Spine surgery is a big deal. Whether having a simple discectomy or undergoing a spinal fusion, there's a lot to think about. Preparing your mind, body, and home is essential, especially for recovery.
Dr. Steven J. Svabek and his team in Coral Springs, Florida, understand the need for guidance and instruction when preparing for spine surgery. He's a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who supports spine surgery patients from initial diagnosis through recovery.
Spine surgery addresses many conditions that limit mobility and cause chronic pain. Spinal stenosis, herniated discs, and sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction are just a few conditions that lead to disability and back pain.
Symptoms that don’t respond to lifestyle modifications and conservative treatments may require spine surgery. The procedure depends on the cause of your symptoms.
Standard spine surgeries we offer include:
Recovery and procedure differ for each type of spine surgery. Knowing as much as possible about the surgery helps you prepare mentally and physically for what's to come.
The healthier you are, the better off you are during and after surgery. Tips to prepare your body include:
Spine surgery also requires mental preparation. In the weeks before the procedure, it's essential to manage stress. Lean on family and friends for support and consider adding stress-reducing activities like meditation or breathing exercises to your daily routine.
Learning as much as possible about the procedure and recovery can also prepare your mind for the upcoming weeks and months. Ask plenty of questions at your pre-surgery appointment to ensure you have all the necessary information.
Prepare your home in the weeks before the procedure so it's ready for you after spine surgery. Helpful tips include:
Remove anything around the house that could pose a tripping hazard after surgery. Pick up loose rugs, kids’ toys, and other items that could cause an injury.
After spine surgery, sitting on the toilet can be tricky. To prevent falls, purchase a toilet seat riser, grab bars, and a non-slip mat for the shower.
You may need to adjust your bed height to ensure you can get in and out easily after surgery. If you can't change the height, you may need to find an alternative until your spine heals.
After spine surgery, you don't want to bend or lift too much, so put things you use frequently within reach. Ensure your medications, the TV remote, and other essentials are handy so you don't have to move too much.
We often recommend purchasing specific items to make life easier after surgery. For example, a hand grabber, slip-on shoes, and premade meals can help.
To learn more, call the office of Steven J Svabek, DO, PA, today to schedule a spine surgery consultation, or request an appointment online.
