress for the patient. Psychological support helps the patient cope with these difficulties, adapt to new living conditions, and actively participate in the rehabilitation process.
Here are the main aspects of psychological support during rehabilitation:
Reducing stress and anxiety levels: Fear and self-doubt can seriously hinder the rehabilitation process. A psychologist can help the patient manage these emotions through relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, meditation, and other methods.
Supporting motivation: The rehabilitation period requires patience and diligence from the patient. A psychologist can help maintain motivation by setting realistic goals and tracking progress in achieving these goals.
Helping in adaptation: A psychologist can help the patient adapt to changes in body composition and lifestyle associated with surgery. This may include training new self-care skills, discussing issues related to work or family life, and training stress coping methods.
Improving social interaction: It’s important to help the patient maintain positive relationships with loved ones, which also helps in recovery. A psychologist can suggest methods to improve communication and conflict management.
Maintaining a positive mood and self-esteem: A psychologist can work on strengthening the patient’s self-esteem, helping them to perceive themselves as full-fledged, despite the limitations after surgery.
Psychological support should be integrated into a comprehensive rehabilitation plan, which includes medical treatment, physical therapy, and dietary changes.
Ways to Manage Stress and Anxiety
Managing stress and anxiety is important not only for mental health but also for successful rehabilitation after lumbar spine surgery. Constant stress and anxiety can slow the recovery process, worsen overall general well-being, and intensify pain sensations. There are various strategies and techniques to help manage stress and anxiety:
Relaxation techniques: They help reduce stress and anxiety levels, relax muscles, and improve mood. These can be breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, meditation, yoga, or aromatherapy.
Physical activity: Moderate physical activity can help reduce stress levels, improve mood, and promote better sleep. Exercises should be adapted to the health condition and recommended by a specialist.
Proper nutrition: A healthy diet can help manage stress levels. Some foods, such as dark chocolate, nuts, green tea, omega-3 fatty acids (for example, in fish), can help reduce stress levels.
Sufficient rest and sleep: Good sleep is important for body recovery and stress reduction. Adequate regulation of the daily routine, a comfortable sleeping place, and avoidance of gadgets before sleep can help improve sleep quality.
Social support: Communication with loved ones, friends, or participation in group activities can help cope with stress and anxiety.
Professional psychological help: If stress or anxiety become overwhelming, it is necessary to seek professional help. Psychologists or psychotherapists can offer more specialized stress management methods, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, which helps change negative thinking patterns and behavior.
It should be remembered that everyone is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. It is important to find the strategies and techniques that work best for you.
Follow all medical recommendations and be attentive to your condition.
Returning to Work and Physical Activity
How to Return to Work Smoothly
Returning to work after surgery on the lumbar spine is an important stage of rehabilitation. This process should be gradual and manageable to minimize the risk of exacerbating pain and discomfort.
Planning: Discuss your return-to-work plan with your doctor. The specialist may give you recommendations regarding when you will be ready to return and what limitations you should consider.
Partial return: You may want to start with a part-time workday or reduce the number of working days per week so that your body can gradually get used to the workload.
Breaks: Ensure regular breaks during work for rest and exercises, which will help reduce tension and fatigue.
Proper posture: Maintaining the correct posture at the workplace is very important. It may be helpful to use ergonomic devices, such as special chairs or footrests, to provide proper spinal support.
Workplace adaptation: Your employer may make some changes at your workplace to reduce physical strain on your spine. This may include using lifts or special equipment, changing the height of the table or chair, etc.
Psychological support: Returning to work after surgery can be stressful, so psychological support from colleagues, management, and family can be very helpful.
Always communicate with your doctor or physiotherapist about any pain or problems that arise when returning to work. It’s important to remember that health should always come first.
Conclusion
Rehabilitation after surgery on the lumbar spine is a complex and multifactorial process that requires time, patience, and active patient participation. It includes not only physical therapy and medical measures, but also consideration of the patient’s psychological condition, quality rest and sleep, balanced nutrition, and the use of necessary drugs.
It’s important to understand that each body is unique, and it’s impossible to predict accurately how the recovery process will go. However, following all the doctor’s recommendations and actively participating in the rehabilitation process will help maximize the possibility of full and quick recovery.
Remember that the return to normal life, including work, should be gradual and under the control of specialists. The use of recovery exercises developed by professionals will be invaluable help on the way to recovery.
If you want to see how these exercises are performed, you can watch the Video exercises for the recovery of the lumbar spine on our website. This will help you better understand how to perform each exercise properly and avoid possible mistakes. Remember, your health is your responsibility, and you have all the necessary resources to maintain it!
Maintaining spinal health in the future
Maintaining spinal health is important to prevent future problems. Follow all the doctor’s recommendations, maintain physical activity, and a healthy lifestyle.
Remember that your health is an investment in the future. If you want to see how to perform properly exercises for recovery after surgery, be sure to watch this video.
Check out the demo version of our sets of exercises for the Lumbar spine on YouTube.
1: What additional methods or procedures can facilitate the recovery process after surgery?
In addition to the methods already described in the article, such as physiotherapy, balanced nutrition, and quality sleep, you can also use methods such as electrical muscle stimulation, aqua aerobics, therapeutic yoga, and acupuncture. They contribute to muscle recovery and the improved blood circulation.
2: How to maintain psychological stability during the rehabilitation process? Which specialists can help with this?
It’s important to maintain positive thinking, emotional health during rehabilitation, and belief in speedy recovery. Psychologists and psychotherapists can help with this, who can offer strategies for coping with stress and anxiety, such as meditation practice or relaxation techniques.
3: How to reduce physical discomfort or pain during the rehabilitation process?
Various methods can be used to reduce pain or discomfort during rehabilitation, such as taking analgesics (based on doctor’s recommendation), applying ice to the surgical area, regular exercises, and relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation.
