Tips for Taking Care of Yourself After Spinal Fusion Surgery
Undergoing a major surgical procedure like spinal fusion is not only a tiring physical undertaking, but it can take a toll on your mental health. It’s so important to start thinking about how you will take care of your body as you begin the recovery process once you get back home. Spinal fusion, a major procedure that permanently connects two or more vertebrae in your spine, often produces extremely effective results for patients hoping to reduce their chronic back pain. But the recovery period is perhaps just as important, and a careless blunder can negate an otherwise successful procedure. Here are a number of steps you can take to ensure that you’re on your way to a safe and speedy recovery. Strategies for Staying Healthy After Spinal Fusion Surgery Taking care of yourself after spinal surgery is important, so don’t hesitate to lean on others during this challenging stage. Having friends and family by your side will ease your anxiety and help you on the road to recovery. Likewise, it’s important to note that every case is different, so follow your surgeon’s directives to the T. These guidelines are broad recommendations that will hopefully guide you in the right direction. Sustain a healthy diet: When you’re thrown off your routine, in any situation, it’s easy to let your diet slip. After a major surgery, it’s more important than ever to give your body the nourishment it needs. Establish a balanced, low-fat diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables. Because you’ll be less active during your recovery period, refrain from high-calorie, fattening foods. And of course, drink plenty of water! Rest responsibly: Spinal fusion requires more rest than most surgeries, and just like any back injury, it is vital that you know how to position your body to prevent further damage. Your surgeon will be able to tell you exactly what sleep positions are best for your back, but it is generally advisable to keep your shoulders, upper back, and head marginally elevated. You can do so by propping up pillows, leaning against a wedge, or with an adjustable bed. Likewise, when shifting positions, roll your entire body to either side such that your back isn’t twisting on its own. Sitting in a chair can often put a strain on your lower back. If you must do so for a long period, it may be beneficial to take breaks every half-hour to stand up and walk around. Keep your knees lower than your hips, and always use a wedge. Maintain body circulation: While resting is a vital aspect of recovery, you’ll eventually want to start moving your body. It may cause you slight discomfort, but it will counteract other serious complications such as deep-vein thrombosis, a life-threatening condition in which blood clots form in one or more of the deep veins in your body. Ask your surgeon how long after surgery you should begin walking, but when the time is right, do so relatively slowly and with caution. Start