Recovering after back surgery
About 8 out of 10 people will experience back pain during their life, according to Medline Plus. Some issues can be handled with medications and exercise but other pain issues require surgery. There are many different procedures that address back pain — from removal of bone or a damaged disc to fusing together vertebrae for stability. As with any surgery, there is a time of recovery where care must be taken to achieve the best outcome. Here are some general guidelines from Medline Plus and the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons about recovering from back surgery.
Keep pain in control
Feeling that you can handle the pain may not be wise following back surgery. It is important to take action when pain is starting so that it can be controlled. Applying cold to control the pain can bring some relief since the cold will reduce swelling from the surgery. However, if the pain is from muscle tension, moist heat may work since it increases blood flow to the area. For some people, stretching, moving or a mild massage can bring relief. However, if none of these measures work, it may be time to consult your doctor to see if pain medication is needed. Studies cited by the National Institutes of Health show that pain can be detrimental to the healing process so it is important to take steps to reduce pain.
Find a balance between rest and movement
It is important to rest after surgery but staying in bed all day is not suggested. Moving around increases the blood flow, which helps with healing. Movement also helps keep arms, legs and other parts of your body from becoming too stiff. Be sure to follow the doctor’s instructions on twisting or turning your back when moving.
Accept help
There are many assistive devices to help during recovery from back surgery. Whether it is a cane, a reaching tool or a walker, use it to keep safe while your back is healing. You may also need to accept help from others for a time. Let someone else drive, fix dinner and do the laundry while you are recovering.
Exercise according to plan
The desire to get back to normal life can often lead to new problems. Your doctor will instruct you on how to gradually get back into the swing of things. Don’t do less exercise. Don’t do more exercise. Stick to the plan for the best results.
Find a way to sleep
Getting a good night’s rest can be challenging after some back surgeries. Lying flat on your back with your head elevated and a pillow under your knees can reduce stress on the lower back. Check with a doctor if you’re having difficulty finding a comfortable position for sleep. You need sleep to regain strength so make it a priority.
Practice patience
Every back surgery experience is different. Some people feel immediate relief while others need more time to heal. Don’t expect to have the same experience as your friend who had back surgery. If you feel you’re not making progress, the only one to turn to for advice is your doctor. Try to be patient during the time of healing to reduce stress.
Dealing with the unknown
Recovery after back surgery can present challenges so it is best to be prepared to address them. Instead of heading home after your hospital stay, consider recovering at Glenview Terrace where you can receive care for both the expected and the unexpected issues that arise. Attentive staff can provide a variety of pain relief options. Experienced therapists provide personalized, one-to-one therapy seven days a week. Glenview Terrace also offers fully equipped gyms to assist you in regaining your strength, balance and flexibility. All other medical issues you might have from wound care to COPD can also be monitored and managed around the clock by the professional, caring nursing staff.
What’s more, Glenview Terrace received Medicare’s highest five-star quality rating, which is just one proof of the rehabilitation center’s outstanding services, expertise and clinical outcomes.
All of this highly qualified care is delivered in an elegant setting featuring meticulously landscaped grounds and spacious, well-appointed rooms with deluxe, walk-in bathrooms. Guests during a short-term rehabilitation stay can also choose to relax in their rooms with a stunning array of amenities like concierge service, coffee and newspaper delivered every morning and dozens of cable channels with an exclusive channel featuring new movies.
Team up with the acclaimed experts at Glenview Terrace who have the proven outcomes to help you recover from back surgery or any of the other medical challenges you may face. For additional information or to arrange a tour, visit glenviewterrace.com or call 847-729-9090.